Lawrence Dallaglio is selling his World Cup medal to survive bankruptcy
Highlights Former England captain Lawrence Dallaglio is auctioning his 2003 Rugby World Cup winner's medal, expected to fetch between 50,000 and 80,000 The sale follows a divorce and subsequent bankruptcy, which Dallaglio has discussed candidly, including seeking therapy for what he called self-pity His full memorabilia collection at Budd's auction house, including Lions and Sevens World Cup items, is valued at around 180,000 in total The auction takes place on October 13 in Northamptonshire There's a particular kind of honesty in a man selling the exact object that proves he once had everything. Lawrence Dallaglio is doing precisely that, on October 13, in an auction room in Northamptonshire. What's actually going under the hammer The centrepiece is the medal Dallaglio was handed in Sydney on November 22, 2003, moments after England beat Australia 20-17 in extra time to win the Rugby World Cup still, more than two decades on, the single greatest night in English rugby's history. Auction house Budd's has valued it between 50,000 and 80,000. It won't be going alone. Dallaglio is also parting with his 2007 World Cup runners-up medal (estimated 10,000), his 2003 Six Nations winner's medal (5,000), medals from his Wasps career (8,000 apiece), and a British and Irish Lions cap (5,500). Altogether, the collection carries an estimated value of around 180,000. Why now Dallaglio was declared bankrupt after his divorce, a sequence of events he laid out plainly on The High Performance podcast earlier this month: As a result of getting divorced, I was made bankrupt. I had some financial problems I could've done things a lot better. It wasn't the first brush with it. Two years earlier, he'd narrowly avoided bankruptcy by agreeing to settle debts that included a 700,000 tax bill owed to HMRC. This summer, his bankruptcy terms were extended after a High Court application, with his discharge suspended. It's a steep fall for a man once reportedly earning 240,000 a year in his playing prime, with a net worth estimated at 5 million. What's struck people isn't just the bankruptcy it's how openly he's talked about what came with it. Dallaglio has said he sought therapy afterward, describing a period of what he called self-pity that followed the divorce and financial collapse. For a sport built on stoicism, and a player once defined by his physical dominance in the England back row, it's a rare and unusually direct admission. English scrumhalf Kyran Bracken splashes beer on number 8 Lawrence Dallaglio as he holds the the William Webb Ellis Cup after the Rugby World Cup final between Australia and England at the Olympic Park Stadium in Sydney, 22 November 2003. England defeated Australia 20-17 during extra time. AFP PHOTO/Christophe SIMON CHRISTOPHE SIMON / AFP The player behind the medal Dallaglio spent his entire club career at one place Wasps, from his teenage years until retirement in 2008, racking up 326 appearances without ever pulling on another club shirt. He won 85 caps for England as a flanker and number eight, captained the side, and toured three times with the British and Irish Lions. Along the way he collected five Premiership titles, two European titles and four Six Nations championships with Wasps and England. He's one of a small handful of players in the sport's history to have won both the Rugby World Cup and the Rugby Sevens World Cup England lifted the Sevens title in 1993, a decade before the bigger prize in Sydney. He was inducted into the World Rugby Hall of Fame in 2016, and has spent the years since retirement building a second career as a broadcaster and rugby pundit. What the medal was actually worth, before the auction estimate Budd's own description of the lot captures why this particular piece of metal matters more than most sporting memorabilia: it was he pinnacle of world rugby and the singular greatest achievement in English rugby history. Dallaglio was part of a squad Martin Johnson lifting the Webb Ellis Cup, Jonny Wilkinson's drop goal in the dying seconds of extra time that is still, to this day, the only England side to have won the tournament. Whatever it fetches on October 13, the number won't come close to capturing what it meant to earn it in the first place. That's precisely what makes selling it now, to get through a chapter of his life with considerably less glory attached, such a strikingly human thing to watch a former captain do in public.
Virat has played the most World Cups, he knows the importance: Rohit
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 29 (IANS) Rohit Sharma believes Virat Kohli needs no reminder about the magnitude of a World Cup, with the former India captain saying their conversations ahead of the 2027 ODI showpiece are instead centred on the practical details of helping India win matches and the tournament. Kohli is set to feature in his fifth 50-over World Cup in 2027, having previously played in the 2011, 2015, 2019 and 2023 editions. Rohit, who has shared the dressing room with Kohli across much of their international careers, said the experience of playing at the highest level means the importance of the tournament is already firmly understood. He has been playing for so many years. Whether its the 27 World Cup or the 23 World Cup, theres no need to explain it to him. World Cup is World Cup. And Im pretty sure that everyone who is going to be part of the team understands the importance of a World Cup. And specially Kohli. I mean, the one who has played the most World Cups, I think in this team, its him. He will have, yes. In this team, yes. In this team. 50-over World Cup: he played 2011, 15, 19, 23. Four World Cups he has played. This will be the fifth. So obviously, he has played the most, so he knows the importance. He knows the importance of the World Cup, Rohit said while speaking to JioStar ahead of India's second ODI against West Indies on Wednesday. Rohit said the pairs discussions are therefore less about the significance of the tournament and more about situations that arise during matches. Their conversations, he explained, are often focused on decision-making while batting together. So, this discussion does not happen. The discussion is about what we can do. When we are batting together, we are discussing about whom to attack, whom to take a single off, what to do. Sometimes something happens in my leg, so I tell him, Brother, run carefully, Im feeling something. So he is understanding that way. And, you know, such conversations keep happening. So its been pretty fun, Rohit added. Despite changes in their respective roles over the years, Rohit said the central objective has remained constant. Whether one of them has been captain or a senior member of the side, the focus has continued to be on collective success. Nothing has changed from when we started to now. Obviously, were different individuals in terms of how we carry ourselves on the field, but other than that, goal, thinking for the team is pretty much the same: that we have to win the match. We have to win the World Cup, we have to win the tournament, we have to win the series, we have to do well for the team. Which people can we help? That is completely the same, he stated. The comments underline the nature of the partnership between two players who have been part of Indias white-ball setup since the late 2000s, with their experience now informing the teams preparations for another World Cup cycle. Watch Rohit Sharmas exclusive interview on JioHotstar and Star Sports Network on 30th September Watch the ICC Mens ODI World Cup schedule announcement on October 1, on JioHotstar and Star Sports.
Asian Games: History beckons as unbeaten India face South Korea in womens hockey semifinal
Digital Desk | Kakamigahara, Sep 29 (IANS) An unbeaten India will take on South Korea in the womens hockey semifinal of the Asian Games 2026 on Wednesday, with the defending Asian Games silver medallists needing two more victories to end a 44-year wait for a second continental gold. India have been flawless in Pool B, winning all five matches and scoring 66 goals in the process. But their biggest test of the tournament so far awaits at the Kawasaki Juko Stadium, where South Korea will provide a considerably tougher challenge than the opposition India encountered in the pool stage. The Indian campaign began with a 19-0 rout of Uzbekistan before they overwhelmed Indonesia 17-1 and Thailand 20-1. They then survived their sternest pool-stage test against hosts Japan, winning 3-1, before signing off with a 7-0 victory over Singapore. South Korea finished second in Pool A with four wins from five matches. Their only setback came against group winners China, who defeated them 3-0, while an 8-0 win over Bangladesh was their biggest victory of the campaign. Indias attacking depth has been one of the defining features of their run. Drag-flick specialist Deepika has been the tournaments leading scorer with 21 goals, while Navneet Kaur has contributed 10, including seven from open play. Rutuja Dadaso Pisal has seven goals, with Lalremsiami and Ishika adding six and five respectively. Deepikas dual role in the forward line and as Indias primary penalty-corner weapon gives the team an added dimension, while Navneet has also been an option during set-piece situations. At the other end, India have two experienced options in goal. Captain Savita brings years of international experience, while Bichu Devi has also impressed between the posts. The duo could have a considerably busier evening against a South Korean attack led by midfielder Seungae Park, who has scored eight goals in the tournament. Chief coach Sjoerd Marijne acknowledged that the semifinal would represent a significant step up in intensity. For us, training is the way to stay in rhythmEverybody knows what is expected from them. We have played opponents against who the challenge was not that big, except Japan. Now its a big challenge in the semi-finals of the Asian Games and we are looking forward to play against South Korea. Indias last womens hockey gold at the Asian Games came in 1982. Since then, the team has had to wait for another opportunity to reclaim the continental title. That wait could be reduced to one match if India overcome South Korea. The semifinal begins at 7 pm local time (3:30 pm IST) on Wednesday. With a place in the gold-medal match at stake, the five-match winning streak will matter far less than what India produce over the next 60 minutes.
You know the bloke in the picture. What about the rest? The post Can you name Englands 10 most-capped goalkeepers of all-time? appeared first on Planet Football .
Can India end 44-year wait for women's hockey gold?
The Indian women's hockey team, unbeaten in the Asian Games, is set to face South Korea in the semifinal, aiming to end a 44-year wait for a gold medal. With a strong performance in the pool stage and a superior world ranking, India enters the match as favourites, relying on key players like Deepika and Navneet Kaur, and solid goalkeeping.
R Lounge Puts Goa Through a Cocktail Laboratory
From Dukshiri feni and fish curry to banana-peel saccharum, Arpora saline and hing-washed brandy, the bar looks to everyday Goa.
TN BJP chief Nainar Nagenthran hails Vithya Ramrajs Asian Games bronze and national record
Digital Desk | Chennai, Sep 29 (IANS) Tamil Nadu BJP president Nainar Nagenthran congratulated athlete Vithya Ramraj after she won bronze in the womens 400-metre hurdles at the Asian Games, breaking a national record that had stood for 42 years. In a post on X, Nainar Nagenthran praised the Tamil Nadu runner for finishing the race in 54.75 seconds. He described her as an example of womens strength and confidence and said her achievement had brought pride to both the state and the country. Heartiest congratulations to Tamil Nadus talented athlete and a shining symbol of womens power, Ms Vidya Ramraj, on winning the bronze medal in the womens 400m hurdles at the Asian Games, clocking an impressive 54.75 seconds and breaking a remarkable 42-year-old national record, he posted on X. She surpassed the previous national record of 55.42 seconds, set by legendary Indian athlete P. T. Usha at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics, creating a new milestone in Indian athletics. This historic achievement by the daughter of Tamil Nadu has brought immense pride to Tamil Nadu and the entire nation. My heartfelt appreciation and best wishes to Ms Vidya Ramraj, a true example of determination, hard work, perseverance and the spirit to achieve excellence. May she continue to scale greater heights, inspire countless young athletes and bring even greater glory to India on the international stage! he added. Ramrajs time bettered the 55.42-second mark set by P. T. Usha at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics. She had equalled Ushas record at the previous Asian Games, but went faster in Mondays final to claim the mark outright. Nainar Nagenthran said the result showed what young athletes could achieve through confidence, hard work and perseverance. He wished Ramraj continued success and expressed hope that she would inspire more young sportspersons while bringing further recognition to India on the international stage. Maryam Karim of the United Arab Emirates won gold in 54.31 seconds, while Kazakhstans Adelina Zems took silver in 54.58 seconds. Ramraj finished 0.17 seconds behind the silver medallist. Fellow Indian Anu Raghavan placed fifth with a personal-best 55.88 seconds. At the 2023 Asian Games, Vithya had equalled PT Ushas mark in Hangzhou before taking sole ownership of the record in Aichi-Nagoya. She had earlier been part of the Indian team that won silver in the mixed 4x400-metre relay. Nainar Nagenthran said Ramrajs determination to improve on an established record would encourage young people pursuing their own goals, particularly aspiring women athletes. He offered his congratulations and best wishes for her future competitions.
At just 15 years old, Sinchana from Bengaluru has not only developed a keen interest in finance but also manages an impressive investment portfolio valued at 13.9 lakh. With the support of her parents, she acquired several financial certifications and diligently tracks market trends. Furthermore, she's passionate about promoting financial literacy in schools and has set an ambitious goal to educate one million students while balancing her academic studies.
