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Eight teams, six-week window: PSL 12 set to run from March 18 to May 2

The 12th edition of the Pakistan Super League will be held from March 18 to May 2 next year, with the tournament retaining its expanded eight-team format for a second successive season. The dates were finalised at the PSL Governing Council meeting in London on September 1, attended by owners and representatives of all eight franchises. The eight-team format was introduced in PSL 11, which also marked the league's first players' auction, replacing the draft system. The final at Gaddafi Stadium drew 32,461 spectators, with Peshawar Zalmi ending a nine-year wait for the title by beating Hyderabad Kingsmen in May. The announcement of the dates will now set the ball rolling for a series of key events, including direct signings, retention announcements, the trade window and the players' auction. PSL 11 showed the world what this league is capable of -- thrilling moments that had the whole nation transfixed, record crowds, record broadcasts. PSL 12 will raise the bar further, said Paki

Business Standard 8 Oct 2026 11:59 am

Hopes, Haddin Move On From Punjab Kings, Franchise To Search For Three Roles

Punjab Kings: Australian coaches James Hopes and Brad Haddin have moved on from IPL franchise Punjab Kings following Sairaj Bahutule's exit, IANS has learnt. Hopes served as the fast-bowling coach of the Ricky Ponting-led support staff, while Haddin was the fielding coach with the Kings. The two have landed jobs in state teams in Australia, and PBKS will now have to find three replacements before the next season after Bahutule also left his spin-bowling coach role to join the Indian team as spin coach under Gautam Gambhir. Yes, Haddin and Hopes have moved on from Punjab Kings. After IPL 2026, they joined local state teams in Australia as head coaches. Hopes has taken over as Queensland head coach and will hold the same position in BBL side Brisbane Heat. Haddin, meanwhile, has taken over as NSW men's head coach and could get a BBL coaching role, an IPL source told IANS. Meanwhile, the source added that the franchise will hunt for the coaches and a decision will be taken before the auction takes place in December. A call on three new PBKS coaches is expected to come before the IPL auction happens in December. They are looking at one Indian and two overseas coaches to complete their support staff for IPL 2027, it added. Hopes joined the PBKS set-up in late 2024 after Ponting was roped in as head coach. He was in Ponting's backroom staff in Delhi Capitals too. Meanwhile, Haddin was retained by the Kings when their support staff was changed. PBKS underwent a major coaching overhaul ahead of IPL 2025 as Ponting was appointed as the head coach, taking over from Trevor Bayliss. Hopes replaced Charl Langeveldt as the fast-bowling coach, while Bahutule was named the spin-bowling coach in place of Sunil Joshi, who went on to take up the role of spin-bowling coach at the BCCI CoE. Hopes joined the PBKS set-up in late 2024 after Ponting was roped in as head coach. He was in Ponting's backroom staff in Delhi Capitals too. Meanwhile, Haddin was retained by the Kings when their support staff was changed. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

CNMSports 8 Oct 2026 11:14 am

PSL 12 To Run From March 18 To May 2

The Pakistan Cricket Board: The Pakistan Cricket Board on Thursday confirmed the window for the 12th edition of the Pakistan Super League, announcing that the tournament will run from March 18 to May 2 next year. This came after extensive consultation with all key stakeholders after the PSL Governing Council meeting held in London on 1 September 2026. The meeting was attended by the owners and representatives of the PSL franchises. The League will once again clash with the highly lucrative Indian Premier League, as has been the case since 2025. Earlier, there were reports that the PSL could be brought forward to January due to the limited advertising revenue in April-May, which falls after Ramazan, by when companies have spent big amounts of their marketing and ad budgets. However, that wasn't the case with the PSL continuing March-May window, which will test the revenue and the player availability too with the IPL set to run in a similar window too. With the PSL window confirmed, there will be several notable milestones coming ahead, which include the Direct Signings, Retention announcements, the Trade window and the Player Auction. Speaking on the window announcement, PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi stated that the organisers remain committed to delivering another strong season. HBL PSL 11 showed the world what this league is capable of thrilling moments that had the whole nation transfixed, record crowds, record broadcasts. HBL PSL 12 will raise the bar further, Naqvi said. We are committed to delivering another outstanding season and look forward to seeing all eight franchises compete once again for the title, he added. Meanwhile, PSL CEO Salman Naseer also reflected on the window announcement. Last season changed what people expect from this league, and we intend to meet every one of those expectations in 2027. Todays announcement is only the first step; direct signings, retentions, the trade window and the auction will each bring their own excitement in the months ahead. Eight teams, eight squads hungry to go one better and millions of fans across Pakistan and the world already counting down the days. Naye Daur ka Aghaaz ho chuka hai. New Era, he said. The PSL was extended to eight teams last season with the introduction of Hyderabad Kingsmen and Rawalpindiz. The other six teams are Islamabad United, Karachi Kings, Lahore Qalandars, Multan Sultans, Peshawar Zalmi and Quetta Gladiators. Eight teams, eight squads hungry to go one better and millions of fans across Pakistan and the world already counting down the days. Naye Daur ka Aghaaz ho chuka hai. New Era, he said. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

CNMSports 8 Oct 2026 11:02 am

Punjab Kings' coaching staff to undergo major changes? Haddin-Hopes resign ahead of IPL 2027 | Report

The IPL (Indian Premier League) 2027 season is on the horizon, and the various franchises are hard at work as they begin the process of finalising their squads ahead of the new season of the tournament. With the auction on the horizon, Punjab Kings are being reported to be undergoing a major shake-up in the coaching department as they look to put forth a display of some brilliant cricket once more in the IPL 2027.

India TV 8 Oct 2026 10:56 am

Kieron Pollard Parts Ways With MI, Set For New Chapter With Super Kings. Not In IPL

Kieron Pollard set to turn up for Super Kings in yellow colours after being a loyalist to Mumbai Indians and its sister franchises across franchise cricket for over a decade.

NDTV 8 Oct 2026 9:11 am

Veteran actor Nana Patekar passes away at 75, takes his last breath in Goa

Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 8 (IANS) Veteran actor Nana Patekar, one of Indian cinemas most celebrated performers, has passed away at the age of 75 in Goa. An official confirmation from the Manipal hospital, Goa, confirmed that the actor was found unconscious at his Dona Paula - Goa residence and was rushed to the hospital. Doctors declared him brought dead. The acclaimed actor, known for his powerful performances across Hindi and Marathi cinema, leaves behind a remarkable body of work spanning over four decades. Born Vishwanath Patekar on January 1, 1951, in Maharashtra, Nana Patekar established himself as an actor known for his intensity, dialogue delivery and ability to portray complex and unconventional characters. For the uninitiated, he made his Hindi film debut with Gaman in 1978 and went on to become one of the most respected performers of his generation. Nanas breakthrough came with films such as Salaam Bombay! and Parinda. He went on to deliver powerpack performances in films including Angaar, Tirangaa, Krantiveer, Agni Sakshi, Khamoshi: The Musical, Yeshwant, Ab Tak Chhappan, Apaharan and Raajneeti. The legendary actor was equally recognised for his work in Marathi cinema and theatre. He also ventured into filmmaking and made his directorial debut with Prahaar: The Final Attack in 1991. His comic performance as Uday Shetty in the Welcome franchise went on to become a rage, especially amongst the younger generation of audiences. Among his other notable films are Raju Ban Gaya Gentleman, Wajood, Hu Tu Tu, Gang, Deewangee, Bhoot, Welcome, Welcome Back, Natsamrat and The Vaccine War, among several others. Nana Patekar was also a recipient of the Padma Shri, awarded to him in 2013 for his contribution to cinema and the arts. During his fine career, he won three National Film Awards and many other prestigious honours. Beyond cinema, the star was known for his association with social causes, particularly his efforts to support farmers and families affected by agrarian distress He maintained a relatively private life away despite being one of the industry's most recognisable faces.

bhaskarlive 8 Oct 2026 7:50 am

Rugby-NZ Rugby goes to high court to protect 'Chiefs' name from PNG league franchise

Rugby union officials have launched New Zealand High Court proceedings

devdiscourse 8 Oct 2026 7:01 am

Elephant Rajni, calf Badal celebrate birthdays at Dalma

The Times of India 8 Oct 2026 12:22 am

SA20 Season 5: Teenager Rowles Most Expensive Pick In Auction; Du Plessis, Pollard Head To JSK

