Times of India

The 2026/27 Premier League season begins with Arsenal defending their title and three promoted clubs returning to the top flight. With nine English clubs competing in Europe, another fiercely contested title race and battles for European qualification and survival expected, the new campaign promises plenty of drama. Here’s everything you need to know, including key statistics, players, managers and opening fixtures.

Ashton Hall teamed up with Conor McGregor for a high-energy Mac Energy shoot just eight days after McGregor’s knee surgery. Hall called the experience a “war with my brother,” while McGregor said he ignored his doctor’s advice to rest. McGregor is recovering from an ACL and meniscus injury suffered during his UFC 329 fight with Max Holloway earlier this summer.

Economic think tank Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI) said the change means eligible rupee payments for exports to countries other than Nepal and Bhutan will now qualify for FTP benefits and can also be counted towards meeting export obligations.

India is set to boost its solar cell production capability in the near future. This project is designed to comply with local-content regulations and to close the existing supply deficiencies. By December 2027, a noticeable increase in cell output is anticipated, driven by new investments aimed at ensuring long-term energy resilience. The market is evolving to meet local demands, effectively alleviating supply issues.

The 2026 US Open will offer a record $108 million in player compensation. Singles champions will each receive $5.5 million, a significant increase from previous years. Even first-round losers will earn a record $140,000, reflecting broader prize money hikes. A new player support program and a Grand Slam Player Council were also announced. This initiative aims to strengthen financial support and player involvement in tournament decisions.

Roman Reigns and Rey Mysterio are two different generations of WWE success. Reigns has generated more present-day earning power from his premium WWE position, merchandise royalties and entertainment work, while Mysterio’s wealth reflects almost four decades in wrestling, licensing and merchandise. A look at their estimated net worth, career earnings, endorsements, assets and lasting WWE legacy explains why Reigns is winning the money game.

Bengali actor Jaayjeet Banerjee was involved in a troubling accident near Tollygunge Karunamoyee Bridge when a speeding lorry collided with his car while he descended towards Haridevpur. Although the damage was substantial on the right side of his vehicle, Banerjee escaped without severe injuries. He has filed a report with the police and is anxious about the lorry driver’s well-being, urging Kolkata Police to take necessary actions.

The much-anticipated trailer for 'Hi,' a romance drama starring Nayanthara and Kavin, has just been released. Directed by Vishnu Edavan, this film, hitting theaters on August 28, follows Kavin's quest for love as he encounters Nayanthara, a woman challenging societal norms. Their unlikely marriage journey unfolds, offering a heartfelt exploration of love and companionship, joined by a talented cast including Bhagyaraj, Prabhu, and Radikaa Sarathkumar.

India advanced to the second round of the Women's Hockey World Cup after a tense draw. They held England to a 0-0 score, securing second place in their group. China topped Pool D with seven points, while England was eliminated from the competition. India's goalkeeper Bichu Devi made a crucial save in the final seconds. The team progressed with an unbeaten record of two draws and one win.

Speaking at the 31st meeting of the Southern Zonal Council chaired by Union home minister Amit Shah, Vijay, who is also the council's vice-chairman, sought an assurance from the Centre that states which have successfully stabilised their populations would not be penalised through a reduction in their parliamentary representation. He said the issue had become particularly important as the freeze on the allocation of Lok Sabha seats based on the 1971 Census nears its end.

A six-year-old boy collapsed and died in a classroom at a private school. His family alleges a teacher beat him for not completing his homework assignment. The incident, captured on video, shows the teacher admonishing and slapping the student. The boy was declared dead after being brought to KG Hospital. Police and officials are investigating the circumstances surrounding the tragic death.

Ohanna Shivanand, known earlier as Shilpa Anand, candidly addressed her sudden exit from the beloved series Dill Mill Gayye. She revealed that her departure was not by choice but stemmed from an unfortunate incident that occurred during a makeup room shift, leading to feelings of compromised self-respect. Despite the circumstances, she expressed that she has no resentment towards the show's producer.

Chairing the 31st meeting of the Southern Zonal Council in Tamil Nadu's Mahabalipuram, the Union home minister said: "The people of South India and the governments have also established many excellent traditions in the fields of innovation and revenue generation." He said that "the whole of India should learn from South India in these two areas," as per the home ministery's statement.

Uttar Pradesh elections now prioritize women voters, who are a significant electoral force. Women's turnout has consistently surpassed men's in recent polls. Parties are actively wooing women with welfare schemes and cash transfers. Both the BJP and Samajwadi Party are making substantial promises to female voters. Winning the trust of over six crore women voters will be crucial for electoral success.

H-1B visas have long been the main road for Indian professionals who are seeking employment, long-term career opportunities, and eventually even the green card in the US. But over the past two years, several changes in the H-1B visa application and selection criterion have added a huge layer of uncertainty.