Times of India

US Vice President JD Vance engaged in high-level meetings with Iranian officials in Switzerland, marking a crucial step towards solidifying a recent interim agreement. The key discussions revolved around encouraging Iran's adherence to nuclear talks and pursuing a comprehensive ceasefire in the region, notably addressing the escalating conflict in Lebanon. Iran reiterated its focus on prioritizing regional security amid these vital negotiations.

England captain Ben Stokes will return for the third Test against New Zealand despite an ongoing disciplinary investigation over a curfew breach. Coach Brendon McCullum confirmed Stokes will lead the side after impressing with Durham. Gus Atkinson is also in line for a comeback. McCullum dismissed talk of tensions, insisting there remains mutual respect between him and Stokes.

Matt Henry delivered a career-defining performance at The Oval, claiming 11 wickets to help New Zealand level the Test series against England. His exceptional spell, including a devastating 6-29 in the second innings, etched his name in the venue's history, mirroring legendary feats. Recovered from an injury-plagued first Test, Henry's resurgence showcased his prowess as New Zealand's leading pace bowler.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis hinted at a significant political shift involving Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Omraje Nimbalkar, suggesting a successful "operation" and promising "breaking news" soon from Deputy CM Eknath Shinde. Nimbalkar met supporters to discuss his future, amid speculation he might join the Shinde-led Shiv Sena. This potential defection follows his father's acquittal in a murder case, which he plans to challenge in the high court.

Blaming Trump for rising fuel prices, he criticised the Modi government's foreign policy, saying India had moved away from its long-standing non-aligned approach. "India followed a policy of non-alignment since Nehru's time and maintained good relations with all countries. But that policy has been abandoned, and Modi, by going around calling everyone his friend and hugging them, has brought us to this situation."

For over 300 years, Royal Ascot has been one of Britain's grandest social events. But on screen, the horses are often little more than supporting cast. The real drama unfolds in the stands — in the hats, the hierarchy and the silent performance of belonging.

Joe Root's batting prowess shone at The Oval, but England's heavy defeat to New Zealand saw him equal Stephen Fleming's record for most Test captaincy losses with 27. Despite a strong performance from Root, England's depleted side, featuring three debutants, struggled against a dominant New Zealand, who secured a commanding 253-run victory. Matt Henry's exceptional bowling proved decisive in the series-levelling win.

Karnataka BJP is investigating alleged cross-voting by its MLAs in the recent Legislative Council polls, which saw the ruling Congress secure a significant victory. Party president B Y Vijayendra announced a legislature party meeting at Dharmasthala, where MLAs might take an oath before Lord Manjunatha to reveal the truth. He termed the alleged betrayal a serious matter that will be pursued to its conclusion, aiming to restore party worker confidence.

India's Navy is enhancing its maritime warfare capabilities by integrating new vessels into a cohesive network. INS Dunagiri, a stealth frigate, INS Sanshodhak, a survey ship, and INS Agray, an anti-submarine craft, were commissioned, showcasing a strategy focused on layered awareness and combat power. This integrated approach aims to bolster India's security in the increasingly active Indian Ocean.

Acclaimed actor Giancarlo Esposito, famous for 'Breaking Bad' and 'The Boys', has embraced Islam. He reportedly recited the Shahada, the declaration of faith, while filming his latest project, '7 Dogs', in Saudi Arabia. The news was shared by Turki Alalshikh, Chairman of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority, via social media, accompanied by a video of Esposito praying.

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor Arvind Kejriwal has alleged that "big names" are involved in the Ram Temple donation theft case, claiming the government could face collapse if their identities are revealed. He questioned the lack of FIRs despite reports of crores in cash and valuables being stolen, urging swift action to protect public faith over political interests.

Javed Akhtar has once again voiced his strong opinions online, this time criticizing former US President Donald Trump's remarks about Italian PM Giorgia Meloni. Akhtar defended Meloni, questioning Trump's claims and his character. When a user brought religion into the debate, Akhtar firmly reiterated his atheist identity, stating his community is all Indians.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer faces intense pressure following Andy Burnham's return to Parliament, sparking leadership challenge speculation. Despite denials from senior ministers, Starmer is reportedly reflecting on his position amid Labour's recent electoral setbacks and declining approval. Burnham has signaled his ambition, warning the party needs a "final chance to change." Starmer, however, vows to contest any leadership bid, insisting he will not step aside voluntarily.

Cricket Ireland has confirmed the upcoming T20I series against India will proceed as planned in Belfast on June 26 and 28. Following a security review with local authorities, officials are confident in the safety measures for players and spectators. This marks India's return to Stormont after nearly two decades, with anticipation building around potential senior debut for young sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi.

Pop sensation Olivia Rodrigo is set to make a grand entrance into Fortnite, with her collaboration officially confirmed. Fans caught a glimpse of her upcoming Icon Series skin, inspired by her latest album, through a social media story. The highly anticipated cosmetic bundle, featuring an outfit, back bling, and more, is expected to launch with Fortnite Festival Season 15 around July 29, 2026, likely priced around 2,500 V-Bucks.

Jasprit Bumrah has returned to India's ODI squad for the England series after being rested for the Afghanistan ODIs. Since the 2023 World Cup, the pace spearhead has missed eight ODI assignments as part of workload management. With India beginning a new World Cup cycle, Bumrah's return provides a major boost to the team's pace attack in English conditions.

A small-town US family has sold their Louisiana-based electrical-equipment company Fibrebond to power-management giant Eaton for $1.7 billion—and made sure their 540 full-time workers got a $240 million cut of it. Former CEO Graham Walker wrote a single clause into the deal: 15% of proceeds for the staff, none of whom held any equity. The average bonus works out to around $443,000 per worker.

UK mobile giants Virgin Media O2 and VodafoneThree have activated a new 'kill switch' for new phones stolen from their stores, aiming to cripple the black market for stolen devices. This move follows resistance from major manufacturers like Apple and Samsung to a universal anti-theft lock. The technology renders stolen, unsold handsets unusable remotely, a measure previously seen in the Netherlands.