SA20 League Commissioner Graeme Smith: Teenage cricketer Jason Rowles emerged as the standout buy with a price tag of $174,248 USD in the Player Auction for Season 5 of SA20, South Africa's domestic T20 competition, which will be held in January 2027. The Auction produced a captivating blend of proven international pedigree and exciting young talent as the four remaining franchises finalised their squads on Wednesday evening in Johannesburg. Leading the list of top signings was former Proteas captain Faf du Plessis, who sparked considerable interest before being secured by Joburg Super Kings for $162,286 USD, making him one of the biggest buys of the day. The 42-year-old was at the centre of a bidding war between Joburg Super Kings (JSK) and rivals MI Cape Town but ultimately returned to the Wanderers, where he has spent the past four SA20 seasons. Du Plessis will be joined at the Bullring by another highly experienced T20 veteran in West Indies superstar Kieron Pollard. The legendary T20 all-rounder, who is the all-time leading run-scorer in men's T20 cricket history, was snapped up by Joburg Super Kings for $90,162 USD. Pollard will bring his trademark power-hitting, game management and championship-winning pedigree to the Super Kings. MI Cape Town were not going to be outdone and invested heavily in Proteas all-rounder Wiaan Mulder, securing his services for $156,274 USD, while also adding West Indies power-hitter Shimron Hetmyer for $90,162 USD in the first purchase of the day. Former Proteas top-order batter Rassie van der Dussen will meanwhile continue his SA20 journey with the Pretoria Capitals after being secured for $30,053 USD, adding stability and experience to the Capitals' batting unit as they look to go one step further after finishing as runners-up for the second time last season to Sunrisers Eastern Cape. To help the Capitals get there, there will be Proteas Test and ODI captain Temba Bavuma. The 36-year-old will be enjoying his third stint in SA20 after helping the Sunrisers Eastern Cape to their first two championships. While established stars dominated much of the conversation, the most dramatic moment of the auction belonged to 18-year-old Jason Rowles. The highly rated Under-23 prospect became the subject of an intense bidding battle between MI Cape Town and Joburg Super Kings, with both franchises recognising his long-term potential. After a spirited contest, JSK emerged victorious, securing Rowles for $174,248 USD, the standout purchase of the entire auction. The fierce competition for Rowles underlined the growing value being placed on emerging South African talent within the SA20 ecosystem. His acquisition not only represents a major investment in the future but also highlights the League's ongoing role in identifying and accelerating the development of the country's next generation of stars. Jason Rowles, new Joburg Super Kings signing, St David's Marist Inanda matriculant and rain Schools SA20 graduate, was the standout purchase of the 2026 Player Auction as Joburg Super Kings paid $174,248 USD to have his services in Season 5. This year's auction showed exactly what SA20 has become, SA20 League Commissioner Graeme Smith said. Its become a home where world-class players like Faf du Plessis, Shimron Hetmyer and Trent Boult sit alongside South Africa's brightest young talent. Jason Rowles was the highlight of the day for me. Seeing an 18-year-old spark the biggest bidding battle of the day tells you how much the franchises believe in the next generation. It was only last year that he was participating in the Final of the rain-affected Schools SA20, and today he will get to be a part of a squad consisting of some of the worlds best T20 stars. That's the pathway we set out to build, and it's hugely encouraging to see it working, Smith said. Three-time champion Sunrisers Eastern Cape once again showed their shrewdness at the auction table by completing their 19-player squad with the addition of Proteas left-arm seamer Nandre Burger and England allrounder Craig Overton. They now form part of a formidable Sunrisers Eastern Cape pace attack that already includes Anrich Nortje, Marco Jansen, Adam Milne and Lutho Sipamla. MI Cape Town also strengthened their seam bowling stocks with the return signing of New Zealand fast-bowling great Trent Boult and 21-year-old Oliver Whitehead, while SA20s global appeal stretched to the USA and Zimbabwe with JSK acquiring Andries Gous and Blessing Muzarabani. It's also really pleasing to see so many Proteas players being picked up today, Smith added. A strong League and a strong national team go hand in hand, and today was a good example of that. MI Cape Town also strengthened their seam bowling stocks with the return signing of New Zealand fast-bowling great Trent Boult and 21-year-old Oliver Whitehead, while SA20s global appeal stretched to the USA and Zimbabwe with JSK acquiring Andries Gous and Blessing Muzarabani. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

CNMSports 8 Oct 2026 12:14 am

Canada's Weston family company agrees to buy UK's Boots

Wittington Investments, Limited will acquire Boots' retail operations in the UK and Ireland, Boots Opticians, No7 Beauty Company and its Thailand and franchised businesses.

The Economic Times 8 Oct 2026 12:13 am

Has Franchise Cricket Taken the Sting Out of Test Battles?

Simon Harmer believes franchise T20 cricket has softened the fierce Australia-South Africa rivalry by turning international opponents into teammates, though he expects intense competition in the Test series.

Rediff 8 Oct 2026 12:12 am

BSc student from Bihar found hanging in rented Deoghar room

The Times of India 7 Oct 2026 11:16 pm

Akshaye Khanna not returning for Ikka 2; Sunny Deol to reprise his role as lawyer Arjun Mehra: Report

Sunny Deol will reprise his role as Arjun Mehra in the upcoming sequel 'Ikka 2'. Akshaye Khanna will not return, indicating a significant change in the franchise. The sequel will focus on a new storyline rather than continuing the first film's plot. Production is expected to start next year after finalizing the screenplay and theme. Both actors have busy schedules with several upcoming projects on the horizon.

The Economic Times 7 Oct 2026 10:59 pm

The anchor who held the Soren family together

The Times of India 7 Oct 2026 10:57 pm

Rupi Soren, CM Hemants mother, dies after prolonged illness

The Times of India 7 Oct 2026 10:47 pm

City hospital gets approval for two PG seats

The Times of India 7 Oct 2026 10:32 pm

BJP symbolically renames Harmu Chowk, Congress objects

The Times of India 7 Oct 2026 10:19 pm

Six teams to check food adulteration in East Singhbhum

The Times of India 7 Oct 2026 9:49 pm

APL Season 2: India's Archery Talent On Display

The second season of the Archery Premier League (APL) is set to begin in Hyderabad on Thursday, featuring Olympic medallists and recent Asian Games stars. The six-team franchise competition will host leading recurve and compound archers from India and abroad, running from October 8 to 18 with a unique faster shooting format.

Rediff 7 Oct 2026 9:45 pm

Kieron Pollard has joined Joburg Super Kings in SA20 auction; MI Cape Town sign Trent Boult, Shimron Hetmyer

Kieron Pollards association with the MI family began in 2010. He has served the franchise for over a decade and is currently the batting coach of Mumbai Indians in the Indian Premier League. However, he...

India TV 7 Oct 2026 9:43 pm

New gear boosts Ramgarh womans home guard bid

The Times of India 7 Oct 2026 8:58 pm

Mortal Kombat II OTT Release: Recap, Plot, Cast, When And Where To Watch The Action Packed Sequel?

'Mortal Kombat II' is the sequel to the 2021 reboot and the latest live-action entry in the reboot series. The franchise itself began with the 1995 film Mortal Kombat, followed by Mortal Kombat Annihilation in 1997.

NDTV 7 Oct 2026 8:03 pm

SA20 Auction 2027 LIVE Updates: Big Names To Go Under The Hammer As 4 Teams Aim To Complete Squad

SA20 Auction 2027 LIVE Updates: The event brings plenty of thrill, hype and buzz, with four franchises left to spend USD 2.10 million on 19 available slots.

