Times of India

Two years ago, Gautam Gambhir was appointed Team India's coach after he mentored the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to the Indian Premier League (IPL) title. With the next T20 extravaganza cycle underway, IPL 2026 should be the audition for India's next T20I captain. The selectors must keep their eyes open because choosing the right man for the captaincy will not be easy.

Two Indian nationals have died and 10 others were injured in an attack in Sohar city, Oman. Five of the injured have been discharged from the hospital, while the remaining five are receiving medical treatment. Indian authorities are in contact with Omani officials and are providing assistance to the affected nationals.

The BCCI has no say in Sunrisers signing Pakistan spinner Abrar Ahmed for The Hundred. This is an overseas league. The franchise faces social media criticism. Owner Kavya Maran is targeted. The official X account of Sunrisers Leeds was reportedly suspended. The BCCI cannot intervene in this matter. The franchise has not issued a statement.

Thousands of Chinese fishing boats formed unusual geometric patterns in the East China Sea, raising questions about potential military or strategic mobilization. Experts suggest these large-scale, coordinated gatherings, unlike normal fishing, may indicate preparations for crisis scenarios involving Taiwan or Japan.

Former England youth international Amy Carr has sadly passed away at the age of 35 after fighting a brain tumour for more than a decade. Carr, who once played for top clubs such as Chelsea F.C. Women, Arsenal W.F.C., and Reading F.C. Women, inspired many people through her courage and determination during her illness. She was first diagnosed with a high-grade brain tumour in 2015.

US President Trump claimed that Iran is "about to surrender" during a G7 call earlier this week, while describing Iran regime as removing a "cancer." Amidst escalating regional strikes, Iran reportedly targeted the USS Abraham Lincoln, though the US denied the incident. CENTCOM confirmed the carrier strike group's ongoing support for operations.

Atlassian has laid off approximately 1,600 employees, about 10% of its global workforce, to invest more in AI and enterprise sales. The cuts primarily affected R&D roles. CEO Mike Cannon-Brookes highlighted the difficult decision, emphasizing the need for competitiveness. The company is offering generous severance packages, with redundancy and office exit costs estimated at over $236 million.

High-energy lasers are emerging as a cost-effective defense against drones and missiles, with costs as low as $3.50 per shot compared to millions for missile interceptors. Despite decades of development and some deployments, challenges remain in scaling the technology for widespread military use due to environmental limitations and production hurdles.

Sunny Deol’s ‘Border 2’ (Jan 23, 2026 release) earned Rs 392cr+ worldwide. Now on OTT from March 20. Anurag Singh directs 1971 Indo-Pak war saga with Varun Dhawan, Diljit Dosanjh, Ahan Shetty honoring real heroes. Action-packed drama blends battles, sacrifices, and hit track “Ghar Kab Aoge.”

Gold prices saw a significant dip on Friday, with futures trade closing at Rs 1.59 lakh per 10 grams. This decline was influenced by weaker international trends and a stronger US dollar. Analysts highlight the strengthening dollar as a key pressure point, while geopolitical risks and economic signals remain under close observation by traders.

Washington underestimated Iran's threat to close the Strait of Hormuz, causing global oil market jitters. Despite planning, economic fallout wasn't fully accounted for, leaving the US scrambling. While officials claim preparedness, limited options and high risks for naval escorts are evident. Iran signals the strait's closure remains a pressure tool.

Southern Braves coach Hemang Badani detailed the challenges of cricket auctions, emphasising discipline and patience. The team secured a mix of experienced players like Chris Jordan and Marcus Stoinis, alongside promising talent such as Thomas Rew. Badani highlighted David Miller's acquisition as a strategic move for finishing games.

Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan believes this IPL season could be MS Dhoni's last for Chennai Super Kings. Pathan emphasized Dhoni's crucial role in team unity and grooming future leaders, even if his playing time is limited. He suggested CSK aims for a title win to give the legend a fitting farewell.

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held his fourth phone call with Iranian FM Abbas Araghchi, discussing bilateral ties and BRICS issues amidst Middle East tensions. The conversation followed recent discussions on the Strait of Hormuz and maritime security, with Iran blaming US actions for regional instability.

Iran's participation in the upcoming FIFA World Cup is uncertain due to geopolitical tensions with the United States, a co-host. Citing security and political concerns, Iranian authorities are contemplating withdrawal. If Iran pulls out, FIFA will need to select a replacement, likely from the Asian Football Confederation, with UAE and Iraq being potential candidates.

A US KC-135 refueling aircraft crashed in western Iraq on Friday, resulting in the deaths of four of its six crew members. The US military confirmed the incident is under investigation but ruled out hostile or friendly fire. This marks the fourth US military aircraft loss in the Middle East conflict.

Indian cricketer Kuldeep Yadav will marry his longtime partner Vanshika Chadha on March 14 in Mussoorie. The couple, childhood friends from Kanpur, saw their friendship grow into a lifelong relationship. Vanshika works at the Life Insurance Corporation of India and maintains a private life away from the spotlight. Wedding festivities begin March 13, with cricket stars like Virat Kohli expected to attend.