UAE to Invest $25 Billion More in India, Focus on Ports, Energy, Tech
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has expressed intent to invest an additional $25 billion in India, with an ultimate goal of reaching $100 billion in investments, Union Minister Piyush Goyal announced. This comes as both nations plan to enhance cooperation in shipping, ports, energy, and emerging technologies, against a backdrop of expanding bilateral trade.
Vinicius Jr is set to spearhead Brazil's team when they face India on October 3. But not many know that the Real Madrid superstar has already played in the country before.
Cricket Ireland appoint Ed Joyce as high performance batting coach
Cricket Ireland have appointed former international Ed Joyce as their high performance batting coach, with the former Ireland and England batter set to work with the senior men's team as well as the country's male talent pathway. Joyce begins his new role immediately and will work alongside men's head coach Gary Wilson and high performance director Graeme West, according to Cricinfo. Once I retired from playing, staying involved in Irish cricket was a high priority for me, Joyce said in a statement, according to Cricinfo. When I look at the Ireland men's side over recent years, it's obvious to see the amount of hard work that has gone on behind the scenes in preparing our players to be competitive on the international stage. I look forward to getting involved in this work and perhaps adding some insights and knowledge to push the batting group forward. The talent is there, the goal is now consistency, he added. Joyce, who represented both Ireland and England during his playing ca...
Yoane Wissa Stars As DR Congo Beat Zimbabwe 2-1 In Africa Cup of Nations Qualifier
Yoane Wissa scored the first goal and created the second as the Democratic Republic of Congo spoilt a Zimbabwe homecoming by winning a 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier 2-1 in Harare on Monday.
Chennai Corporation vaccinates over one lakh stray dogs against rabies
Digital Desk | Chennai, Sep 29 (IANS) More than one lakh stray dogs have received anti-rabies shots under a campaign by the Greater Chennai Corporation, taking the 75-day drive past the halfway point of its two-lakh target. The civic body said 1,00,378 dogs had been vaccinated as of September 25. Launched on August 11, the campaign uses mobile teams to reach stray dogs in different parts of Chennai. The animals are also being given medication to control internal and external parasites. Ambattur leads the zones covered so far, with 21,844 dogs vaccinated. Madhavaram follows with 15,038, while teams have vaccinated 12,477 dogs in Tondiarpet and 12,313 in Tiruvottiyur. Anna Nagar has recorded 11,895 vaccinations, Royapuram 8,598 and Manali 7,200. Another 4,343 dogs have been covered in Alandur. The drive began in the northern zones of Tiruvottiyur, Manali and Tondiarpet before expanding to other areas. Vaccination work is now underway in Kodambakkam, Thiru-Vi-Ka Nagar and Perungudi, as the corporation works towards its target. The figures show that the campaign has passed 50 per cent of its stated goal, with 99,622 vaccinations still needed to reach two lakh. Ambattur alone accounts for more than one-fifth of all vaccinations recorded by September 25. The corporation has not provided a zone-wise estimate of the number of stray dogs yet to be vaccinated. The number of shots delivered in each area, therefore, shows how much work teams have completed, but does not establish what proportion of that zones stray dogs have been covered. The vaccination programme combines rabies prevention with parasite control during each encounter with a dog. Giving both treatments together allows the mobile teams to attend to the animals while moving through neighbourhoods. The corporation has not given separate figures for the number of dogs receiving parasite medication. With the halfway milestone reached, further progress will depend on how quickly teams can cover areas where vaccination is underway and continue the drive across the city. The civic bodys stated target remains two lakh stray dogs over 75 days. Its September 25 count is the latest reported measure of progress since the campaign began in August.
Camera traps deployed to identify animal behind goat deaths in TN's Coimbatore
Digital Desk | Coimbatore, Sep 29 (IANS) Forest officials have installed four camera traps at Ramya Garden in Mavuthampathi panchayat after three goats were killed there. Residents suspect a leopard, but the Madukkarai Forest Range has yet to identify the animal responsible. The goats owner, Velusamy, alerted forest personnel after finding two of them dead on Monday morning. The third goat was missing and is believed to have been carried away. The incident has caused concern among residents, who have asked officials to establish whether a leopard is moving through the area. A forest department official said staff found pugmarks near the site, but the impressions were too unclear to identify the animal. The personnel also searched the adjoining forest area for remains of the missing goat. The camera traps have been placed to record any movement and help confirm what killed the animals. The owner believes a leopard carried away one of the goats. We cannot confirm that from the pugmarks available, the official said. The department expects to examine the camera footage and establish whether a leopard is present by Tuesday. A special team has been deployed to patrol the area and respond to any further sightings or attacks. Forest personnel had conducted regular patrols there until about a month ago, officials said. More recently, they had been assigned to operations aimed at driving wild elephants away from human settlements. The department has urged livestock owners to keep goats and cattle inside secure sheds, particularly at night. Officials said this advice had been given repeatedly, but animals were still being left exposed to attacks. They asked residents to report any sightings promptly so staff could verify them and take appropriate action. The official said Velusamy could seek compensation for the loss of his goats by submitting an application. The department would process the claim under the applicable procedure. For now, officials are treating the identity of the predator as an open question. They said the missing goat and unclear pugmarks were insufficient to establish that a leopard was involved. Camera footage, along with continued patrols, would guide the next steps. Forest staff will continue monitoring the location while the camera traps remain in place. The department said further measures would depend on what the cameras record and on any fresh reports from the area.
Kohli: 15,000 runs is a big number, but the goal is only to win matches
Star India batter Virat insists personal milestones are never a priority
Europe's biggest chip company sells nothing at home, ASML exec says
ASML, Europe's biggest chip company, is currently selling no chipmaking machines in Europe, says executive Frank Heemskerk, blaming a lack of investment and zero new chip factories. As the US, China and India court ASML, the EU's Chips Act is falling short of its 2030 goal to double Europe's global chip market share. CEO Christophe Fouquet and CFO Roger Dassen have also warned Brussels over AI regulation and tech sovereignty.
SFC edge SAO 2 1 for second successive win, AKSA end winless run
Sora FC SFC beat SAO, Kakching 2 1 for their second successive win in the 22nd KK Memorial 1st Division Football Tournament 2026 as AKSA, Kakching Khunou ended their two game winless run by thrashing PFC 5 1 SAO enjoyed the lead early in the 11th minute through M Nehal but Yunus set up the recovery path for SFC by scoring the equaliser in the 42nd minute The match looked to end in a 1 1 draw but substitute Arif Khan snatched the win for SFC late 4 minutes into the stoppage time Later in the day, AKSA ended their wait for a win in the tournament by thrashing PFC by 5 1 goals S Nanao starred with a double 61
Nations League PIX: France pip Belgium; Italy rout Turkey
France secured a late 1-0 victory over Belgium in the Nations League thanks to a goal from substitute Michael Olise, marking a winning start for coach Zinedine Zidane. Meanwhile, Italy bounced back from an earlier defeat to thrash Turkey 4-1, with goals from Bastoni, Frattesi, Kayode, and Esposito. Other Nations League results saw Bosnia beat Romania and Sweden overcome Poland.
European rivers are improving, but not fast enough to meet 2030 goals
The quality of European rivers has improved in recent years, but not at the pace required to meet the environmental targets set for 2030. This is one of the main conclusions of a study led by researchers Mar
In 1989, European Space Agency's Hipparcos mission looked to understand positions, distances, motions, brightness and colors of stars for the first time. In 1993, the operations were ceased after the fulfillment of the mission goals.
Quote of the day by Kevin Costner stresses on the need to relax and not worry too much about small problems. And in turn, ignore important parts of life. The saying talks about misplaced energy, neglected priorities, distraction and human nature. The quote encourages people to review their worries, value relationships, accept what they cannot control and focus on family, personal goals, health and inner peace.
Hart trusts Man City chair Al Mubarak over ruling
Former Manchester City goalkeeper Joe Hart believes club chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak's claims they are innocent of breaking the Premier League's financial rules.
Tackling food loss and waste Indias opportunity
Cutting food losses can strengthen food security, conserve resources and advance climate goals
Gold in Olympics: Asian Games champion Suruchi Singh sets sights on next goal
Indian shooter Suruchi Singh thanked people for the warm welcome and blessings after winning gold at the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, saying she hopes to continue winning more medals for India and has her sights set on Olympic gold. Suruchi, along with his mixed doubles partner Kamaljeet, clinched the gold medal in the 10m air pistol mixed team event at the Asian Games. The Indian duo finished with a total of 484.6 points in the final to beat South Korea, which won silver with 478.0 points. Iran claimed the bronze medal with 415.8 points, while Indonesia finished with 349.4 points and was eliminated. Speaking to ANI in Jhajjar on Monday, Suruchi thanked the country for the warm welcome and blessings, saying she hoped for continued support as she aims to win more medals for India. She also said her
Net mopup under small savings schemes set to exceed Rs 3.6 lakh crore target
In the first four months of the fiscal year 2026-27, net collections in small savings schemes have surged by an impressive 56% compared to last year, providing a significant boost towards meeting budgetary goals. The appealing savings rates continue to encourage government-backed savings, demonstrating that investor confidence in consistent returns remains strong, even with rising retail participation in the equity markets.
Maha CM clears Rs 1,800 crore plan for ChakanHinjawadi
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Sep 28 (IANS) Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Monday granted in-principle approval for an integrated infrastructure development plan to ease traffic congestion, improve road networks, and strengthen stormwater drainage systems in the Chakan and Hinjawadi industrial areas. Under the initiative, projects worth Rs 1,400 crore have been sanctioned for Chakan, alongside a dedicated Rs 426.54 crore framework for Hinjawadi. Pune District Collector Jitendra Dudi said execution is scheduled to begin in December to ensure timely completion, with the primary goal of improving traffic flow and drainage capacity before the next monsoon season. CM Fadnavis directed the Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC), Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA), Public Works Department (PWD), Zilla Parishad and allied agencies to pool resources and work in synergy. The administration will consolidate funding and logistics to overhaul roads, public utilities and drainage infrastructure. Encroachments along 78 km of natural streams have restricted water flow. The plan includes clearing streams, constructing roadside drains, increasing culvert discharge capacity and setting up water retention facilities. With 7080 per cent of encroachments already removed, the remaining will be cleared in phases. The target is to restore all natural drainage routes by June 2027, alongside building 38 km of roadside stormwater drains. After analysing Chakans 498 km road network, the team selected 75 km of high-priority roads for immediate upgrading. These stretches will feature pedestrian walkways, improved drainage and safety infrastructure. Work will use existing right-of-way space by removing encroachments, avoiding fresh land acquisition. The project will also provide for underground utility ducts. To reduce accident risks, upgraded roads will include footpaths, safe crossing zones and traffic management systems. Pedestrian facilities will also be incorporated into the upcoming National Highway flyover. To curb congestion, 500 additional buses will be introduced along key commuter routes. Six major intersections will undergo scientific redesign and be equipped with AI-driven traffic signals, CCTV cameras, radars, ANPR systems, and a centralised command centre. MIDC has designated five parking facilities to tackle unauthorised roadside parking by heavy goods vehicles. Private sector participation and local industrial support will fund beautification of medians, public toilets, and bus shelters. The Chakan industrial water supply network is targeted for completion by 2027, with management shifting to the Maharashtra Jeevan Authority (MJP). A new 100 MVA power substation will break ground in December. A centralised waste processing facility will handle garbage from 14 villages and two municipal councils under PMRDA oversight. An AI-powered Intelligent Traffic Management System (ITMS) and Command & Control Centre will oversee traffic regulation across Chakan, Talegaon and Hinjawadi. To support local traffic police, 100 personnel from the Maharashtra Security Force (MSF) will be deployed in Chakan starting October 1. For Hinjawadi, Rs 426 crore has been approved to mitigate severe traffic congestion. Six acres of land have been allocated to address power supply issues, and 100 MSF personnel will be deployed for traffic control. Waste management services will be streamlined through the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) or Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC).