NDTV 7 Oct 2026 7:45 pm

EXCLUSIVE: Force 3 writer Simaab Hashmi says John Abraham-Harshvardhan Rane combo will pack a PUNCH; calls the film bigger, better and BADDER

On September 23, the nominations for the 54th International Emmy Awards were announced and, in a significant achievement for India, the SonyLIV series Real Kashmir Football Club bagged a nomination in the Best Drama Series category. The recognition came as a pleasant surprise for the team, who are understandably on cloud nine. Its lead writer and executive producer is Simaab Hashmi, who is also the writer and creative producer of Force 3. The much-awaited action film brings together John Abraham and Harshvardhan Rane for the first time. In an exclusive interview with Bollywood Hungama, Simaab Hashmi spoke about Force 3, which is all set to release on March 19, 2027. Simaab Hashmi said, Force 3 is bigger, better and badder than ever before! People are pumped up about the combination of John Abraham and Harshvardhan Rane. Seeing them together on the big screen will surely pack a punch (smiles). Simaab was all praise for both John Abraham and Harshvardhan Rane. He revealed, In our industry, there is a lot of lip service. A lot of filmmakers claim in interviews, We should support writers. But when you meet them or during narrations, you dont always feel that energy. I was on the set of Force 3 as I am also a creative producer, and I saw how collaborative both John Abraham and Harshvardhan Rane were. They are such nice people and genuinely care about what the director and writer have to say. I tell people, Both of them have spoilt me and director Bhav Dhulia! They were so welcoming and warm towards every idea we threw at them. He added, John Abraham has really been a leader who has led the film both as a producer and an actor. As for Harshvardhan Rane, we share such a bond that I call him Harsh bhai. Harshvardhan Rane has had a huge fan following, but box-office success had largely eluded him. That changed last year when Sanam Teri Kasam was re-released and amassed huge numbers. It also gave a boost to his Diwali release, Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat, which emerged as a sleeper hit last year. On this, Simaab smiled and said, It proves that you cant keep a good man down. Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: From John Abrahams Force 3 to Ekta Kapoors action franchise: Harshvardhan Ranes recent choices suggest producers are beginning to explore the full range of his screen persona

Bollywood Hungama 7 Oct 2026 7:40 pm

SA20 Auction LIVE: Kieron Pollard, Faf du Plessis, Trent Boult among others set to go under hammer

The SA20 Season 5 auction is set to begin with four franchises still to fill 19 squad positions after the salary cap was raised to USD 2.54 million. Joburg Super Kings enter the auction with...

India TV 7 Oct 2026 7:27 pm

SA20 2027 Live Streaming: When And Where To Watch Live Telecast

The stage is set for the SA20 Season 5 player auction as four franchises prepare to battle it out for 19 available squad slots with a total purse of USD 2.10 million.

NDTV 7 Oct 2026 7:23 pm

RJD youth wing to take athletes concerns to govt

The Times of India 7 Oct 2026 7:12 pm

SA20 2026 Live Streaming: When And Where To Watch Live Telecast

The stage is set for the SA20 Season 5 player auction as four franchises prepare to battle it out for 19 available squad slots with a total purse of USD 2.10 million.

NDTV 7 Oct 2026 6:43 pm

How Skydance

Highlights Warner Bros and Paramount are set to come under the same corporate ownership after Skydances takeover The deal reduces Hollywoods major studio landscape from five companies to four HBO Max and Paramount+ could eventually be combined into a single streaming service The merger could affect film production, theatrical releases, studio jobs and Hollywoods creative direction Skydance has committed to maintaining a significant number of theatrical releases each year Hollywood is entering a new era as Warner Bros and Paramount come together under Skydance, creating one of the biggest shake-ups the industry has seen in years. The deal brings two major entertainment companies under the same ownership, putting brands including Warner Bros, HBO, CNN, CBS, Paramount , Nickelodeon, MTV and Comedy Central within one corporate structure. It also means Hollywoods traditional Big Five studios will effectively become the Big Four. The full impact will take time to emerge, but the merger could reshape everything from how films are made and released to how streaming services compete for audiences. Fewer major studios could mean a more concentrated Hollywood The merger significantly changes the balance of power in Hollywood. Warner Bros and Paramount have historically operated as separate studios, competing for filmmakers, actors, franchises and audiences. That competition will now take place within the same corporate structure. While the combined company could have greater financial strength and a larger film library, there are concerns about what fewer major studios could mean for competition across the industry. The deal is also expected to bring job cuts as the companies look for ways to reduce costs and remove overlapping roles. For Hollywood workers, the merger could therefore mean a period of uncertainty as the new company decides how its various divisions will operate. The change could also affect the types of films that receive major studio backing. Warner Bros has recently backed a mixture of franchise films, original projects and smaller releases, while Skydance has built much of its business around large-scale commercial entertainment. Streaming could become more consolidated One of the biggest changes for audiences could eventually come through streaming. Warner Bros owns HBO Max, while Paramount operates Paramount+. The two services are expected to eventually be brought together, although there is no confirmed timeline for when that will happen. A combined service would give the new company an enormous library of films and television shows, potentially making it a stronger competitor to Netflix and other major streaming platforms. However, consolidation could also come with higher prices. A combined streaming package could cost more than either service currently does on its own, meaning consumers may eventually have to pay more for access to the same range of content. The future of movies could become more franchise-driven The merger could have an equally significant impact on the theatrical side of Hollywood. Skydance has committed to maintaining a substantial number of theatrical releases, which could mean the combined studio continues putting a large volume of films into cinemas. That could benefit exhibitors and audiences by keeping a steady flow of major releases on the calendar. Warner Bros already has a major slate of films planned, including Superman , Ocean's , Minecraft and future Godzilla and Kong projects. Paramount, meanwhile, has franchises such as Sonic the Hedgehog , A Quiet Place and Paranormal Activity in its pipeline. The bigger question is what happens to the kinds of films made between the major franchise releases. Warner Bros has recently found success with films including Sinners , Weapons and One Battle After Another , alongside major franchise titles. There are concerns that the new company could place greater emphasis on established intellectual property, sequels and commercially proven concepts. If that happens, Hollywood could see fewer opportunities for original or riskier projects at the studio level. For filmmakers and audiences, that may be the most important long-term consequence of the merger. The combined company will have the resources to produce a huge number of films, but the question is whether that scale will lead to greater variety or a more streamlined approach to mainstream entertainment.

easterneye 7 Oct 2026 6:39 pm

71% seats vacant in JFIs aviation & hospitality course

The Times of India 7 Oct 2026 6:19 pm

Sports ministry forms seven-member committee for Hockey India League revival

A seven-member committee has been established to focus on revitalizing the Hockey India League. The committee includes representatives from Hockey India, HIL franchises, and the Sports Ministry. Stakeholders have been directed to prioritize governance, financial models, and league structure. Concerns have arisen regarding the uncertainty of the HIL's next season amid rising costs. Recent appeals have highlighted the need to address financial distress within women's hockey in India.

The Economic Times 7 Oct 2026 6:08 pm

Sports Ministry Steps In As Hockey India League Faces Uncertain Future

The Sports Ministry has formally constituted a seven-member committee comprising representatives of Hockey India, HIL franchises and the ministry to work on the revival of the crisis-ridden Hockey India League.

