Times of India

South African cricket star Kagiso Rabada faces a provisional suspension after testing positive for a recreational drug, confirmed by both the player and Cricket South Africa (CSA). Rabada, who recently left the Indian Premier League citing personal reasons, expressed regret but affirmed his commitment to the sport.

Amidst heightened tensions following a terrorist attack, India is reportedly considering a complete ban on direct and indirect trade with Pakistan. Concerns have arisen over $500 million worth of Pakistani goods, including dry fruits and chemicals, entering India via countries like the UAE and Sri Lanka.

Romario Shepherd's explosive batting propelled Royal Challengers Bengaluru to a formidable total against CSK. He etched his name in IPL history by smashing a 14-ball fifty, equalling the second-fastest half-century record. Shepherd's onslaught included a 33-run over and a display of power-hitting in the death overs, showcasing his finishing prowess with a staggering strike rate.

Ray Dalio, who predicted the 2008 crisis, warns that mishandled economic policies, particularly Trump's tariffs, could push the U.S. into a recession. He likens the tariffs' disruptive implementation to destabilizing the production system. Despite a tariff pause, Goldman Sachs estimates a significant chance of a recession within the next year, highlighting growing economic uncertainty.

Virat Kohli silenced critics with a blistering 62 off 33 balls against Chennai Super Kings, reaffirming his status as an IPL legend. He achieved the milestone of hitting 300 sixes for RCB and reclaimed the Orange Cap with 505 runs this season, marking his eighth 500+ run season, surpassing David Warner.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar engaged in discussions with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, addressing the recent Pahalgam terror attack and its impact on Indo-Pakistani relations. Lavrov advocated for resolving disagreements bilaterally through political and diplomatic channels, referencing the Simla Agreement of 1972 and the Lahore Declaration of 1999.

The Supreme Court is set to hear a plea on May 5 regarding BJP MP Nishikant Dubey's alleged derogatory remarks against the court and CJI. The petition seeks suo motu contempt proceedings, citing an attack on judicial dignity. Dubey criticized the Supreme Court's handling of the Waqf (Amendment) Act, claiming the court was overstepping its bounds and provoking religious discord.

Virat Kohli's dominance in the IPL is highlighted by his consistent performance, especially against Chennai Super Kings. He holds the record for most runs against a single opponent in IPL history, with 1,146 runs against CSK. Kohli also has the most fifty-plus scores against CSK, totaling 10. Kohli has now recorded four consecutive fifty-plus scores, equaling his own RCB record set nine years ago.

Declining travel demand, fueled by trade policy uncertainties and anti-American sentiment, threatens significant economic losses for the US. Major travel companies report stalled demand and withdrew projections, while analysts estimate reduced foreign travel expenditure could lower US GDP by billions. Americans are also showing caution in discretionary spending, exacerbating concerns about a potential recession.

Virat Kohli made history in the IPL. He became the first player to hit 300 sixes for Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Kohli scored 62 runs against Punjab Kings. This innings made him the orange cap holder with 505 runs. He now has the most IPL seasons with 500+ runs. Kohli also equaled his record for consecutive 50-plus scores for RCB.

CRPF jawan Munir Ahmed has been dismissed for concealing his marriage to a Pakistani national, a move considered a threat to national security. Ahmed, serving with the 41st battalion, was terminated without inquiry after it was discovered he married Menal Khan via video call and failed to report her visa overstay.

Intelligence agencies warned of a potential attack on tourists near Srinagar before the Pahalgam massacre, prompting increased security measures. Despite these efforts, terrorists struck, aiming to disrupt a symbolic event and instill fear. The attack also highlighted concerns about advanced weaponry and the need to avoid equating tourism with peace, while authorities addressed public concerns and halted controversial counter-terror tactics.

MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings opted to bowl first after winning the toss against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Saturday's IPL match. CSK retained their previous playing XI, aiming to assess player roles for the future, while RCB, with Lungi Ngidi replacing Josh Hazlewood, sought to improve their standing. RCB replaced Josh Hazlewood with Lungi Ngidi.

Sonu Nigam faces legal trouble after allegedly making disrespectful comments about the Kannadiga community during a Bengaluru concert. An FIR was filed based on a complaint by a Kannada organization, claiming his remarks were offensive and incited discord. The controversy arose when Nigam refused a fan's request for a Kannada song, leading to widespread outrage and a police investigation.

Anthony Albanese secured a second term as Australian Prime Minister, a feat unseen in two decades, with his Labor Party potentially increasing its majority. Narendra Modi congratulated Albanese, expressing eagerness to deepen the India-Australia partnership. Albanese emphasized Australia's independent approach to global challenges, focusing on domestic values and solutions amidst cost-of-living concerns and generational shifts in voter demographics.

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, which tragically killed 26 people, mostly tourists. Abdullah expressed his deep sorrow and responsibility for the incident, emphasizing his commitment to the safety of visitors in Kashmir.

Kagiso Rabada, the South African and Gujarat Titans pacer, has been provisionally suspended after testing positive for a recreational drug. Rabada expressed deep remorse for his actions and the disappointment he caused to his supporters, teammates, and family. He is currently serving a provisional suspension and is determined to return to cricket, focusing on hard work and dedication.

A Bloomberg analysis suggests a concerning alignment between President Donald Trump's rhetoric and Putin's agenda, particularly on Nato and Ukraine. While CNN reports US intelligence warnings about Russian interference benefiting Trump, expert Prof. Pant cautions against simplistic interpretations, highlighting Trump's unpredictability and Putin's historical ambitions.