Alan Watts' quote remind individuals about the significance of experiencing the present moment. Many people suffer from anxiety and burnout due to the pressure of achieving future goals. He argues that true fulfillment comes from appreciating life as it occurs and not as a means to an end. Individuals are encouraged to redefine success beyond external achievements and to embrace simple existence.
India showcases forest and landscape restoration initiatives at COFO 28
Digital Desk | Rome, Sep 28 (IANS) India on Monday highlighted its significant achievement in forest and landscape restoration and reaffirmed its commitment to sustainable forest management, climate action and resilient forest landscapes at the Twenty-eighth Session of the FAO (Food and Agriculture Organisation) Committee on Forestry (COFO 28), being held in Rome from September 28 to October 2, said the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. India highlighted the consistent progress made in enhancing its forest resources. The countrys forest and tree cover stands at 82.74 million hectares, accounting for 25.17 per cent of its geographical area. The FAO Global Forest Resources Assessment 2025 ranks India 9th globally in forest area and 3rd in net annual forest area gain. Forests and trees also remain central to Indias climate commitments, highlighted the ministry. It said that India has created an additional carbon sink of 2.29 billion tonnes of CO2 equivalent by 2021 and has enhanced its ambition to create an additional carbon sink of 3.54.0 billion tonnes of CO2 equivalent by 2035, compared with 2005 levels. The Statement further highlighted its commitment under the Bonn Challenge to restore 26 million hectares of degraded and deforested land by 2030, of which 21.76 million hectares have already been brought under restoration. Further, major landscape restoration initiatives being undertaken were showcased, said the Ministry. It noted that under the Aravalli Green Wall, approximately 6.45 million hectares of degraded land have been identified for restoration. In coastal landscapes, the MISHTI initiative is advancing mangrove restoration while strengthening climate resilience and supporting local livelihoods. India also highlighted that the number of Ramsar Sites in the country has reached 101, the Ministry said. It said India also showcased Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam Plant4Mother, a whole-of-government and whole-of-society initiative under which more than 3.5 billion saplings have been planted. It underlined the need for effective and sustainable financing, particularly for developing countries, and encouraged FAO to strengthen support for accessing climate, biodiversity and blended finance and for developing long-term restoration programmes, noted the Ministry. India also called for stronger coherence between FAOs forestry work, the Global Forest Goals, and other forest-related international processes, along with enhanced South-South and triangular cooperation to share knowledge, best practices, and scalable solutions. The country reaffirmed its commitment to working with FAO and Member States in shaping the proposed UN Decade for Afforestation and Reforestation in line with Sustainable Forest Management, 20272036, to build a coherent continuum from restoration of degraded ecosystems to resilient, productive and inclusive forest landscapes, the Ministry emphasised.
MSRTCs E-Lalpari by 2037; goal of 100% electric fleet
India-Jordan trade: Sitharaman seeks deeper ties, $5 billion target by 2030
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman met with Jordan's Minister of Planning Zeina Zeid Toukan in Doha. The two ministers discussed ways to enhance bilateral cooperation in various sectors, including food security and trade. Sitharaman emphasized the goal of reaching $5 billion in bilateral trade by 2030. Jordan expressed interest in strengthening ties with India, particularly in energy and infrastructure.
Kolkata to host India Energy Week for the first time from January 2831
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 28 (IANS) Kolkata will host the India Energy Week (IEW) for the first time from January 2831, 2027, bringing the countrys flagship global energy platform to eastern India as the sector grapples with rising energy demand and a rapidly changing global energy landscape, it was announced on Monday. The fifth edition of India Energy Week will be held at the New Town Convention Centre under the theme Unlocking Innovation. Securing Energy. Shaping Tomorrow, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas said. The event is expected to bring together more than 75,000 energy professionals, 700-plus international exhibitors and key decision-makers from across the global energy sector to discuss energy security, affordability, sustainability, technology and investment. Held under the patronage of the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, India Energy Week has expanded significantly since its debut in Bengaluru in 2023. The fourth edition, held in Goa in 2026, attracted more than 75,000 energy professionals, over 700 exhibiting companies, participants from more than 120 countries and more than 6,500 conference delegates. IEW 2027 will focus on technologies, innovations and partnerships aimed at strengthening energy security while supporting affordable and sustainable energy systems, particularly across countries in the Global South. The conference and exhibition will cover a wide range of areas across the energy value chain, including oil and gas, LNG, refining and petrochemicals, hydrogen, biofuels, digitalisation and artificial intelligence, besides other emerging energy technologies. The Ministry said the move to Kolkata marks a new chapter for India Energy Week by bringing the event to eastern India for the first time. It will provide businesses, institutions and energy stakeholders in the region with greater opportunities to engage with international partners and participate in discussions shaping the global energy sector. The international participation at IEW has also grown alongside the event's expanding scale. At the 2026 edition, 17 ministers and deputy ministers from countries including the UAE, Canada, the Netherlands, Oman, Brunei, Myanmar and Tanzania participated in the event. International organisations such as the International Energy Forum, BIMSTEC and the Eurasian Economic Union also participated in IEW 2026.
Radico Khaitan flies Rampur, Sangam whiskies into Scotchs backyard
Radico Khaitan has extended its luxury whisky brands, including Rampur and Sangam, to four major UK airports. The company aims to increase the visibility of its products among international travellers through this expansion. More than 170 million passengers travelled through these airports in 2025, presenting a significant opportunity. Their goal is to build brand presence and recognition for Indian spirits globally.
The Bill Gates Foundation has pledged $1 billion towards the development of equitable AI solutions for education and healthcare. With a special focus on enhancing educational tools across global schools, $400 million is earmarked for this initiative. By 2045, the goal is to help 10 million Americans achieve meaningful credentials.
SpaceXs Supersized Starship Reaches Orbit for the First Time
The spacecraft almost didn't achieve the long-desired goal after one of its engines shut down too soon. But with everything else working well and the bad engine no longer needed, flight controllers decided after several tense minutes to proceed as planned.
Dooley points to deeper problems behind Bangladesh's defeat
Thomas Dooley believes Bangladesh's problems run much deeper than the 1-0 defeat to Singapore, pointing to the lack of a strong domestic league, limited preparation time for the national team and the absence of a reliable goalscorer as major obstacles to progress.
Asian Games: PGTI prez Kapil Dev backs Indian golfers to make their mark
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 28 (IANS) Professional Golf Tour of India (PGTI) President and legendary Indian sportsman Kapil Dev has extended his best wishes to Indian mens and womens golf teams ahead of the golf competition at the Asian Games 2026 in Japan. The Indian contingent comprises Yuvraj Sandhu, Saptak Talwar and Veer Ahlawat in the mens section, and Aditi Ashok, Diksha Dagar and Pranavi Urs in the womens section. Kapil Dev, President, PGTI, said, Representing India at the Asian Games is the highest honour. I extend my best wishes to Veer, Saptak, Yuvraj, Aditi, Diksha and Pranavi as they prepare to compete for the country in Japan. Each of them has earned this opportunity through determination, discipline and consistently strong performances. They possess the talent, experience and temperament to perform successfully on this major international stage. Exhorting the Indian golfers to approach the competition with confidence, Kapil Dev added, My message to them is simple: believe in yourselves, play fearlessly and give it everything you have. The responsibility of representing the country should inspire you to raise your game. Stay focused, trust your preparation and play every shot with pride. The entire Indian golfing fraternity is behind you. Go out there, compete hard and make India proud. Amandeep Johl, CEO, PGTI, said, Yuvraj, Veer and Saptak have earned this opportunity through consistent performances, resilience and a strong competitive temperament. Their place in the Indian contingent is a proud moment for us and reflects the strength of our tour and the international pathway provided by the PGTI. All three possess the experience and ability to mount a strong medal challenge. We wish them, along with Aditi, Diksha and Pranavi, every success at the Asian Games. The Indian mens trio will make its Asian Games debut with strong credentials and considerable experience of competing on the international stage. Yuvraj Sandhu has been a regular on the Asian Tour and has been playing on the DP World Tour this season as a result of securing his DP World Tour card after winning the PGTI Order of Merit in 2025. The 29-year-old enjoyed a record-breaking streak on the PGTI in 2025 as he became the first player to win seven titles in a single season. He also set a new record for season earnings, having accumulated INR 1,91,67,100 on the PGTI in 2025. Yuvraj is a winner of 16 professional titles, including one international title on the Asian Development Tour. Yuvraj said, I played in Japan last year, so I have a very fair idea of how the golf courses are. We already have the course mapped out in detail, and the yardages. I think playing on the DP World Tour has polished my game, so I feel ready to tackle the course. Its rained a lot there recently, so the course will definitely be softer. We are expecting ideal weather. Besides, Im pretty much accustomed to playing in such conditions; Ive been playing in the rain four weeks out of the past eight. The 30-year-old Veer Ahlawat has been a regular on the Asian Tour and also competed on the DP World Tour in 2025 after earning his card as a result of emerging as the 2024 PGTI Order of Merit champion. He is a six-time winner on the PGTI, besides a joint runner-up at the Indian Open in 2024. Veer, who had a first-hand look at the course in Japan last month, said, The course was short, and mostly those are the courses we play here in India. I think the main challenge in Japan is to get your wedges tuned in, and spin control will play a major role. In short courses, we have to be very precise on the tee, and most of the time, you do not even have to hit your driver off the tee. You have to manage the course well, make sure that even if you have a few hundred-yard shot, you are there in the game. Saptak Talwar, currently ranked No. 1 on the PGTI Order of Merit, has strengthened his game by dividing his competitive schedule between the European Tour and the PGTI. The 27-year-old Talwar is a two-time winner on the PGTI. Talwar said, The goal was to improve my ranking and qualify, and I am proud that one box has been ticked. The next aim is to make the cut for the LA Olympics. I think I have played enough in Europe, and Europe is about rain, wind, and other elements. I think we like our chances of battling the elements, as Japan is expected to have similar weather at this time. Having the experience under my belt of playing in not-so-pretty weather is definitely an advantage. The six-member contingent reflects the growing strength and competitiveness of Indian golf. The players progress across domestic and international tours underlines the increasing depth of the sport in the country and Indias ability to produce golfers capable of succeeding at the highest level.
Near-impossible angle, inevitable Messi
With his familiar left foot, the Argentine curled the ball toward the far post. It sailed over the goalkeeper, bent through the air and dipped into the top corner, brushing the side netting.