NDTV 7 Oct 2026 6:04 pm

Stage Set For SA20 Season 5 Player Auction As Four Teams Bid To Complete Squads

Both Joburg Super Kings: The stage is set for the SA20 season 5 player auction as four franchises prepare to battle it out for 19 available squad slots with a total purse of 2.10 million USD here on Wednesday. With Durban's Super Giants and Paarl Royals having already finalised their squads following an increase in the salary cap to 2.54 million USD for season five, the remaining four teams - Joburg Super Kings, MI Cape Town, Sunrisers Eastern Cape, and Pretoria Capitals, will enter the bidding room to complete their rosters. Experienced presenter Dan Nicholl will hold the gavel for the first time, with former South Africa international stars Chris Morris and Neil McKenzie offering expert commentary as the proceedings unfold. Joburg Super Kings, under new head coach Albie Morkel, possess the largest purse entering the auction at 1.245 million USD alongside an unallocated wildcard slot. Robin Peterson's MI Cape Town enter with 565,150 USD while three-time champions Sunrisers Eastern Cape, coached by Adrian Birrell, hold 217,600 USD. Shaun Pollock's Pretoria Capitals carry 89,150 USD into the session. Under league roster regulations, each 19-player squad must feature 18 registered core players including a maximum of seven overseas players and a minimum of 11 South Africans (at least two of whom must be Under-23) - in addition to one wildcard player outside the standard salary cap. Both Joburg Super Kings and MI Cape Town must select at least one Under-23 player from the 48 players shortlisted in that bracket. The auction structure comprises Marquee Mixed Set Rounds followed by a Nomination Express Round, where franchises can explicitly nominate individual players to bring to the table. The Right to Match (RTM) option will not be available to any of the participating teams for this auction. Across the five seasons of the league, total auction spend on players has reached 70.75 million USD, producing career-defining moments for several homegrown talents. Reflecting on his entry into the league, Sunrisers Eastern Cape captain Tristan Stubbs recalled his initial auction experience. I was very young, I was 20-something. I remember watching the Auction with my digs mates. We were jumping up and down. We couldnt believe what just happened. No one really expected it. I didnt expect it. It was quite overwhelming, he said. That record was later broken when Dewald Brevis was secured by Pretoria Capitals for 16.5 million rand ahead of season four, going on to help lead his side to the final. Obviously, there are people that refer to the price tag, but for me I just remain Dewald and keep playing the game. I know why I play cricket, and Im grateful for how the auction went, getting to represent my home team in Pretoria. We had an amazing time, and I really enjoyed it. Pretoria Capitals captain Keshav Maharaj pointed out that the element of unpredictability adds to the event's atmosphere. Going into the Auction, its a fear of the unknown. Once again, regardless of who you are, I think theres always an element of where, price, if Im going to get picked first of all. But throughout my career, Ive always wanted an opportunity to play outside of Durban. Its been a wonderful opportunity to experience that and experience a different culture towards cricket, which I would say was pretty phenomenal and second to nothing. For top-order batter Matthew Breetzke, the process demonstrated how the league can transform a player's career trajectory - moving from a base price purchase of 10,576 USD by Durban's Super Giants in the inaugural auction to a 368,000 USD move back home to Sunrisers Eastern Cape in season 4. I think the opportunity that the Durbans Super Giants gave me was something that catapulted my career. During the Season 4 Auction, I was actually coming off a flight from I dont know where and landed before I put my phone on and got all the messages that I was going back home. For top-order batter Matthew Breetzke, the process demonstrated how the league can transform a player's career trajectory - moving from a base price purchase of 10,576 USD by Durban's Super Giants in the inaugural auction to a 368,000 USD move back home to Sunrisers Eastern Cape in season 4. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

CNMSports 7 Oct 2026 6:02 pm

Entire noise is not being made by voters, but by parties that couldn't win: Former HC Judge Shiv Narayan Dhingra slams INDIA bloc's EC protests

Former Delhi High Court judge Justice Shiv Narayan Dhingra on Wednesday criticised the opposition INDIA bloc over its street protests against the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process and march to the Election Commission of India (ECI) headquarters. Speaking to ANI, he countered allegations of mass voter deletion during the ECI's Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise. Justice Dhingra said the agitation was a politically motivated media spectacle rather than a genuine concern over voter rights. Rebutting opposition claims that the SIR exercise is designed to disenfranchise legitimate voters, Justice Dhingra emphasised that intensive electoral roll revision is a mandatory statutory obligation of the Election Commission: This entire noise is not being made by voters. It is being made by those political parties that could not win the election. If the voter has any grievance, the remedy is there. If your name is not there, you can tell the Election Commission, 'I have been wrongly...

devdiscourse 7 Oct 2026 5:57 pm

146 Athletes From 21 Countries Line Up For Indian Supercross Racing League Season 3

Indian Supercross Racing League (ISRL), the world's first franchise-based Supercross league, has officially closed rider registrations for Season 3, attracting 146 athletes from 21 countries across its four racing categories

NDTV 7 Oct 2026 5:06 pm

ACB arrests three in Hbag illegal land deal crackdown

The Times of India 7 Oct 2026 4:49 pm

Bokaro DC asks officials to speed up Form-6 digitisation

The Times of India 7 Oct 2026 4:45 pm

HIL Revival Committee Formed

The Sports Ministry has established a seven-member committee, including representatives from Hockey India, HIL franchises, and the ministry, to address the crisis and work towards the revival of the Hockey India League. This follows a September meeting where Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya discussed concerns with stakeholders, aiming to resolve issues related to governance, finance, and structure.

Rediff 7 Oct 2026 4:33 pm

I'll Be Giving My Best To Make The Side Successful, Says Ganguly On Joining Delhi Capitals As Head Coach

Indian Premier League: Newly-appointed Delhi Capitals (DC) head coach Sourav Ganguly on Wednesday said he is excited to take on his new role and pledged to give his best to make the franchise successful in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season. Ganguly shares a long-standing association with DC across various capacities. The former India captain served as DC's mentor during the 2019 season before stepping away to assume the role of BCCI President. After that, Ganguly was subsequently appointed as JSW's director of cricket in 2024. Ganguly, whos also the President of the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB), made his formal coaching debut with Pretoria Capitals in the 2025 SA20 season and has also been actively involved with the DC setup in the Women's Premier League (WPL). Well, I'm very, very excited. I've been with them for two seasons, both as director of cricket. The first season in 2019, we lost in the semis and then I went away as BCCI president. So I'm really, really excited for the season ahead. It's the next year, IPL, and Delhi is a very good team. This is a very good side, and I'll be giving my best to make the side successful, Ganguly said in a video shared on the franchise's official YouTube channel on Wednesday. Asked on what clicked for him to be DC head coach, Ganguly said, I wanted to experience the mindset of a coach because it's not the same as a player. It's a bit different. You need to understand things. You need to be relaxed. You still need to find a way to get the best out of players and work with the players because players are different. It's not you batting or you bowling anymore. It's about somebody else batting and bowling and winning cricket matches. So it's important that you sync with them and understand what they want, how they can get better, and work with them, which is very important, he explained. Addressing his lingering drive to guide DC to a championship win, Ganguly insisted that the current group possesses the talent required to go head-to-head with any side in the competition. Motivation to take Delhi to the top, we did in 2019. In 2020, Delhi was a very good team. I was involved in making the team, but then I left and became the BCCI president. So from that point of view, that motivation will always remain to take that squad to a different level. I think that's what I will be looking out for the players because there's enormous talent in the dressing room. When you go man-to-man with some of the best teams in the competition, Delhi is no way behind. Hopefully with this squad, we'll be able to reach newer heights in the years to come, he asserted. Hailing the squad's core, Ganguly highlighted the key addition of wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant via a trade earlier this year, alongside a star-studded lineup featuring KL Rahul, Axar Patel, Mitchell Starc, and David Miller. We needed a middle-order Indian batter, and Pant fits it perfectly. He was with us. He played well for us in the past. Hopefully this year, next year, when he turns up again, I think he'll use the time and space and the matches to become a better player. He enjoys batting at Feroz Shah Kotla in Delhi, and hopefully we'll see the best of Pant in the years to come for the Delhi shirt. It's a good team - KL Rahul, Axar Patel, Rishabh Pant, Mitchell Stark, Lungi Ngidi, Ashutosh, Miller, Stubbs. So it's a pretty strong team, man and I hope we play to our potential. I hope everyone understands how good they are and goes and expresses themselves. So that's very important for the squad, he noted. On the tactical front, Ganguly underlined that T20 cricket demands an uncompromising, aggressive approach while adapting to conditions at their home venue, the Arun Jaitley Stadium. Well, in T20 cricket, it's only one brand. Keep hitting sixes and keep hitting fours. So that's what the brand is all about and you play accordingly. It's a good wicket at Feroz Shah Kotla. You play according to the situation, you play the game and react to the situation, which is most important in sport. So from that point of view, that's the brand we are going to play. We're going to play to win. That's always been the case and hopefully with the squad we have, we'll become successful, he said. Calling on the squad to deliver for the franchise management and fans, Ganguly admitted that the team's track record over the last 18 years needs significant improvement. Parth (Jindal, co-owner) is like my young brother and my relationship with him just goes beyond Delhi Capitals. Delhi Capitals is just a part and with Kiran (Kumar Grandhi, co-owner), I was there in 2019. I know he's a gentleman. As they call in the sport, a gentle giant. So as I said, the team deserves better performances. The owners deserve much better than what this franchise has done over the last 17, 18 years. Getting to the final in 2020 and semifinal in 2019, eight years before and four years after that, it hasn't been good. Calling on the squad to deliver for the franchise management and fans, Ganguly admitted that the team's track record over the last 18 years needs significant improvement. Parth (Jindal, co-owner) is like my young brother and my relationship with him just goes beyond Delhi Capitals. Delhi Capitals is just a part and with Kiran (Kumar Grandhi, co-owner), I was there in 2019. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

