Times of India

Sanju Samson faces immense pressure in the final T20I against New Zealand, needing a strong performance to silence critics amid a lean patch. Former player Irfan Pathan advocates for Samson's consistent batting order placement, while also highlighting the importance of players like Tilak Varma for team balance and temperament.

India's Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal expressed no disappointment over delays in the India-US trade deal, emphasizing that each nation prioritizes its interests. He confirmed ongoing friendly negotiations, suggesting a potential conclusion this year. Goyal highlighted India's commitment to fair trade and safeguarding its economic sensitivities, even as it pursues other FTAs.

Nighttime pain is a common experience, often dismissed as a nuisance. However, this persistent discomfort can signal underlying health conditions. Experts explain that rest at night can worsen pain from muscle and joint degeneration, nerve issues, or gastrointestinal problems. Persistent nighttime pain, especially with other symptoms, requires medical attention. Ignoring this pain means the body's signals go unheard.

Indian stock markets will operate on Sunday, February 1, 2026, for the Union Budget presentation, a rare occurrence. Both BSE and NSE confirmed normal trading hours, with only specialized sessions like T+0 settlement suspended. This marks the first Sunday Budget presentation since 2000, while the year's holiday schedule remains unchanged.

A retired Indian Air Force officer, Awadhesh Kumar Pathak, was critically injured after being shot by two unidentified assailants at his restaurant in Lucknow. The incident occurred Friday night, with the victim sustaining a bullet wound. Police are investigating all possible angles, including personal enmity and business rivalry, and are reviewing CCTV footage to identify the attackers.

Pakistan's prime minister Shehbaz Sharif revealed a difficult truth. He and Army Chief Asim Munir sought billions in loans from friendly nations. This was done quietly to bridge the country's external financing gap. Sharif acknowledged the compromises involved in seeking such aid. China was a key supporter. Pakistan has a history of relying on the IMF for financial support.

Sharad Pawar revealed merger talks between NCP factions were advanced before Ajit Pawar's death, aiming to fulfill his nephew's wish. He denied prior knowledge of Sunetra Pawar's potential deputy CM role, stating decisions are made in Mumbai without his consultation. Pawar also dismissed speculation about joining the NDA.

Sunny Deol's 'Border 2' continues its box office dominance, crossing Rs 300 crore worldwide within its first week. Despite a slight dip on weekdays, the film collected Rs 11 crore on its eighth day, heading towards the Rs 350 crore mark. The war drama has garnered Rs 235.25 crore net in India and Rs 322.5 crore globally.

A CBI chargesheet revealed that ghee supplied to Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) was synthetic, not cow ghee, and blended with vegetable oils. Laboratory tests indicated very low milk fat content and the presence of palm oil and/or palm kernel oil. The report suggested the absence of cholesterol made tallow, lard, and fish oil presence very low.

WWE Royal Rumble 2026 is set for a historic debut in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, featuring two namesake Rumble matches and a blockbuster Undisputed WWE Championship bout. AJ Styles faces a career-threatening match against Gunther, while Roman Reigns and Brock Lesnar are confirmed for the men's Rumble. The event promises surprise returns and debuts, making it a must-watch spectacle.

The US has permitted India to resume Venezuelan oil purchases, aiming to reduce its reliance on Russian crude. This move is part of a broader US strategy to redirect India's energy imports away from Russia amidst growing pressure and trade costs. India is set to significantly cut Russian crude imports in the coming months, diversifying its supply sources.

Real estate tycoon CJ Roy has died. His family blames income tax officials from Kerala for his death. Roy, owner of Confident Group, was under investigation. He had a large social media following. His last post was for Republic Day. The family is expected to arrive in Bengaluru soon. Investigations into the circumstances are ongoing.

Former Pakistan cricketer Rashid Latif feels Pakistan acted late on the T20 World Cup 2026 issue. The Pakistan Cricket Board awaits government clearance for participation. Latif suggests the window for a significant protest has closed. Pakistan's squad departure is scheduled, indicating participation. A final decision is expected soon.

Swami Avimukteshwaranand has challenged Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to declare the cow 'state mother' and ban beef exports within 40 days. Failure to do so, he warned, will lead to saints gathering in Lucknow on March 11 to label the CM a 'fake Hindu'. The seer emphasized cow protection and dharma as true tests of being Hindu.

Pakistan's Under-19 World Cup hopes face a blow as wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Shayan is ruled out due to a fractured nose. This setback comes ahead of their crucial virtual knockout match against India, which will decide the final semi-finalist. Afghanistan and England have already secured their spots in the final four.

Defence sector stocks: On the whole, the upcoming Indian defence budget outlook, would see “capital step-up” with at least a 15% increase. Where the structural reality of committed liabilities, would support of a multi-year award cycle.

A devastating landslide caused a mine collapse in Rubaya, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. Over 200 people, including miners, children, and market women, lost their lives. The incident occurred at a coltan mine, a vital source for global technology. Authorities are still assessing the exact casualty count. The collapse is attributed to heavy seasonal rains weakening the ground.