Rajasthan CM unveils projects worth Rs 453 crore in Bharatpur division
Digital Desk | Jaipur, Sep 28 (IANS) Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma on Monday said the states double-engine government was committed not only to making announcements but also to implementing them within a defined timeframe. He addressed a ceremony in Bidyari in the Bayana area of Bharatpur district, where several development projects were inaugurated, and foundation stones were laid. Sharma said 65 major projects worth approximately Rs 453 crore had been inaugurated and foundation stones laid for 184 new projects worth Rs 540 crore across the Bharatpur division. He noted that Bharatpur had received 130 projects worth more than Rs 382 crore, Deeg 24 projects worth more than Rs 358 crore, Karauli 43 projects worth over Rs 136 crore, Sawai Madhopur 46 projects worth more than Rs 74 crore and Dholpur six projects worth over Rs 42 crore. The Chief Minister said the government was working towards the goal of Developed Rajasthan-2047 by following Prime Minister Narendra Modis mantra of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas and Sabka Prayas. He added that projects worth more than Rs 2 lakh crore were being implemented in the water sector, including the Yamuna Water Agreement, Ramjal Setu Project and Kishau Agreement. Rajasthan, he said, was moving towards self-reliance in the energy sector and leading the country under the PM-KUSUM scheme. He highlighted that the states power generation capacity had increased by 10,500 MW, while production had commenced at the countrys most advanced refinery. Sharma said the government had conducted 410 examinations without paper leaks as part of efforts to provide employment opportunities to young people. He added that appointments had been made to 1.90 lakh posts, recruitment for 1.22 lakh posts was underway, and a calendar for another 1.25 lakh posts had been released. For farmers, Sharma said Rs 14,395 crore had been disbursed to 76 lakh farmers under the Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme, while interest-free crop loans worth approximately Rs 67,000 crore had been provided to more than one crore farmers. The Chief Minister said development work was underway across healthcare, drinking water, electricity, roads and education. To strengthen emergency and maternal and child healthcare services, foundation stones were laid for a trauma centre and MCH (Maternal and Child Health) hospital in Bharatpur at an estimated cost of Rs 160 crore. Foundation stones were also laid for 20 new medical and health projects worth more than Rs 108 crore, while 11 completed projects were inaugurated. In the road sector, foundation stones were laid for 125 projects costing more than Rs 207 crore, while road projects worth over Rs 24 crore were inaugurated. Sharma said 14 major power-sector projects worth Rs 273 crore had been inaugurated, with new 33 kV substations to be constructed at Chuli and Aniyala. In the Water Resources Department, officials inaugurated projects worth more than Rs 128 crore and laid foundation stones for new works costing over Rs 44 crore. He also announced that work on a drinking water expansion scheme in Nadbai would begin soon. For farmers, foundation stones were laid for expansion of the agricultural produce market, construction of a boundary wall and a Kisan Path, as well as a new bio-testing laboratory. Buildings for new veterinary hospitals and sub-centres will also be constructed at Nithar in Bhusawar. In Bari, the newly constructed Government Girls College building, built at Rs 7.5 crore, was inaugurated. Foundation stones were also laid for education projects worth more than Rs 27 crore, and plans were announced to construct new primary school buildings. During the programme, Sharma announced construction of modern stadiums in Bayana and Braj Nagar and 33 kV substations at Thanadang, Supa and Mahalpur Chura. He also announced road construction from Ghauli to the Mairtha-Milsama road on the Uttar Pradesh border and from Samri Mod to Singhania. Three culverts will also be constructed on the routes to Nagla Jalsingh, Nahrauli-Sikandra and Nagla Diwan. Water Resources Minister Suresh Singh Rawat said the government under Sharma had fulfilled the long-pending vision of the Ramjal Setu Project, which would significantly benefit the Bharatpur division. Minister of State for Home Affairs Jawahar Singh Bedham also addressed the programme, highlighting the state government's development initiatives.
American author Dan Koe advocates for a transformative six-month journey of solitude, promoting significant personal growth across mental, physical, spiritual, and financial dimensions. Social media reactions reveal diverse viewpoints, with many arguing that embracing solitude should prioritize active engagement over passive content consumption. Overall, this approach encourages a serious dedication to self-betterment and intentional focus on individual goals.
India, France To Explore Outer Space Together To Map Earth's Water Sources
The goal of TRISHNA, or the Thermal Infrared Imaging Satellite for High-resolution Natural Resource Assessment, is to deliver a resolution better than 60 metres, with revisits several times a week.
Goa Rehabilitation Board Opens Applications for 13 Positions, Including Architect
The Goa Rehabilitation Board invites applications for 13 positions, including architect, with a deadline of October 12. Goa Rehabilitation Board Opens Applications for 13 Positions, Including Architect
Cow should be declared national animal; its milk has healing properties: Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi
Digital Desk | Bareilly, Sep 28 (IANS) Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi Bareilvi said on Monday that cow should be declared the national animal because it would solve many conflicts and that cow's milk has healing properties. He added that cows have been an issue in our nation for a long time. Muslims have always demanded that cows be declared the national animal. If cows are declared national animal, many of the incidents can be controlled and it will solve a lot of problems. I also want to express how Islam views cows. Someone asked Paigambar in Islam, so he replied that a cow's milk has 'Shifa' (healing properties) and cow's meat has diseases. Meaning that we should drink cow's milk. If someone is weak, then they should consume cow's milk, so that they are healthy. This is Islam's stance on cows. If it is declared as the national animal, then certain incidents can be curbed. Many issues can be solved with it; many incidents that are caused can be averted, and then every individual will try to protect it, Bareilvi said. According to reports, in a Vishva Hindu Parishad programme celebrating late Ashok Singhal's birth anniversary, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said many copycats said that one should declare the cows as the national animal; to them I say, you are the animal; for us, a cow is our mother. We are connected to cows for more than a lifetime. In the aftermath, Congress Spokesperson Surendra Rajput said, The cow is our mother; there are no doubts in that. Not just in Sanatan, but in the entire country, the cow is considered a mother. The only people who think that a cow is just an animal are the members of the Bharatiya Janata Party. That's why West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari said that a cow older than fourteen years could be butchered. That's why Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma in the Northeast region said that butcher cows and eat them at home.... a Goa Minister said that because cow meat is scarce, we had to import it. So for the BJP, cow is an animal; they are trying to cause communal hatred. This is a medium for seeking votes. For them, Lord Ram is not for devotion, and stealing donations and committing sins. For you, Lord Ram is a tool for vote theft; for us, Lord Ram is a matter of devotion, and the cow is our mother, but not for BJP, he added. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath had said that people who call 'cows' animals have animal tendencies themselves, and people who use derogatory terms against Ayodhya should be avoided.
Asian Games: India complete perfect group-stage run, set up Pakistan SF in mens hockey
Digital Desk | Kakamigahara (Japan), Sep 28 (IANS) India marched into the mens hockey semifinals of the 2026 Asian Games with a flawless group-stage record after the defending champions dismantled Bangladesh 10-0 on Monday to finish top of Pool A. The Harmanpreet Singh-led side collected 15 points from five matches, winning every game in the pool and finishing their group campaign in emphatic fashion. Pakistan, who ended Pool B in second place with 12 points, now await India in what promises to be a high-profile semifinal clash. India wasted little time asserting their control against Bangladesh, with Abhishek opening the scoring in the third minute with a composed reverse-stick finish after receiving the ball from Manpreet Singh. The lead was doubled in the 22nd minute when Jugraj Singh converted a penalty stroke, before Harmanpreet took over from the penalty corner. The India captain struck from a set-piece in the 27th minute to send his side into half-time with a 3-0 advantage. The second half then turned into a relentless attacking display as India continued to pile pressure on a Bangladesh defence that struggled to contain the reigning champions. Sukhjeet Singh finished off a well-worked move with Dilpreet Singh early in the third quarter, before Harmanpreet added his second penalty-corner goal of the evening. Shilanand Lakra then put the result beyond doubt with two goals in quick succession. He first appeared at the far post to turn the ball into the net before producing a superb reverse-stick effort to complete his brace. Harmanpreet completed his hat-trick with another penalty-corner conversion, while Sanjay added a ninth goal with a drag-flick that found the top corner. India reached double figures in the final minute when Mandeep Singh converted the rebound after Sukhjeets initial effort had been blocked. The 10-0 victory extended Indias dominant record against Bangladesh, with the defending champions having now won all seven of their meetings at the Asian Games after Mondays result. Indias reward for topping Pool A is a semifinal against Pakistan, setting up another chapter in one of Asian hockeys most storied rivalries. The two nations are among the most successful teams in the history of mens hockey at the Asian Games, with Pakistan having won eight gold medals and India four. India are the reigning Asian Games champions, having defeated Japan 5-1 in the final at Hangzhou in 2023. Pakistans most recent appearance in the final came in 2014, when they lost to India on penalties after the match ended 2-2. With the group stage now complete, Indias unbeaten campaign moves into the knockout phase, where their next assignment will be a semifinal against their neighbours and long-time rivals.
Comparing Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi
There's a growing chasm... The post Comparing Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messis stats in 2026 so far: Goals, assists, penalties appeared first on Planet Football .
SpaceX launches Starship rocket to orbit for 1st time
SpaceX launched its enormous Starship into orbit for the first time Monday, aiming for six full laps around Earth to prove its readiness for NASA's Artemis moon program . Starships 14th flight is set to launch on Monday, Sept 28. The 75-minute launch window opens at 7:15 a.m. CT. Live coverage of the mission starts ~35 minutes before launch https://t.co/uQKQvgaTmJ SpaceX (@SpaceX) September 27, 2026 The spacecraft almost didn't achieve the long-desired goal after one of its engines shut down too soon. But with everything else working well and the bad engine no longer needed, flight controllers decided after several tense minutes to proceed as planned. Starship is orbital, Mission Control announced to cheers. Founder Elon Musk's showpiece rocket the biggest and most powerful ever built carried 26 of the latest and most advanced Starlink satellites to join the 11,000 older models already providing internet service. They popped out of the spacecraft one by one, drawing more cheers from the SpaceX crowds looking on from the launch site at Starbase, Texas. It was Starship's 14th full-scale launch from Texas' southern tip in three years. The earlier test flights ventured no farther than the Indian Ocean halfway around the world, often crashing in flames and briefly skimming space. This time, SpaceX was intent on circling the globe from an altitude of 170 miles (275 kilometers) not just once but six times over almost 10 hours, ending with a Pacific splashdown near Chile. The first-stage booster wasn't meant to return to the Starbase launch site either, instead dropping into the Gulf of Mexico within minutes of the morning liftoff. SpaceX wants to ensure that everything works before flying Starship back to Starbase. If the spacecraft breaks apart over land and rains debris onto people, our popularity would diminish very rapidly, Musk said at a business summit earlier this month. That's why we're being extremely cautious here. If all goes well with this orbital debut, the next Starship will return to the launch pad with giant mechanical arms grabbing the hovering spacecraft. If the catch works Musk gives it even or slightly better odds then SpaceX will refly the spacecraft by year's end or early next year. The 407-foot (124-meter) rocket was designed from the start to be fully reusable a key to lowering launch costs. SpaceX managed to salvage the last Starship from the Indian Ocean in July. Engineers modified the newly launched Starship's heat shield based on hands-on inspections from the recovered spacecraft, which is being tugged back to Starbase. SpaceX is pressing hard to certify Starship for orbital flight, a vital step toward moon and Mars travel . NASA's Artemis III mission is coming up as soon as next summer, a triple-launch docking exercise in orbit around Earth between an Orion capsule full of astronauts and competing lunar landers. Jeff Bezos' Blue Moon will blast off first, then Orion which will close in for a linkup then Musk's Starship for a docking with Orion once Blue Moon unleashes. The next mission Artemis IV slated for no sooner than 2028 would have astronauts landing on the moon in either Blue Moon or Starship, whichever is ready first. Subsequent moonshots will alternate between the two billionaires' landers. Musk originally developed Starship for Mars, intending to launch scores of them with the red planet's first settlers. For now, he plans to focus on the moon and use Starship to haul satellites into orbit by the truckload, phasing out the company's frailer Falcon 9 rocket within several years. A second Starship launch site is nearing completion at Florida's Kennedy Space Center and a third is planned for Louisiana. ___ The Associated Press' health and science coverage receives financial support from the AP Fund for Journalism and private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find AP's standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org . This article originally appeared on Associated Press at https://tech.yahoo.com/science/articles/spacexs-supersized-starship-launches-toward-125036831.html
SIR is a scam; CEC Gyanesh Kumar is being made a scapegoat: TVK minister Rajmohan
Goa Housing Board Junior Engineer Recruitment 2026 - Apply Offline
Goa Housing Board has released the Recruitment 2026 notification for 01 Junior Engineer (Civil) Group C Posts. The offline application process will be conducted form 28-09-2026 to 21-10-2026. Eligible candidates can apply through the official website, goa.gov.in.