CNMSports 7 Oct 2026 4:14 pm

Trade stunned by Drishyam The Conclusions Rs. 174 cr opening weekend; predict a lifetime of Rs. 400-450 cr: It doesnt have any of the commercial trappings like hit music, romance, comedy etc

The trade and industry expected Drishyam The Conclusion to open with a bang. Yet, when it collected a huge Rs. 174 crores, it stunned the industry. We asked trade experts about its huge business and what lies ahead. Trade veteran Taran Adarsh said, I was expecting a huge number from the opening weekend, and the film has actually lived up to those expectations in terms of content as well as numbers. Drishyam, as a brand, has only grown. People loved the first part, but they largely saw it on television and digital platforms. Thus, the fan following grew. So, when Drishyam 2 came out, it already had a ready-made audience. With the second part faring so well at the box office, it laid the foundation for the third part, as far as the numbers are concerned. When the second part opened so big, the third part was bound to be 5 or 10 steps ahead. Thats what has happened. He sighed, At the same time, I feel sad that this series has come to an end. The story and characters resonated with the people. Today, people know the Pav Bhaji joke and the satsang connection (laughs). Also, Goa as a backdrop, the Salgaonkar family, the quest for Meera to take Vijay Salgaonkar to task everything about these films became so memorable. Hence, theres definitely a sense of loss now that the series has come to an end. Vishek Chauhan, owner of Roopbani Cinema in Purnia, Bihar, expressed, It was a surprise. I didnt expect it to open the way it did. It is among the biggest openers in recent times. Also, its a film which doesnt have any of the commercial trappings like hit music, romance, comedy, etc. Its a plot-driven franchise with a dash of murder mystery. Its not an ideal family entertainer in the truest sense, though the family values are very strong. Hence, its opening was surprising. The reason probably is that the love for the franchise has become immense. That is what drove the huge ticket sales. People had this trust that theyll have a good time. Trade analyst Atul Mohan said, Yes, it was a pleasant surprise. We expected the film to open in the range of Rs. 40 crores plus. The series has a huge following. In fact, I told Kumar ji (producer Kumar Mangat Pathak) before the release, Congratulations, ab ki paar, 300 paar! Distributor and exhibitor Raj Bansal confessed, I didnt expect the film to do this much. I was expecting an opening of Rs. 45 crores, but it ended up having a first day collection of Rs. 62 crores. Similarly, I expected a weekend of Rs. 140 crores, but it collected Rs. 175 crores in three days. A collection of Rs. 20 crores on Monday is huge. He also remarked, Drishyam didnt have scope for music and yet it has done so well. If there was scope for music, the film would have done better by 15-20%. Lifetime predictions Trade experts feel that itll have a huge lifetime but not sure if itll collect Rs. 500 crores. Taran Adarsh said, Its a bit too early to say. Udta Teer has been shifted ahead. So, they have an open run and the second weekend will also be fantastic. But on October 16, two prominent films will be up for release Prahaar and Nayyi Navelli. They wont take away all the screens and audiences. But there will be choice for the audience. Lets see if Drishyam is able to put up a tough fight at that point. Nevertheless, the job is done. It has crossed Rs. 200 crores and will move towards the Rs. 300 crore mark. Atul Mohan stated, Rs. 400 crores lifetime is on for sure. The film has 2 open weeks to score. Itll face competition in the third week. But when a film is doing so well, the first preference of the multiplexes is to retain shows of the successful holdover film. So, they would allocate sufficient slots to Drishyam. Raj Bansal opined, I am expecting the film to have a lifetime in the range of Rs. 400 crores and Rs. 450 crores. It can do Rs. 500 crores. However, the pre-Diwali period would kick in. That has a major effect on footfalls, especially in North India. Also, Ramayana will arrive in the first week of November. If it had no such obstacles, it would have a chance in crossing the Rs. 500 crores mark. Nevertheless, itll have a steady run as viewers are loving the film. Vishek Chauhan explained, Its a possibility, but I still believe that genre limitations will kick in. Yes, it has opened well, but will it have enough gas to reach the Rs. 500 crore mark? That remains to be seen. For that, the film should have had a little bit more of commercial trappings to get the audience in. Never say never, but Rs. 350-400 crore finish is definitely on the cards. In fact, Ill be very disappointed if it doesnt do Rs. 400 crores. And if it hits the Rs. 500 crore mark, Ill be very ecstatic. He added, Theres a major advantage that theres no competing film. So, it has an open run for 2 weeks. However, once we hit the Dussehra festivities, people will get a bit diverted. Anyway, whats important is that a film like this collecting Rs. 300-400 crores is simply phenomenal. Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Drishyam actor Samvedna Suwalka recalls Ajay Devgns appreciation for her monologue in part 2: He patted my back and said, Well done; adds, My 10-12 years of hard work is paying off after Drishyam The Conclusion

Bollywood Hungama 7 Oct 2026 3:41 pm

Very Satisfying To Be Honest, God Listens If You Work Hard,' Says Naman Dhir On Dream T20I Debut

Naman Dhir: In a matter of three weeks, batting all-rounder Naman Dhir completed a fairytale introduction to international cricket and after having a memorable T20I debut against the West Indies, he attributed this very satisfying feeling to honest hard work and God listening to his prayers. Having featured in all three ODIs against the West Indies, Dhir was drafted into the T20I squad at the eleventh hour, with Washington Sundar released to play the Ranji Trophy. In India's eight-wicket victory over the West Indies in Lucknow on Tuesday, operating as the fifth bowling option, Dhir claimed three crucial wickets on his T20I debut. It is very satisfying to be honest. If you had asked me two or three weeks ago if I was playing for India or if I was debuting in both formats I might not have believed you. But like I told you during the ODI debut, if you work hard with honesty, God will listen to you one day. So I guess this is the day for me, Dhir said in a video posted on bcci.tv on Wednesday. Demonstrating exceptional temperament, Dhir adjusted his line, length, and pace whenever put under pressure to execute his off-spin bowling. Interestingly, Dhir picked up all three of his wickets on the very next ball after being hit for a six. Reflecting on his bowling strategy, Dhir revealed that observing left-arm spin bowling all-rounder Axar Patel during the Powerplay helped him assess the surface conditions effectively. I saw Axar bhai in powerplay and he was throwing a slower ball and was getting a bit of grip. So my plan was to throw a slow ball and the wicket was a bit damp which was helpful for the spinners. If I could throw a slower ball and get a bit of grip, then I guess I benefited a lot, he said. Dhir revealed that disciplined preparation across domestic and franchise cricket provided him with the composure required on the big stage. Preparation is the most important thing for me. If I am playing a match, whether its in the IPL or for the Indian team or in the Ranji Trophy, then preparation is very important for me - be it batting or bowling. So I guess it helps me to stay calm. If you are well prepared only then you can be confident otherwise you cannot be. Preparation is very important for me. Obviously, there were a few nerves but as compared to the one day debut it was much less because that is when you play your first international game. So there were a lot of nerves but as compared to that it was much less. I enjoyed my T20 debut a lot. So I am very grateful, he added. State teammate and India fast bowler Arshdeep Singh, who presented Dhir with his T20I cap prior to the match, praised the all-rounder's fearless approach and steady growth over the years. First of all, it's an honour to hand over the cap number 125 to Naman Dhir. First time, I've seen him in under 16 days and after that whenever I've seen him, he has always improved and he has shown his A game. So I guess it helps me to stay calm. If you are well prepared only then you can be confident otherwise you cannot be. Preparation is very important for me. Obviously, there were a few nerves but as compared to the one day debut it was much less because that is when you play your first international game. So there were a lot of nerves but as compared to that it was much less. I enjoyed my T20 debut a lot. So I am very grateful, he added. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

CNMSports 7 Oct 2026 3:26 pm

Ikka 2: Sunny Deol to lead new story as Akshaye Khanna exits franchise

Sunny Deol is set to reprise his role in Netflixs Ikka 2, but Akshaye Khanna will not return for the sequel. The makers have already begun writing an entirely new story, developing a fresh courtroom drama rather than continuing the first films narrative

Mid Day 7 Oct 2026 2:58 pm

EXCLUSIVE: Drishyam actor Samvedna Suwalka recalls Ajay Devgns appreciation for her monologue in part 2: He patted my back and said, Well done; adds, My 10-12 years of hard work is paying off after Drishyam The Conclusion

Samvedna Suwalka played Vijay Salgaonkars (Ajay Devgn) lawyer Gayathri Mohan in Drishyam 2. She had a memorable monologue at the end. But she got a bigger and meatier part in the recently-released third part of the franchise, Drishyam The Conclusion. She stood on her own despite her character being pitted against someone as senior as Prakash Raj. In an exclusive chat with Bollywood Hungama, Samvedna got candid on life after Drishyam The Conclusion, her memorable process of auditioning for Drishyam 2 and her more than a decade long career. How has life been after the release of Drishyam The Conclusion? I am in a controlled delirium. I started in 2013. My career hasnt been an overnight success. It has been a sustained success. I had Bey Yaar in 2014, which was a huge hit in Gujarat. That gave me a validation that acting choose kiya hai toh kaam milega. It was a temporary stardom with Pratik Gandhi and all. It was very interesting that that happened and I would come to Bombay and still be a struggling actor, stand in lines and give auditions. Over a period of a decade, I have built my career very slowly. Every year, I would think that I have moved one step ahead. Somewhere around lockdown, I started getting work in mainstream Bollywood because I did plays and a lot of independent films, which went to festivals but never saw the light of the day. OTT also gave me a great opportunity. I got a lot of shows where I played primary characters like Jee Karda and Gyarah Gyarah. I did Fighter and Drishyam 2 as well. When Drishyam 2 happened, I thought it has big stars, so my role will come and go. But even for that part I got so much validation from the audience, which was very surprising. I had never been a part of such a big film. I knew Drishyam 3 is going to be big. I knew this time I had a bigger, better and meatier part. Thats why I am using the word controlled because I kind of knew (the response). But even if you know, when you actually experience it, you realize how it is. So, right now I am experiencing success. My Instagram followers are increasing. I am getting calls; my parents are getting calls. It feels like my 10-12 years of hard work is paying off. What was your reaction when you came to know that you have a bigger role the third film? People knew that Drishyam 3 is being made. I was waiting. I also sent a message to the writer Aamil Keeyan Khan asking if the lawyer is coming back (in part 3). He replied with, All in good time. I also messaged someone from the production asking if Drishyam 3 is happening and they were like, Yes, its happening but they didnt say more. I was eager to know if I would be there in the film. I had my fingers crossed and I told God, Bhagwan, Gayathri Mohan ko wapas le aana (laughs). You cant be sure. Maybe, they dont go to the court this time or bring any other lawyer. Then later when I got a call from the casting asking if I have dates, I was like, For what? They said its for Drishyam 3. I was like, Yes, we are in. During the reading, Aamil came in and said that they should do the reading. When I started reading my 2nd or 3rd scene, I was like, Itna kaam hai mera. Main court ke baahar bhi hoon. He looked at me, smiled and said, Take it in, your life is going to change (laughs). I took a long breath and said, This is going to be fantastic. How was your first ever meet with Ajay Devgn? In part 3, I have scenes with Ajay sir and his family and then I got to the court. In part 2, there is a small sequence where Ajay sir and his family are taken to the court. That was the first time I met Ajay sir, Shriya (Saran) maam and their family. It was a very formal Hi hello. I only had to say my lines, so we didnt speak much. Ajay sir gave his shot and walked away. He was very reserved. Shriya maam spoke to me a lot. But my proper meeting with Ajay sir was when I had my courtroom monologue in the climax. That scene happened with Ajay sir standing in the witness box. It was my second meet. He came and said, How are you Samvedna? I was like, Arre he remembers me (laughs). He keeps really quiet. He mostly keeps it to himself. But his intensity and energy is such that everyone is aware that Ajay sir is there. I was like, I have to get this right as I have to perform in front of Ajay sir. I was very prepared. The monologue was okayed by Abhishek in just one take. I asked, You dont want another take? He said, Nahin, mil gaya. By the end of that afternoon by lunch break, Ajay sir was walking away. He came up to me, patted me on my back, smiled and said, Well done and walked away. Just like that. I was like my day and life were made (laughs)! This is my first memory of him and I cherish that. How were you cast in Drishyam 2? Was there an audition? It was as boring as auditions happen. It was literally a generic audition. I will never forget this. In 2021 October, there was no war between Ukraine and Russia. I had gone to Ukraine to shoot an ad. It was an Indian ad but it was being shot in Ukraine for production reasons. When I was about to return in the flight, I got a message from the casting associate saying there is a small role in Drishyam 2 but its an important role. Usually this is what is told to actors the role is small but significant. Thats the way people are convinced to give auditions. I was told it was for three days. I said okay I will do the audition. There was no excitement. Drishyam was big but I thought it would be an insignificant role as it has such a big cast. They were constantly asking me to send the audition soon as they had to lock it soon. Pushkaraj Chirputkar played my husband in the ad. He was helping me with the lines in the flight. I was reciting the monologue to him. He liked what I did and said that I will get that part. But I didnt think so thinking there must be so many people lined up for a big film like this. I came back to India and sent the audition. I didnt think much of it. But after a week or 10 days, I was told that the director liked it and asked me to come for a meeting. Abhishek asked me whether I would like to do the role. I asked what the role is about. I readily agreed. It was just like a generic audition. In the 3rd part, your character is pitted against a veteran actor like Prakash Raj. How was the whole experience of on screen arguments with him? Prakash Raj sir is such a seasoned actor. You grew up watching him. In Hindi films, at least, he usually plays a villain. Even before you meet him, there is this idea of him being a very powerful person and all of that. Even when you meet him, he is tall and towering. I asked the writers how come they continued with me. They said if Gayathri Mohan has won the case for Vijay in part 2, why will he change the lawyer? And he is like a middle-class man from Goa, so he will continue with his people. They said Tabu will bring a very powerful lawyer and they wanted this to look like a very David vs Goliath chemistry on screen. And Ajay sir is playing an underdog. So, if a woman is fighting for him in front of a powerful towering man, it is an extension of that underdog. I was like, Arre baap re Prakash Raj sir ke saamne karna hai. But I was excited also as I have been around and done some work. Once we get into the character, its about what those two characters are doing. Thats the fun part of it; between action and cut, we are what our characters are. We were rivals, we were fighting each other, we were vicious, manipulative, etc. But the moment cut happens, sir will say, Lunch break mein maine khana mangaya hai, khayegi kya? I would say, Of course, sir. I used to eat food with him. And he used to get delicious food. He is fond of cooking. At times, even his wife would bring food and we would eat. But then on the set, we are again fighting each other (laughs). It was a joy to be on this set. Purely from craft and acting perspective, when you work with veterans, it elevates you. They are so good at what they do that they make you better. Where do we see you next after Drishyam The Conclusion? I have shot an independent film called DINK (Double Income No Kids). This was with a Marathi producer but we shot this in English. This is an Indo-British collaboration. I shot it this in London in August. I just completed Ribhu Dasguptas Guru with John Abraham. I was shooting for this in London till last week. These two films will take a little while to come out next year. But my immediate next is a film with Subhash Ghai called Manya. Subhash sir has written and produced it. Its directed by Sameer Joshi. I am one of the main characters. Also Read: Drishyam The Conclusion Worldwide Box Office: Ajay Devgn starrer enters Top 5 highest grossers of 2026, becomes fifth release to cross Rs. 300 cr globally

Bollywood Hungama 7 Oct 2026 1:41 pm

Shane Bond sacked by Birmingham Phoenix after rock-bottom finish

Birmingham franchise makes change after solitary season under new ownership

Espn CricInfo 7 Oct 2026 1:07 pm

Off-field Observations Of Rohit Shaped My Understanding Of Leadership, Says Tilak Varma