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 28 (IANS) Describing player retentions and releases as the most challenging aspect of his job, Delhi Capitals (DC) head coach Jonathan Batty has said that four-time runners-up will enter the upcoming Women's Premier League (WPL) 2027 player auction with a singular focus on fine-tuning their starting eleven to finally break their finale jinx. New Delhi, Sep 28 (IANS) Describing player retentions and releases as the most challenging aspect of his job, Delhi Capitals (DC) head coach Jonathan Batty has said that four-time runners-up will enter the upcoming Women's Premier League (WPL) 2027 player auction with a singular focus on fine-tuning their starting eleven to finally break their finale jinx. On the retention deadline day, DC released six players, including big overseas names in South Africa opener Lizelle Lee and Australia leg-spinner Alana King, alongside Indias off-spin bowling all-rounder Sneh Rana, wicketkeeper-batter Taniyaa Bhatia, as well as uncapped duo Pragati Singh and Srujana Eddla. It's always a really difficult time of year. Retentions and releases are probably the most challenging part of the job. You obviously want to have the right players in your team and in your squad to give you the best chance of going into the season. Delhi have always been really strong in terms of the quality of the playing eleven to the depth of the squad that we've always had. So for us, going into this retention-release cycle to try and work out how we can improve our starting eleven as a priority is really challenging. We had 11 super players who were in the starting eleven last year, and to try and improve on that is really, really difficult. So we've made some really difficult decisions. There's been a lot of debate and discussion around the management group and our scouts, to come to the point where we've obviously released those six players that we have - it's been a challenging time, said Batty to broadcasters Star Sports during the retentions announcement show on Monday. DC, though, have retained a formidable 13-member squad built around a star-studded core. The side features major international heavyweights in Marizanne Kapp, Laura Wolvaardt, Annabel Sutherland, Chinelle Henry, and Lucy Hamilton. The retained domestic contingent is headlined by skipper Jemimah Rodrigues and explosive opener Shafali Verma, alongside Minnu Mani, Deeya Yadav, Mamatha Madiwala, Nandni Sharma, Niki Prasad, and N Sree Charani. Having suffered heartbreak in all four WPL finals so far, Batty took pride in the team's consistent run to the summit clash while remaining confident that a title breakthrough is right around the corner. We're really proud of the performances that the DC girls have put in over the last four years, and getting to every final, you say it's an incredible achievement. We haven't reached our goal, which is always to try and win the tournament. So hopefully this year we'll get the icing on the cake and get over the line. As for the reasons why we've fallen short in the last couple of years, I don't think there's any set reason. Just on the day, the opposition have outplayed us in all those four finals. I think it's a testament, as you said, to the strength of the team that we keep doing that in terms of getting to the final. The way we've done it each year has been slightly different, he noted. Analysing how the competitive landscape of the WPL has evolved, Batty pointed out that equal squad strengths across franchises made last season's run to the final their toughest yet. Obviously, we were dominant through the first year. In subsequent years, obviously, we had a bit more of a challenge when the teams were more evenly balanced along the way. Last year, I felt that all the teams were the most evenly balanced they had been through the whole tournament. So it was much harder, I felt, for us to get there. We probably played our best game in the Eliminator last year and then obviously fell short in the final again. So we're constantly looking just to tinker and try and improve our starting eleven. But you look at the world-class players we've got within our starting eleven, if you keep getting yourself in finals, at some point you are going to win one, and so hopefully that will be this year, he stated. Batty further praised Jemimah for stepping up admirably and playing a hands-on role in the recruitment and retention decisions alongside the scouting setup. So Jemi obviously stepped in to take the captaincy on with Megs departure the previous year. I thought she went from strength to strength. She learnt a huge amount during the tournament. She was a wonderful captain on and off the field. You would always include your captain and leader in those discussions. She's obviously got a good knowledge of the domestic game as well as obviously the international players we make targets for, and we've always listened to that. The whole recruitment element for Delhi is a real collaboration. So we've got wonderful scouts out there. We've got a really good management group. We've got people behind the scenes who are really well-versed in auction strategy as well, he explained. Batty concluded by pointing out the human side of managing squad transitions ahead of the upcoming auction in Kochi on October 28, where DC will operate with a remaining purse of Rs 1.1 crore. We take all those different thoughts in and make the huge decisions whether to retain or release a player. We've been very good at the recruitment side, and we want to stay good at that. As a coach, it's really tough, obviously, talking to those players that you've released, trying to explain why that might be, and obviously making the players that you've retained very happy. So we want to keep them firing and playing well for Delhi as well.
No relief for farmers till assessment reports are finalised: Maha Minister
Digital Desk | Yavatmal, Sep 28 (IANS) Despite the state government declaring drought across 75 per cent of Maharashtra, Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule on Monday clarified that farmers will not receive immediate financial aid. He said disbursements would take place only after complete loss assessment reports (panchnamas) are finalised to ensure no affected farmer is excluded or unfairly compensated. Bawankule, who heads the newly appointed Cabinet Sub-Committee on Drought Relief, explained that premature financial aid without thorough ground reports would ultimately harm farmers. Our goal is to ensure that not a single eligible farmer is excluded. Different crops, such as cotton, soybean, turmeric, sugarcane, horticulture and orange orchards, have distinct damage parameters. Releasing funds today without ground assessments would lead to inaccurate compensation. Comprehensive reports are necessary, and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis will formally announce the financial package once these are finalised, he said. To streamline the process, the Cabinet Sub-Committee will meet every Tuesday to review the evolving situation across affected districts. Bawankule emphasised that precise ground verification is critical for securing funds under National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) guidelines. He also directed MSEDCL to ensure 12 hours of uninterrupted power supply to agricultural feeders, with power availability issues to be reviewed weekly. Responding to letters from opposition leaders, including NCP chief Sharad Pawar, demanding urgent drought relief, Bawankule said the government had received over 2,000 such letters. Opposition leaders are merely performing their duty by writing letters, but our government is not acting solely because of them, he remarked. He added that the Chief Minister had personally visited farm bunds to assess the situation. Talukas omitted from the drought list would also be evaluated after thorough study. He urged political parties to avoid politicising the crisis and contribute to relief efforts. On protests regarding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, Bawankule accused the Opposition of spreading negativity. After raising baseless doubts about EVMs, they are now targeting the SIR process. What is wrong with ensuring accurate voter lists? he asked, alleging that opposition parties fail to work at the booth level and instead rely on false narratives. He added that voters had rejected misinformation during recent elections, resulting in strong public support for the ruling alliance.
The 72nd National Film Awards ceremony was held last week, on September 22, and among the proud attendees was Nidhi Parmar Hiranandani. Her production house, Chalk N Cheese Films, produced Srikanth (2024) with T-Series, and the Rajkummar Rao-starrer went on to win the Best Hindi Feature Film award. Understandably, Nidhi is on cloud nine. Chalk N Cheese Films has carved a distinct niche for itself. All three of its films so far Saand Ki Aankh (2019), Srikanth and the Marathi film Ata Thambaycha Naay (2025) have been inspired by remarkable real-life stories and presented in a mainstream, entertaining manner. Saand Ki Aankh and Srikanth, incidentally, were directed by Tushar Hiranandani, who is also Nidhi Parmar Hiranandanis husband. In an exclusive interview with Bollywood Hungama, conducted just before her birthday, the enterprising producer opened up about Srikanths National Award win, her journey into films, her working equation with Tushar, her fascination with Karan Johar and a lot more. Where were you when you learned that Srikanth won the National Award? We were in Goa at my cousins place to celebrate Tushars birthday. I was sitting by the pool with a friend while he was sleeping inside. Suddenly, he came running out and said, Nidhi, we won the National Award. I thought he was dreaming! I told him, You must have dreamt about it. Go back to sleep. He replied, No, really, I just got a call from someone. We were staying in a remote area and neither of us had network on our phones. However, my friend did. She switched on the live stream of the announcement and thats when we saw that Srikanth had indeed won the National Award. It took us a minute to believe it. Soon, we were flooded with congratulatory calls. With Srikanth, an important point has been proven, or rather, disproven, that you need to lobby to win an award. We didnt do anything of that sort. The National Award jury did its job. They saw the film, liked it and awarded us. Even now, people ask us, How did you guys win? or Did you know so-and-so? When we went for the ceremony, we got a chance to meet people from different film industries across the country. Several of them told us that Srikanth deserved the National Award. Two encounters particularly stood out. Aanand L Rais wife told Tushar that the film really deserved to win. Shashwat Sachdevs father hugged Tushar and said that Srikanth was one of his favourite films. That felt really nice. How did the real Srikanth Bolla react to the National Award honour? He has been expecting this award from the very beginning (laughs). Ever since the day we narrated the final script to him, he kept saying, Our film will win the National Award. During the promotions, we literally had to tell him, Please dont say such things! He also dreamt of an Oscar. And he wasnt too far off, because Srikanth was among the films considered to be Indias official entry to the Oscars. It even made it to the top five! So, when we won the National Award, he was his usual nonchalant self. He simply said, I told you we would win! Often, films enjoy strong word of mouth but still struggle to find an audience because of the sheer number of releases. Srikanth, however, arrived at a time when there was hardly any major competition for almost three weeks. Do you think that worked in the films favour? The film had been ready for a while and we were looking for the right release window. The date shifted two or three times. Rajkummar Raos Mr & Mrs Mahi (2024) was also being planned for release around the same time, but it eventually arrived three weeks after our film. May 10, 2024, looked like a great date to us. We met Bhushan Kumar ji and requested him to release the film on May 10 because we felt it was an ideal window. He agreed, and thats how we announced the date. And yes, it turned out to be a dream release for us. What changes for you from here on? I feel we must have done something right to win the National Award, and wed like to continue on that path. At the same time, as makers, we want to evolve. We do want to explore more commercial cinema, but content will always come first for us. Even if we make something more commercial, it still has to have a strong story at its core. After Srikanth, we made Ata Thambaycha Naay, which was a small Marathi film. Its been a year since that film and two years since Srikanth, but its not as if we havent received offers or come across subjects to make. We did try going down the route of putting together a more commercial package, but we realised thats not really how we function. We need to connect with the script. So, even when we do make a commercial film, it will have to be something that genuinely speaks to us. How challenging was it to make Srikanth within a certain budget? I feel I was a very lucky producer because Tushar was the director. I would give him 100 out of 100. Hes a dream director for any producer because hes extremely mindful of the budget. Hes also a master at making a film mounted on a modest budget look beautiful. His DOP is very important to him, so he takes his time finalising the cinematographer. Sudhakar Reddy Yakkanti shot Saand Ki Aankh, while Srikanth was shot by Pratham Mehta. Pratham gave it his absolute best as well, and full marks to him. I dont understand the technical aspects too much. My only brief to Pratham was, Every shot should look like this is a Rs. 50 crore film, even though our COP was Rs. 20 crores! He and all our HODs worked within the budget and still delivered their A-game. Why is your production house called Chalk N Cheese Films? (Smiles) Thats because Tushar and I are like chalk and cheese! We are complete opposites as personalities, right from the kind of food we like and the way we dress to the places we like to visit. So, whenever we make a movie, both of us have to like it, which is actually very difficult! We have to meet somewhere in the middle and find common ground. Even our approach to filmmaking and shooting is very different. How did you get into this profession? I am from Chandigarh and I came to Mumbai to become a director. I was studying to become a CA, although I hated every bit of it. I hated accounts! I was a scholarship student and had topped Economics, which is why I was studying Commerce. Then, I went to watch Kuch Kuch Hota Hai (1998) with my mother and I went mad over the person who had made the movie (Karan Johar)! I didnt go crazy over Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol or Rani Mukerji. Instead, I kept wondering, Who is this person who has created this world? Thats when I started trying to understand what a director actually does. In the process, I became obsessed with KJo. He opened my mind to a medium that I had never taken seriously before. It completely changed my world, and that was the day I decided that I wanted to pursue a career in cinema. I left everything and came to Mumbai. I did a course at XIC (Xavier Institute of Communications) and started working. Later, I even got the opportunity to work at Karans company, Dharma Productions! So, in a way, he is the reason I came to Mumbai from Chandigarh. Are you still in touch with him? Of course. Karan will always have the warmest place in my heart (smiles). Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Srikanth makers Tushar Hiranandani and Nidhi Parmar Hiranandani announce Ragda 25; film based on Indian Armys first experimental batch of 25 women
World Cup Hero Vozinha Says, 'I've Lost My Peace'
Vozinha went from 56,000 to 28 million Instagram followers after Cape Verde's World Cup run. Now the goalkeeper says he wants his old life back.