Tilak Varma: Evolving from an emerging middle-order prospect into a key finisher and now being Indias T20I vice-captain, left-handed batter Tilak Varma has credited his off-field observations of Rohit Sharma for shaping his understanding of leadership nuances and match awareness. I haven't played under Virat bhai's captaincy but have played under Rohit bhai's captaincy, both in MI and also in the Indian team. So, I have learned a lot of things from him. On the ground, the intensity is very high; there's already so much running through your mind on the field, so you can't take in as much. So, when I am off the field, I discuss a lot of things with him. And, like, when Rohit bhai and Virat bhai were playing, I didn't use to be in the playing eleven. So, sitting outside, I used to observe which bowler Rohit bhai brings on and when, how he uses the bowlers. I used to observe all those things from him, and I've incorporated that into my own approach now while being on the field, Varma told JioStar. Now serving as deputy to T20I captain Shreyas Iyer, Varma noted that the vice-captaincy brings a broader responsibility that extends well beyond on-field tactics it goes into off-field team bonding and player management. First of all, it's a responsibility. So, people start looking at you differently than before, like slightly more senior. Only if you've done something will they hand you the vice-captaincy; they won't just give it like that. So, I feel that a little extra responsibility comes with it, off the field especially. On the field, the captain will take care of things. Obviously, when he isn't there, your turn will come. So, I keep sharing my thoughts with Shreyas. As for the rest of the team's atmosphere, off-field conversations, and players' mindsets, in a team sport, players have their ups and downs, so I observe how you interact with the youngsters and where everyone stands. I look at all of that, and when I get an opportunity on the field, I will use my brain as well, he said. Alongside his expanding leadership profile, Varma further explained about adapting his game to fit the demanding finisher's role after being in his preferred top-order positions. I always say, I prefer batting in the top order. I always love batting at number three. From opening, in the Under-19 World Cup, I played at number three. After that, in the IPL, I played at number four, and from there at five and six. So, I went on to play basically in every position. Since childhood, I've been an opener, so if you tell me to open even now, I'll do it. But I really love batting at three. From opener to three, you can shift easily, because it won't make that much difference. From three to four won't make much difference as well. When you are a number three or four player and then you bat at six or seven, that transition has been really tough. At the same time, when the team needs it, you don't have any other option. You have to earn that position. For that, I worked on myself a lot in practice and mentally on how I can hit while staying still. When you bat early on, the bowlers hit the seam more. When you bat lower down, the mechanics change; the ball gets older, and they bowl more slower balls and yorkers. All these things come into play. So, I prepared myself mentally accordingly and accepted that I have to perform here. Once I did that, I worked on it in practice. Once it gets executed in a match, you get that confidence, and from there, it gets going, he elaborated. With India taking a 1-0 lead through an eight-wicket win in Lucknow over the West Indies and second game to happen in Ranchi on Friday, Varma also revealed that structured visualisation ahead of matches helps him stay clear-headed. When a game is approaching, like if there's a game tomorrow, I visualise; I think about which bowlers the opposition has. What kind of bowlers could come on? Before going to sleep, I just visualise that I'm walking in at this position. I always think about how I can win the game for the team. With India taking a 1-0 lead through an eight-wicket win in Lucknow over the West Indies and second game to happen in Ranchi on Friday, Varma also revealed that structured visualisation ahead of matches helps him stay clear-headed. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

CNMSports 7 Oct 2026 12:38 pm

Ranchi University M.A Result 2026 Out - Check 3rd Semester Result Online @ ranchiuniversity.co.in

Ranchi University has listed the press release for the M.A Semester III Examination 2025 (Session 2024-2026) under PG Results. See where to find it, how to open the PDF, and what the notice does not state.

FreeJobAlert 7 Oct 2026 11:32 am

BCCI names Smriti Mandhana new captain of India women's cricket team

Senior opener Smriti Mandhana was on Tuesday appointed captain of the Indian women's cricket team after Harmanpreet Kaur stepped down from the role. Harmanpreet announced her decision to step down as India captain in a social media post, following a review meeting with the BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia, women's team head coach Amol Muzumdar, and Mandhana in Guwahati on Monday. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announces the appointment of Smriti Mandhana as the captain of the Indian Women's Cricket Team, the BCCI said on their website. Smriti has been one of the leading figures in Indian women's cricket over the years and has played a key role in the team's progress across formats. An experienced international cricketer, she has also demonstrated her leadership qualities in domestic and franchise cricket, most recently leading Royal Challengers Bengaluru to the Women's Premier League titles in 2024 and 2026. Having been part of the Indian team since 2013, Smriti

Business Standard 7 Oct 2026 11:28 am

JioHotstar enters Middle East, North Africa in partnership with STARZPLAY

JioHotstar has said it will enter the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region in partnership with STARZPLAY, expanding its international footprint. The streaming platform, which has over 500 million active users, had last month said it would enter the UK, Canada and Singapore markets, targeting the South Asian diaspora, as part of its global expansion plans. JioHotstar will be available as a dedicated streaming destination within the STARZPLAY app and website, said a joint statement. Audiences across MENA will now gain access to new JioHotstar Originals alongside their release in India, with the content offering audio tracks in up to 10 languages, popular television content from JioStar TV channels, blockbuster films and some of the country's biggest reality franchises, it said. The content spans Hindi, Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Bangla and other languages, with a substantial Malayalam catalogue reflecting the importance of the Malayali audience in the region, the statement ...

Business Standard 7 Oct 2026 10:51 am

Paramount closes Warner merger in historic Hollywood deal

The new company, which will be called Skydance, combines two of the five largest Hollywood film studios, uniting major franchises such as Harry Potter and Mission Impossible

The Hindu Businessline 7 Oct 2026 10:43 am

Drishyam 3 BO day 5: Ajay Devgn starrer on track to beat Drishyam 2's record

Drishyam 3 has collected Rs 216.50 crore net in India in its first five days. If the crime thriller continues its steady run through the week, it could soon surpass its predecessor and claim the title of the franchise's highest-grossing film.

Mid Day 7 Oct 2026 10:34 am

McDonald's hit with class action alleging AI-powered menu price-fixing

The lawsuit, filed on Friday, said McDonald's violated US antitrust law by conspiring with independent franchisees to fix prices using algorithms trained on nonpublic data

Business Standard 7 Oct 2026 10:04 am

Doraemon: Castle Of The Undersea Devil Box Office Day 5: Animated Film Sees 37.6% Growth In India

Directed by Tetsuo Yajima, 'Doraemon: Castle Of The Undersea Devil' is the 45th feature film in the 'Doraemon' franchise and is based on the 1983 film of the same name.

NDTV 7 Oct 2026 9:51 am

Kalyan Jewellers logs 26% rise in Q2 revenue

Kalyan Jewellers plans to launch another four showrooms, under the franchised model, over the course of the current financial year

The Hindu Businessline 7 Oct 2026 9:47 am

Mass Scale Disenfranchisement of Voters Imperils Constitution: Justice Rohinton F. Nariman and Justice Bhuyan

Justice Narimans anxieties that right to vote, as heart of democracy, is in peril and Justice Bhuyans concerns that mass scale disenfranchisement reverses the first step taken to achieve equality in India through right to vote deserve serious consideration to save democracy in India

theleaflet 7 Oct 2026 9:19 am

Drishyam 3 vs Hanuman Ansh Box Office: Ajay Devgn Starrer Soars Early, Devotional Drama Wins Over Time

While Ajay Devgn-starrer benefited from an established franchise and strong star power, 'Hanuman Ansh' started with little buzz before gradually turning into a long-running success.

NDTV 7 Oct 2026 9:13 am

JKCAG, NACM delegation meets Assembly Speaker

Srinagar, Oct 6:A joint delegation of the Jammu & Kashmir Climate Action Group (JKCAG) and National Alliance on Community Forest Resources & Minor Forest Produce (NACM) met Speaker of the J&K Legislative Assembly Abdul Rahim Rather in Srinagar on Tuesday. The delegation, led by Dr Raja Muzaffar Bhat, Chairman JKCAG, and Dileep Gode, National Convener NACM, presented a memorandum to the Speaker demanding enforcement of the Forest Rights Act (FRA) in J&K, as thousands of claims filed by people over the last four to five years remain undecided. The delegation consisted of members of the national-level steering committee of NACM from five states: Maharashtra, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand and Himachal Pradesh. The delegation raised issues of pending FRA claims in Poonch district and evictions carried out in Hari village of Surankot a few years ago by the Forest Department. The Jammu & Kashmir Climate Action Group (JKCAG) and National Alliance on Community Forest Resources & Minor Forest Produce (NACM) suggested holding training programmes and workshops for government officials, especially those from the Tribal Affairs, Revenue, Forest and Rural Development departments, as well as community-based organisations. The meeting was held immediately after the conclusion of a two-day National Workshop on the Forest Rights Act in Poonch, which brought together legal experts, environmentalists, civil society members, rights advocates and forest-dependent community representatives from Himachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Maharashtra, Jharkhand and J&K. The JKCAG and NACM delegation discussed best practices from states such as Odisha, Maharashtra, Himachal Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh, where implementation of Individual Forest Rights (IFR), Community Forest Rights (CFR) and Minor Forest Produce (MFP) governance has contributed to rural livelihoods and forest conservation. The J&K Assembly Speaker assured the delegation that he would take up the matter directly with the Chief Minister and the Minister for Forest/Tribal Affairs to prioritise FRA enforcement across all districts of J&K. He also assured the delegation of working towards organising more training workshops and seminars on the legislation. The NACM delegation requested Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather to visit Maharashtra for an on-the-spot assessment of areas where FRA implementation has changed the lives of forest-dwelling tribal communities. In addition to Dileep Gode and Dr Raja Muzaffar Bhat, the delegation members who met the Speaker included Sandeep Minhas from Kullu, Himachal Pradesh; Advocate Virender Kumar from Ranchi, Jharkhand; Kailash Babu from Kandhamal, Odisha; Dr Kishore Moge from Yavatmal, Maharashtra; Keshav Gurnoole from Gadchiroli, Maharashtra; Dr Chitaranjan from Kalahandi, Odisha; Bharat Namdev from Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh; and Owais Mir from J&K.

Greater Kashmir 7 Oct 2026 6:54 am

New OTT releases of the week (October 5 - October 11): 10 new movies and shows on Netflix, Prime Video, JioHotstar and more

The October OTT lineup has something for different moods. Spider-Man: Brand New Day and Insidious: Out of the Further cater to franchise fans, while Reporting Live and Animals bring darker thrillers. Mandaadi and Epic First Semester add regional stories to the mix, while Take Charge of My Heart offers a lighter Korean romance with a supernatural twist. Read on to know when and where to watch them on OTT.

The Economic Times 7 Oct 2026 6:36 am

About 76% voter turnout in Nagaon Lok Sabha bypoll

Election officials said the figure is expected to increase as voters who entered polling stations before 5 p.m. were allowed to exercise their franchise

The Hindu 7 Oct 2026 3:02 am

Karnatakas Inaugural Pickleball League To Begin From Oct 9

The inaugural league will feature seven franchise teams and 56 players

Deccan Chronicle 6 Oct 2026 11:04 pm

Did You Overpay For A Big Mac? McDonald's Sued Over AI-Powered Menu Price-Fixing

A proposed US class action accuses McDonald's of using AI-powered pricing tools to coordinate menu prices across franchises, raising fresh antitrust concerns.

NDTV 6 Oct 2026 10:59 pm

NHM signs pact with Piramal Foundation

The Times of India 6 Oct 2026 10:38 pm

17 MGMMCH students suspended for ragging, indiscipline

The Times of India 6 Oct 2026 10:01 pm

Street play in Jharia to encourage relocation

The Times of India 6 Oct 2026 9:45 pm

HC directs immediate repairs, inspections of govt schools

The Times of India 6 Oct 2026 9:43 pm

Bandh call gets mixed response across 5 dists

The Times of India 6 Oct 2026 9:39 pm

FIR against BJP BLA over 'false' Form-7 applications, first in Telangana

An FIR has been lodged against BJP Booth Level Agent S Balachander for allegedly filing false voter deletion requests. The complaint, initiated by an election official, triggered a police inquiry. Congress leaders claim these submissions aim to unjustly disenfranchise valid voters from the electoral list. In response, Telanganas Chief Electoral Officer has ordered District Election Officers to take action against these fraudulent applications.

The Times of India 6 Oct 2026 9:31 pm

Postgraduate student arrested for raping intern

The Times of India 6 Oct 2026 9:29 pm

Bhuvneshwar Kumar Returns As BCCI Announces T20I Squad For New Zealand Tour

T20 World Cup: Senior pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar has earned a recall to Indias T20I squad for the five-match series against New Zealand, marking his return to the national side after nearly four years, as the BCCI announced the Shreyas Iyer-led team on Tuesday. The 36-year-old last represented India in the T20 World Cup semi-final against England at the Adelaide Oval in November 2022. A strong run in the Indian Premier League over the last two seasons has helped the experienced seamer force his way back into the national setup. Bhuvneshwar claimed 45 wickets across the last two IPL editions for Royal Challengers Bengaluru and played an important role in the franchises title-winning campaigns. His consistency with the new ball and wealth of experience have now earned him another opportunity in Indias T20I setup. The pacer had recently been named captain of Indias squad for the Hong Kong Sixes, but his inclusion in the T20I squad means he will miss the tournament. Apart from Bhuvneshwars return, the other notable change is the inclusion of Varun Chakaravarthy, who returns after recovering from the side strain that ruled him out following the first T20I against Afghanistan last month. Ravi Bishnoi, who was part of the previous squad, has been left out. India's prime pacer Jasprit Bumrah is also not included in the team, as he is expected to play a major role in the ODI and Test assignment. India will begin the five-match T20I series against New Zealand in Christchurch on October 22, with the second match also scheduled at the same venue on October 24. The teams will then move to Wellington for the third T20I on October 27, followed by matches in Auckland on October 30 and Hamilton on November 1. The BCCI is yet to announce the squads for the ODI and Test legs of the tour. India are scheduled to play five ODIs and two Tests against New Zealand after the T20I series. Meanwhile, the selectors have also picked a 15-member India A squad for three multi-day matches against New Zealand A, providing several players with an opportunity to gain valuable red-ball exposure in conditions similar to those they could encounter during the Test leg. Dhruv Jurel has been named captain, while Rishabh Pant's availability is subject to fitness. India A will play their first multi-day match against New Zealand A in Lincoln from October 24 to 27. The second match will be held in Christchurch from October 31 to November 3, while the third is scheduled in Lincoln from November 7 to 10. Squads: Indias T20I Squad: Shreyas Iyer [C], Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson [WK], Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Ishan Kishan [WK], Tilak Varma [VC], Axar Patel, Shivam Dube, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Naman Dhir, Prince Yadav, Mayank Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Varun Chakaravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav. Squads: Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

CNMSports 6 Oct 2026 9:26 pm

Potholes on key routes raise concerns

The Times of India 6 Oct 2026 9:12 pm

Thattanchavady Assembly constituency records 80. 81% voting in the byelection

It was around 6.29% less than the figure for the Assembly election held in April to constitute the 16thAssembly. As against 79. 97% of the men who turned up to vote, 81. 55% of the women voters exercised their franchise. In addition, 109 electors voted through postal ballot

The Hindu 6 Oct 2026 9:00 pm

GoT, Harry Potter, Batman & more: The $110 billion Hollywood gold mine Paramount just bought

Paramount's acquisition of Warner Bros Discovery brings some of Hollywood's most valuable franchises under one roof, from Batman, Superman and Harry Potter to Game of Thrones, Friends, Dune, The Lord of the Rings and The Matrix. The $110 billion deal also combines two major studios, streaming platforms and vast entertainment libraries.

The Economic Times 6 Oct 2026 8:39 pm

Civic authorities, committees gear up for safe Durga Puja

The Times of India 6 Oct 2026 8:37 pm

HC Summons DGP, home secretary in minors detention case

The Times of India 6 Oct 2026 8:36 pm

IMD yellow alert raises concerns for Puja prep

The Times of India 6 Oct 2026 8:20 pm

Explosions in Hazaribag forest kill 3 animals

The Times of India 6 Oct 2026 8:15 pm