India, Oman eye stronger cooperation in energy, SAF and security sectors: Oman's Ambassador
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 28 (IANS) India and Oman have significant opportunities to deepen cooperation in energy, sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and security, Omans Ambassador to India, Issa Saleh Abdullah Al Shibani, said on Monday. Speaking to IANS on the sidelines of the Second India SAF Conclave and Awards 2026 organised by the SAF Association in the national capital, the Ambassador said both nations are well-positioned to expand collaboration across critical sectors. Energy, sustainable aviation fuel and security are areas where there is ample scope for cooperation between our two countries. We are neighbours, we share airspace, and I believe there is much more that India and Oman can achieve together through closer engagement, he said. Highlighting the climate commitments of both countries, Al Shibani noted that Oman has set a target of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, while India aims to reach the milestone by 2070. He expressed confidence that both nations are making steady progress toward meeting their environmental goals and can support each other in advancing clean energy initiatives. The discussion came against the backdrop of growing interest in Sustainable Aviation Fuel, which is increasingly being viewed as a key tool for reducing carbon emissions from the aviation sector. When asked which sectors do you see as key drivers towards achieving the goal of doubling bilateral economic exchange, Petra Menander, Ambassador of Sweden to India, said that Anything related to technology, innovation and the green transition. That includes AI, connectivity, telecommunications, mining and life sciences all areas where both countries are strong. Jimmy Olsson, President of the SAF Association and Chairman and Managing Director of ZR2 Group, said India should chart its own path in SAF development instead of replicating models adopted elsewhere. According to him, India has already built a strong foundation through its progress in solar energy, biomass utilisation and broader energy-sector reforms, creating favourable conditions for the growth of a domestic SAF ecosystem.
WPL 2027: Every Auction A Fresh Challenge, Goal Is To Build Top Team, Says MI Mentor Jhulan
Mumbai Indians: Mumbai Indians bowling coach and mentor Jhulan Goswami has stated that player auctions present a unique challenge every season and added that the franchise's core objective remains assembling a top-tier squad capable of fighting for the Women's Premier League (WPL) title. Jhulan's remarks came after two-time champions Mumbai Indians parted ways with six players ahead of the WPL 2027 auction. The released list comprises five Indian players left-arm spinner Saika Ishaque, wicketkeeper-batter G Kamalini, seam bowler Kranthi Reddy, batting all-rounder Poonam Khemnar, and left-arm spinner Triveni Vasistha, alongside Australian fast bowler Milly Illingworth. Auctions are always a different challenge for everyone because you don't know which player you are going to meet, but you have to prepare accordingly. So every year is a new challenge, and we try to accept that challenge and make the best team, so that our team is at the top, said Jhulan to broadcasters Star Sports during the retention announcement show on Monday. MI, who missed out on WPL 2026 playoffs, have preserved a formidable core of 11 players, led by captain Harmanpreet Kaur. The retained squad features international stars - West Indies captain Hayley Matthews, England skipper Natalie Sciver-Brunt, New Zealand captain Amelia Kerr, South Africa pacer Shabnim Ismail, and Australias seam-bowling all-rounder Nicola Carey. The domestic core retained by the franchise includes seam-bowling all-rounder Amanjot Kaur, whos recovering from a back injury at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru, batting all-rounder Sajeevan Sajana, wicketkeeper-batter Rahila Firdous, off-spin bowling all-rounder Sanskriti Gupta, and left-arm spinner Vaishnavi Sharma. MI, who missed out on WPL 2026 playoffs, have preserved a formidable core of 11 players, led by captain Harmanpreet Kaur. The retained squad features international stars - West Indies captain Hayley Matthews, England skipper Natalie Sciver-Brunt, New Zealand captain Amelia Kerr, South Africa pacer Shabnim Ismail, and Australias seam-bowling all-rounder Nicola Carey. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Ahead of Gandhinagar civic poll, BJPs 44 candidates take 'Jan Seva' pledge
Digital Desk | Gandhinagar, Sep 28 (IANS) Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)s 44 candidates for the Gandhinagar Municipal Corporation (GMC) election on Monday pledged to make public service their priority, with Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi present at the ceremony. The candidates from all 11 wards took the Pledge of Public Service at the statue of Dr B.R. Ambedkar opposite the Legislative Assembly complex, committing themselves to keeping citizens interests at the centre of their work and contributing to the overall development of Gandhinagar. The pledge came a day before the withdrawal of forms for the civic election on October 11. The GMC has 11 wards and 44 seats, with counting scheduled for October 13. The BJP candidates pledged to discharge their civic duties and abide by the Constitution and rules, while expressing faith in Pandit Deendayal Upadhyayas philosophy of integral humanism. They also committed themselves to advancing what the party described as the politics of development and the ideology and heritage of Indian culture under Prime Minister Narendra Modis leadership. The candidates pledged to work with mind, action and words towards the goals of a Developed India and One India, Best India, party leaders said. As part of the pledge, the candidates also promised to contribute to Gandhinagars pride, peace, unity and development and to work through public outreach, public dialogue and public service with the spirit of Nagrik Devo Bhava. The candidates further pledged to make efforts to ensure that the benefits of public welfare schemes of the Central and State governments reach the last person. Invoking the principle of 'public service is service to God', they resolved to make public service their priority, party sources said. The BJP had completed its list of 44 candidates for all 11 wards ahead of the nomination deadline on September 26, after announcing 32 candidates initially and a further 12 candidates for Wards 2, 4 and 6. Cabinet Minister and election in-charge Rushikesh Patel, Minister Sanjaysinh Mahida, state BJP secretary and Gandhinagar in-charge Nirav Amin, city BJP president Dr Ashishkumar Dave, Mayor Mira Patel, MLAs Rita Patel and Alpesh Thakor, among other party leaders, attended the event.
Delhi CM Rekha Gupta launches new portal for business approvals
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 28 (IANS) Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Monday launched a new portal for easy, transparent and paperless approval for investors planning to start businesses in the national capital. Sharing information about the major step to enhance the ease of doing business, Delhi Industries and Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa on social media platform X said, A simpler, faster and more transparent Delhi for businesses. Today, CM @gupta_rekhaJi launched the Delhi Udyog Mitra Portal under #SevaSankalpAbhiyan, marking a historic milestone in our efforts to strengthen Ease of Doing Business in Delhi and make it easier to start, run and grow a business. Guided by the vision of PM@narendramodiJi, this platform is integrated with the National Single Window System and brings together 50+ services across 15+ Delhi government departments. Soon, it will expand to offer more than 100 services across 21 departments through a single digital interface, Minister Sirsa noted on X. From applications and approvals to tracking and grievance redressal, businesses can now access services online through http://sws.delhi.gov.in, with a paperless system, end-to-end tracking and complete transparency. One platform. Seamless services. A better business experience for Delhi, he said on X. Earlier, Minister Sirsa shared information on social media about a meeting he attended in the Union Environment Ministry to firm a winter air pollution control plan. I participated in an important meeting held today at Paryavaran Bhawan, under the chairmanship of the Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, @byadavbjpji, and the Chief Minister @gupta_rekhaji, to ensure clean air and a better environment in Delhi, he said on X. The main objective of the meeting was to review the major sources of air pollution in Delhi, make the ongoing efforts for pollution control more effective, and strengthen on-ground monitoring with better coordination among various departments, he added. Providing clean air and a healthy environment to the residents of Delhi is our responsibility, and this responsibility is not limited to any one season. The Delhi government is continuously working in a technical and scientific manner, 365 days a year, 247, for pollution control, Minister Sirsa said. The efforts for pollution control will be further strengthened by seriously implementing the important suggestions and directions given by the Union Minister (Bhupender Yadav) ji. Under the leadership of the Chief Minister (Rekha Gupta) ji, our goal is clear -- to provide clean air and a better environment to the residents of Delhi. During this time, my fellow Cabinet Minister @p_sahibsinghji was also present, Sirsa added on X.
Haaland to Arsenal: what Man City's guilty verdict could mean for his future
Highlights Arsenal have reportedly made contact with Erling Haaland's representatives, according to Football Insider, with Real Madrid also in touch The interest follows Manchester City being found guilty on 114 of 115 Premier League financial charges, with the Premier League reportedly pushing for expulsion or a severe points deduction Haaland has no relegation clause in his contract, meaning any suitor would still have to pay a significant fee even in City's worst-case scenario History offers a genuine precedent here: when Juventus were relegated over the 2006 Calciopoli scandal, several of their biggest stars left immediately, and it did their careers no harm at all Nobody at Arsenal was talking about signing Erling Haaland a month ago. Then Manchester City were found guilty on 114 separate financial charges, and suddenly three of Europe's biggest clubs are making calls. What's actually being reported, and what isn't It's worth being precise about how solid this is, because transfer stories like this move fast and loose. Football Insider reported that Arsenal and Real Madrid have made contact with Haaland's representatives about a future move. Separately, Fabrizio Romano generally the most reliable name in this business has confirmed Arsenal are looking at strikers as a genuine priority for 2027, though he was careful to frame it as forward planning rather than anything urgent: I would not call that as something imminent or urgent because Arsenal are very happy with the strikers they have. Barcelona have also been linked. None of this is a done deal. All of it is club interest at the earliest possible stage, sparked directly by City's legal troubles. The contract detail that actually matters most Here's the part of this story that most coverage is underselling. Haaland doesn't just lack a relegation clause he has no release clause of any kind. His original 2022 deal from Borussia Dortmund carried a reported 150-175 million release clause, but it expired unused in the summer of 2024. In January 2025, Haaland signed a record nine-and-a-half-year extension keeping him at City until 2034, and that new deal removed release clauses entirely rather than replacing the old one. That changes what this transfer talk actually is. This isn't a case of a clause sitting there ready to be triggered by relegation or anything else TEAMtalk's Graeme Bailey and multiple other outlets have confirmed there's no automatic exit mechanism at all, even in City's worst-case scenario. Any move would depend entirely on City choosing to sell and Haaland choosing to push for it, with no contractual lever forcing either side's hand. That makes the scale of City's current crisis the only real variable and it's also why a Real Madrid presidential candidate's claim earlier this year that a specific release clause existed caused such a stir: City had to issue a direct statement calling it untrue. How Haaland got here in the first place Haaland's rise has been unusually fast even by modern football's standards. He made his senior debut for Bryne in Norway's second tier as a teenager, before a move to Molde got him properly noticed. RB Salzburg brought him to Austria in January 2019, where he scored goals at a rate that made Europe's bigger clubs sit up, and Borussia Dortmund paid roughly 20 million for him a year later. By the time Manchester City paid around 51 million for him in the summer of 2022, he'd already established himself as one of the most feared strikers on the continent and he then broke the Premier League's single-season goals record in his first year at the club. Each move up that ladder came at exactly the moment his value peaked at the level below. If he leaves City now, it would be the first time in his career that the move was forced by circumstances entirely outside his own form. What history actually says happens next This isn't uncharted territory, even if it feels that way. In 2006, Juventus were found guilty in the Calciopoli match-fixing scandal, stripped of two league titles, and relegated to Serie B. It remains the closest real precedent to what City are now facing, and CBS Sports has already drawn the same comparison directly. What happened to Juventus's biggest stars afterward is genuinely instructive. Fabio Cannavaro left for Real Madrid that same summer and went on to win the Ballon d'Or. Zlatan Ibrahimovi and Patrick Vieira both joined Inter Milan the club handed Juventus's stripped title and Ibrahimovi scored 66 goals in 117 games there, winning three straight Scudetti before later moving to Barcelona. Gianluca Zambrotta and Lilian Thuram both joined Barcelona too. None of them saw their careers dip. If anything, the move away from a sinking club coincided with some of the best form of their careers. Not everyone left, either Gianluigi Buffon, Alessandro Del Piero, Pavel Nedved, Giorgio Chiellini and David Trezeguet all stayed and helped Juventus bounce straight back to Serie A within a single season. There's no single right answer here, in other words. But for the specific question of whether leaving a scandal-hit giant damages a top player's career, the Calciopoli generation's answer was a clear no. Whatever happens with City's appeal, and however this transfer speculation develops, that's the precedent Haaland 's camp will already be well aware of.
Can Patrick Mahomes Really Beat Tom Brady For The NFLs GOAT Spot After Matching 4 Major Records?
Patrick Mahomes has matched Tom Brady in four major career marks, but Bradys seven Super Bowl wins remain a major part of the GOAT debate.
Amitabh Bachchan Talks About Different Views And Shared Goals With Abhishek Bachchan
Amitabh Bachchan reflected on his relationship with son Abhishek Bachchan in his latest blog post
Switch Mobility secures order for 840 e-buses for Delhi under PM E-Drive
Hinduja Group firm Switch Mobility on Monday said it has secured an order for 840 electric buses from Antony Road Transport Solutions under the first phase of the Centre's PM Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement (PM E-Drive) scheme. The order comprises 420 9-metre and as many 12-metre AC electric buses for deployment with the Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) and Transport Department, Delhi. With the deployment of electric buses across Delhi's public transport network, the partnership aims to enable efficient passenger movement while contributing to the city's broader sustainable mobility goals, Switch Mobility stated. The agreements for the deployment have been formalised between Switch Mobility and Antony Road Transport Solutions, marking an important step towards the electrification of public transportation in the national capital, it added. Ganesh Mani, CEO, Switch Mobility said, This order is a strong testament to the growing confidence in electric ...
Playing for numbers never works, aim is always to play for winning matches: Virat Kohli
Digital Desk | Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 28 (IANS) Talismanic India batter Virat Kohli has stated that chasing personal records can never sustain a long career in international cricket, adding that his sole focus over the years has been to steer the national team to victory from challenging situations. Tearing into the West Indies bowling attack in the first ODI at the Greenfield International Stadium, Kohli breached the 15,000-run mark in ODIs while making an unbeaten 139 - his 55th ton in the format and third-fastest overall. He now stands as only the second player in history to cross 15,000 mens ODI runs after the legendary Sachin Tendulkar. Of course, I mean, if you look at it from a numbers perspective, it's a big number. But the goal is simple - to try and make the team win from difficult situations, and different situations. That's what I've tried to do over the years. You can only play for that long if you're looking to make the team win. You can't play for that long for numbers because in need to get numbers, you will compromise on the main goal and you can't play for long in that manner. So I'm lucky to have been in this position for so long. Of course, a big number like that to take it off along the way to another win is quite special, Kohli said in a video posted on BCCIs social media accounts on Monday. Speaking on his camaraderie with skipper Shubman Gill, who hit 110, Kohli highlighted his free-flowing nature and the lightness in the team environment with the senior players being at ease. I've known him since the time he came into the team. I've always shared like a very free flowing and a very fun filled camaraderie with him. At the end of the day, you make a conscious effort. Now he's in a leadership position. I've been in that position for a long time and now I'm a senior player. So, when senior players or the leaders in the team are smiling, laughing, keeping the environment light, all the other players feel like, yes, there's no problem. Like, even if it's a big pressure game, everyone's laughing. So it just relaxes all the other guys because we are not taking pressure. We are showing that it's fine. We can smile and have a good laugh, but be professional on the field, he elaborated. Detailing the secret of their partnerships being successful, Kohli noted that mutual understanding simplifies their communication while batting together. When you bat with a player like that, we don't talk much about the match we talk about the other and different things because he knows what to do and I know what to do. Sometimes on the basis of experience, or in some areas, if he's trying to hit, then I can chip in and say, maybe not this, maybe this. But more interactions happen on the field while we are fielding to bounce off ideas because the captain can have a lot of stuff going on. But batting with him, you don't need to say much because he knows what to do. Of course, he's got great skill. In the presentation, he was asking me, how do you feel batting with him? So I said, there's a reason why he's leading the team because he has the right perspective to look at the game in a way that he can make the team win, he added. Meanwhile, Gill expressed delight at being at the non-strikers end when his idol Kohli breached the historic 15,000 runs milestone. Very happy - growing up, I never thought I'll be alongside Virat bhai when he completes his 15,000 runs in ODIs. From watching him and idolising him, seeing what makes him so special and then being on the crease with him and sharing those moments, I think the journey has been great so far and hopefully it's going to be even better memories that we share. We can all see how much Virat bhai is enjoying his betting right now and I think whether be the banter on the field or off the field, the ease and the confidence that he's batting with right now, it also translates from off field to on field, he concluded.
A celebration of Paolo Di Canio and his *second* best West Ham goal
Paolo Di Canio was a bit mad. He was also brilliant. The post A celebration of Paolo Di Canio and his *second* best West Ham goal appeared first on Planet Football .
Can you name every Italian player to score 10+ Premier League goals?
There are only 13 to get, but this is still hard. The post Can you name every Italian player to score 10+ Premier League goals? appeared first on Planet Football .
Watch every goal from matchweek four of the Women's Super League 2026-27 season. All the goals from the Women's Super League matchweek four
GRB Recruitment 2026 - Apply Offline for 13 MTS, LDC, Draughtsman and More Posts
Goa Rehabilitation Board (GRB) has announced the Recruitment 2026 notification for 13 vacancies, including MTS, LDC, Draughtsman and More posts. The online application process will be conducted from 25-09-2026 to 12-10-2026. Interested candidates can apply online through the official website, goa.gov.in.
Award-winner to fourth choice - what has gone wrong for Ramsdale?
From challenging for the Premier League with Arsenal and playing for England, Aaron Ramsdale is now Southampton's fourth-choice goalkeeper.
Get Microsoft Office 2024 for Windows without another yearly subscription
Macworld TL;DR: Get Microsoft Office 2024 Professional Plus for $49.97 through October 4 as a one-time purchase, with lifetime access on one Windows PC. If you mainly use one Windows PC and need Office for everyday work, you may not need another recurring software expense. Instead of paying for access year after year, this deal lets you install Microsoft Office 2024 Professional Plus with a single payment. Thats what makes Microsoft Office 2024 Professional Plus worth a look. Right now through October 4, you can grab a lifetime license for $49.97 (MSRP $249.99), giving you permanent access to Word, Excel, PowerPoint , Outlook, OneNote, and Access on one Windows PC. The important thing to know is that this version uses a device-linked license, not one tied to your Microsoft account. Thats the trade-off that helps keep the price lower. If youre buying Office for a computer you plan to keep for a while, that may be a perfectly reasonable compromise. Youll also avoid recurring Microsoft 365 payments while still getting the productivity apps most people use every day. Whether youre building spreadsheets, writing reports, creating presentations, or managing email, the core experience is designed for long-term stability. It also includes Dark Mode and is built to perform well on a wide range of hardware without requiring an ongoing subscription. If your goal is simple a full Office suite on one Windows PC with no recurring fees this is an easy way to get there. Get a lifetime license to Microsoft Office 2024 Professional Plus for a one-time $49.97 (MSRP $249.99). Microsoft Office 2024 Professional Plus for Windows: Lifetime License See Deal StackSocial prices subject to change.
Asian Games: Grateful for the errors made by judges, I got some rest, says Esha after silver
Digital Desk | Toyota, Sep 28 (IANS) Esha Singh said the unexpected interruptions during the womens 25m pistol final at the Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya on Monday ultimately worked in her favour, with the Indian shooter admitting that the stoppages gave her time to recover from mounting fatigue and pressure on her way to a silver medal. The 21-year-old entered the final after qualifying eighth and endured a roller-coaster medal round that included multiple shoot-offs, technical interruptions and a prolonged battle with Chinas Xiao Jiaruixuan for gold. Esha eventually finished second after the final shoot-off, but said the experience itself was more significant than the medal. It was amazing and Ive never had an experience like this before. Definitely going into my bucket of amazing experiences. And Im grateful for every moment. And though it was nerve-wracking, it was amazing. The Indian acknowledged that she came close to elimination several times during the final. Having started strongly, Esha found herself repeatedly fighting to remain in contention before eventually securing the bronze-medal position and then advancing to the gold-medal shoot-off. As an athlete, Im very aware of that when youre playing. Of course, its a very distracting thought that you get. Like, Im going to go out any second. And I was leading in the beginning, but things were not working out the way I wanted it to. But I still kept my focus on. I still knew I could do it. I fought till the heart. I tried my best. My hand did end up getting a little tired because nobody who went up to the goal shot as much as I did. But still, I think Im going to work on it because I dont want this to happen again. Yeah, I think overall Im really happy with the way I played. Esha revealed that physical fatigue became a factor as the final progressed. She repeatedly shook and moved her shooting hand during the tense exchanges, attempting to ease the tightness that had developed without her initially noticing it. I think its because of the pressure. I think this time, in my mind, I dont know if it was a thought or if it was really happening. But my hand was genuinely getting very, very tight and very tired without me realising. Even just the first series. So, I just tried maybe relieving or just relaxing it a bit. So, thats what I was even telling before. I was kind of grateful for the errors and mistakes the judges were making because I got some rest. So, maybe you can call it Gods grace giving me some time off and just to think about it. It looks like a situation where the zone is breaking for an athlete. But in my case, it really helped me. The silver also offered Esha an opportunity to confront memories of her Olympic experience. She said the pressure she felt during qualification and the final reminded her of the difficulties she encountered previously, but added that she now felt better equipped to handle such moments. Yeah, the qualification I am not proud of. Nor the air. But I think this kind of pressure I did not have before. It was, I would say, on an Olympic level. And that is why I am saying I really like this whole experience of this match. Because I got to relive that moment. And I did things which I couldnt do back then. And I think now I genuinely do feel stronger. Because even in the qualification, in the rapid, I could at least come back in the last series. Which I could not do in the precision. And which is why I think for the finals as well, I was very confident and I knew I can do it. Elaborating on that comparison, Esha said the difficulty lay in losing control of her duelling during the Olympics a problem she encountered again in Aichi-Nagoya. I think I was trying to talk about my Olympics. Because this is kind of a very similar situation that happened. My duelling was just so out of control. I could not get my hands on things. And thats the kind of situation I faced here after a very long time. Otherwise it was going well. So its going well, you dont have anything to work on. So this time it happened. And thats when I was like, I really pulled it hard. And I think the last season made me realise that I am strong enough to handle this. Esha also spoke about the support coming from the stands, saying she could hear her father during the final and understood his frustration with the officials after the interruptions. I can always hear my dad. I think he was very pissed off with the judges. I get it. But of course, maybe Ill think about it a little later. But then I cant really express. Because that sport is not something where you can show aggression. You have to really calm it down. That is where its actually hard. Because in other sports, you get to at least maybe throw a ball harder or something. But here you cant do that. You have to stay as calm as possible. So yeah, I think Ill think about it a little later. But I think it has justified his reaction to it. Because those kind of errors shouldnt be made by judges. But maybe it was an electronic error. I dont know yet. But it's okay. Things happen.
Goa Dental College & Hospital has invited the Recruitment 2026 notification for 01 Staff Nurse posts. Eligible candidates can attend the walk-in interview on 08-10-2026 at the designated venue. The detailed notification is available on the official website, gdch.goa.gov.in
Lionel Messi closing in on top spot for the most free-kick goals in football history
Messi is closing in on yet another all-time record. The post Lionel Messi closing in on top spot for the most free-kick goals in football history appeared first on Planet Football .
Portugal edge Norway 2-1 in UEFA Nations League; Goncalo Ramos scores winner
Defending champions Portugal defeated Norway 2-1 in Group A4 after a costly goalkeeping error allowed Goncalo Ramos to score the decisive goal in Oslo
Messis Goal Not Enough as Inter Miami Falls to Columbus Crew 2-1
Inter Miami loses to Columbus Crew 2-1 despite Messis stunning free-kick goal, maintaining a strong position in the MLS standings. Messis Goal Not Enough as Inter Miami Falls to Columbus Crew 2-1
Greece Shock Germany 1-0, Hand Jurgen Klopp First Defeat As Coach
Jurgen Klopp tasted defeat for the first time as Germany manager as his side lost 1-0 to Greece in Augsburg on Sunday, with Dimitrios Kourbelis scoring the only goal.
Nations League: Greece stun Germany, Portugal beat Norway
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 28 (IANS) Dimitris Kourbelis' deflected strike secured a first-ever victory for Greece against 2024/25 UEFA Nations League semi-finalists Germany, while Goncalo Ramos scored the winner for Portugal in Oslo as the 2026/27 edition on Matchday 2. Greece's winning start to life in League A continued courtesy of a famous 1-0 victory against Jurgen Klopp's Germnay in Augsburg. The Ethniki who had never previously defeated Germany in ten attempts edged in front with just over 15 minutes remaining thanks to a deflected strike from substitute Dimitris Kourbelis following a sustained spell of pressure from the visitors. Germany's best opportunity of the contest came shortly after the half-hour, when the lively Karim Adeyemi tested Kostas Tzolakis with a curling effort. Meanwhile, Goncalo Ramos' expert lob kept Portugal perfect after two games with 2-1 victory in Oslo. Joao Felix completed a slick move by firing in a precise 17th-minute opener for the Selecao, who then needed goalkeeper Diogo Costa to deny Erling Haaland twice before the break. Haaland struck soon after the restart when the No1 parried a Martin Odegaard free-kick, but Goncalo Ramos intercepted Orjan Nyland's pass to swiftly reply from outside the area. Rafael Leao's deflected drive then hit the crossbar, with Goncalo Ramos sending the rebound wide. Elsewhere, Mikkel Damsgaard created both goals and hit a post as Denmark earned their first points with a 2-0 win at Parken, condemning Wales to consecutive defeats. The hosts enjoyed 70 per cent of first-half possession, going closest when Damsgaard shot against the woodwork from distance. Damsgaard's cross from the right was diverted in by opposition defender Ben Davies shortly after the restart, and the midfielder's delivery from the same area led to Gustav Isaksen hitting the second via the crossbar from inside the box. In another match, Mexx Meerdink marked his first Oranje start with a well-taken double to clinch 2-1 victory for the Netherlands against AZ Alkmaar in Belgrade. The AZ Alkmaar forward converted an emphatic penalty on the half-hour mark following a foul on Crysencio Summerville, before substitute Luka Jovi levelled from close range under a minute after coming off the bench at the interval. The visitors looked most likely to secure maximum points as the contest wore on, with Ruben van Bommel's effort smacking the post, and Meerdink sealed the win with a crisp finish into the bottom corner.
MLS: Messi scores but Inter Miami fall 1-2 to Columbus Crew
Digital Desk | Columbus, Sep 28 (IANS) Inter Miami CF fell 2-1 on the road against the Columbus Crew in the MLS regular season fixture. Captain Lionel Messi scored the teams goal with a spectacular free kick at ScottsMiracle-Gro Field here on Monday. Columbus opened the scoring in the 28th minute through a penalty conversion. Inter Miami equalised five minutes later, with Messi scoring a free kick from a tight angle from the right end of the pitch. The goal took his tally to 21 as he extended his lead in the race for the 2026 MLS Golden Boot. The second half presented a player debut for the visitors, as recently signed Brazilian winger Riquelme Fillipi came on in place of Facundo Mura in the 71st minute to make his Inter Miami debut. Columbus Crew reclaimed the lead late to secure the 2-1 victory with a goal in stoppage time. Overall, Inter Miami has recorded 12 wins, five losses, and 10 draws so far this MLS regular season for a total 46 points, and sit third in the Eastern Conference standings. Messi, the reigning MLS MVP Award and Golden Boot, leads both the team and the league in goals with 20. Additionally, Messi is also tied for the lead in assists this MLS regular season with 13 so far. Columbus Crew hosted Inter Miami after earning a 0-2 victory on the road against CF Montreal last weekend. Overall, the Ohio-based side has recorded eight wins, 14 losses, and five draws so far for a total 29 points this regular season and is 13th in the Eastern Conference table. Next, Inter Miami will return home for their next MLS regular season, as the team is set to host D.C. United at Nu Stadium on October 11.
GATE Registration 2027 Last Date Extended - Check New Deadlines at gate2027.iitm.ac.in
GATE 2027 registration is extended to 5 October 2026 without a late fee and 12 October with a late fee. Check dates, fees, GOAPS link, steps and correction details.
CA Nitin Kaushik says you dont need to be naturally good at managing money if you have a simple system. He recommends tracking actual take-home income, dividing expenses into four categories, using 50/30/20 as a flexible starting point and assigning every rupee a purpose. He also advises setting specific financial goals, reviewing investments monthly and calculating net worth regularly to ensure money is moving towards your priorities.
How The Ravens Stole Victory From The Cowboys In Brazil With A Stunning Seven-Second Sequence
The Ravens stunned the Cowboys 34-31 in Brazil after Lamar Jackson found Zay Flowers with seven seconds left, setting up Tyler Loops 56-yard field goal after a crucial Dallas kickoff decision.
Trump hints at fresh Iran strikes before midterms
Donald Trump expressed confidence in a swift victory over Iran, suggesting military strikes before midterm elections are possible, with the primary goal of denying Tehran nuclear weapons. Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi declared readiness for a doomsday war if hostilities resume, while also expressing openness to diplomacy if assets are unfrozen and oil sales allowed.
We continue to show that we never give up: De la Fuente
Spain manager proud of teams resilience as world champions rally from a goal down to beat England 3-2 in Nations League
UEFA Nations League 2026-27: Portugal Edge Norway 2-1 as Nyland Error Gifts Ramos Winner
Felix's opener continued his impressive international run, coming after his match-winning goal against Wales last Thursday.
Portugal defeat Norway 2-1 in Nations League after goalkeeper error
The News Mill
Doda, Sep 27: The District Youth Services & Sports Department Doda on Sunday organised Inter-District UT-Level Boys & Girls (all age group) Rifle Shooting Competition (Open Sight) here at the Shooting Range, providing a prestigious platform to young shooters from different districts of Jammu & Kashmir to showcase precision, concentration, discipline and sporting talent. The UT-level competition was organised as per the Activity Calendar issued by the Directorate of Youth Services & Sports, J&K. The competition was conducted under the direction of Director General Youth Services & Sports J&K Anuradha Gupta and under the supervision of District Youth Services & Sports Officer (DYSSO) Ashok Kumar. The inaugural ceremony was graced by the Colonel, Commanding Officer 10 Rashtriya Rifles as the Chief Guest. He inaugurated the competition in the presence of DYSSO, participating shooters, coaches, managers, technical officials and officials of the Youth Services & Sports Department. Addressing the participants and students, the Chief Guest appreciated the efforts of the Youth Services & Sports Department in providing young athletes with opportunities to participate in competitive sports events at the UT level. He encouraged the shooters to remain focused, disciplined and dedicated towards their sporting goals, highlighting the importance of concentration, patience, precision and sportsmanship in rifle shooting. He further urged the youth to stay away from drugs, substance abuse and anti-social activities, stressing that participation in sports plays an important role in building discipline, character and physical fitness while guiding young people towards a positive and productive future. He also encouraged the participants to pursue sports with dedication, noting that sporting activities can provide meaningful opportunities for personal growth and career development. The competition witnessed enthusiastic participation of around 40 young shooters representing different districts of the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir. Participants competed in All Age Group Boys and Girls categories in Open Sight Rifle Shooting, demonstrating commendable levels of focus, control, accuracy and competitive spirit. The organising team of the District Youth Services & Sports department made comprehensive arrangements for the smooth and successful conduct of the competition, ensuring necessary facilities for participating athletes, coaches, managers and technical officials. The event concluded with a formal vote of thanks delivered by DYSSO Ashok Kumar, who expressed appreciation to the participating teams, officials and all stakeholders for their cooperation and support in the successful conduct of the UT-level competition.
Anthropic, OpenAI sound AI safety alarm, seek to shape how it's controlled
As tech titans warned an AI-weary world that their own advanced systems could endanger humanity, the question emerged: What do they have to gain? The answer may lie in the companies' efforts to score political goals ahead of the US midterm elections and the money top artificial intelligence labs and their investors stand to make in much-anticipated listings on a jittery stock market. The CEOs of Anthropic and OpenAI recently declared America's cutting-edge models are so powerful, they're dangerous, and need to be regulated and independently tested before being released. In a rare instance of unity, they have sketched alarming scenarios in essays, social media posts and speeches to the United Nations. Along the way, they are shaping the conversation around how their technology should be controlled. With their rhetoric, the companies appear to be seeking public favour and to set the terms for their own safety protocols in the unregulated market, experts, analysts and former government
Beyond Metrics: Aligning Strategy Through Purposeful OKRs
In the fast-paced world of modern business, strategic alignment is the difference between a company that merely survives and one that truly thrives. Many organizations struggle with strategy drift, where daily activities become disconnected from high-level corporate goals. This is where the Objectives and Key Results (OKR) framework becomes indispensable. Popularized by Intel and scaled []
SpaceX Starship targets first orbital flight as Musk pushes rocket towards Moon, Mars
SpaceX's Starship rocket is set to attempt its first orbital flight after years of development and testing. The launch will occur in Texas with goals including deploying 26 Starlink satellites into orbit. As the rocket journeys, it will orbit the Earth six times before landing in the Pacific Ocean. The launch is crucial for future missions to the Moon and Mars, despite potential risks.
Ireland, Israel players skip handshakes amid contentious Nations League clash
Ireland and Israel faced each other in a Nations League match in Hungary without pre-match handshakes. Irish players wore black armbands in response to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Several players, including reserve goalkeeper Gavin Bazuno, expressed opposition to the situation, leading to his boycott of the games. The game witnessed limited attendance, with tiny groups of Israeli fans and local protesters present.
Klopps Germany rocked by Greece as Kourbelis delivers a shock in Augsburg
Germany experienced its first loss under coach Jurgen Klopp as Greece secured a surprise 1-0 victory. Dimitris Kourbelis scored the only goal in the second half, condemning Germany to defeat. The German team dominated possession yet struggled to create significant scoring opportunities throughout the match. Meanwhile, Portugal won against Norway despite Cristiano Ronaldo being benched for the game.
Eye on India cocktail, Suntory eyes 10-15% stake in Allied Blenders & Distillers
Suntory Holdings, the renowned Japanese beverage company, is in discussions regarding a potential minority investment in Allied Blenders and Distillers. The goal of these talks is to form a strategic alliance that leverages the strengths of both entities within the whisky industry. By acquiring 10-15% of the promoters stake, Suntory aims to enhance its footprint in India's booming whisky market, amidst rising competition from other players.
Nations League: Greece stun Germany; Netherlands, Portugal win
Greece secured a surprising 1-0 victory over hosts Germany in their Nations League Group A2 match, with Dimitris Kourbelis scoring the decisive goal. This defeat marks a difficult start for new German coach Juergen Klopp, who has now failed to win either of his first two matches in charge. The win puts Greece atop their group, while Germany remains on one point.
