Times of India

Shimron Hetmyer smashed a blistering 19-ball half-century at the Wankhede Stadium, setting a new West Indies record in T20 World Cup history. This remarkable feat surpassed Chris Gayle's previous record of 23 balls. Hetmyer's aggressive innings showcased the Caribbean team's fearless approach to the game.

India is expected to push for clauses that protect against similar judicial setbacks in the future. One source noted that the decision has materially weakened Trump’s negotiating leverage.

Iran has received anonymous texts hinting at US action, amid escalating tensions with President Trump. The US has bolstered its military presence in the Middle East, considering strikes even as diplomatic talks loom. Meanwhile, renewed anti-government protests are sweeping across Iran, amplifying fears of a potential conflict.

Head coach Gautam Gambhir was seen in an intense discussion with struggling opener Abhishek Sharma on the team bus in Chennai. Sharma has had a difficult run in the T20 World Cup 2026, scoring only 15 runs in four matches. This conversation comes ahead of India's crucial Super 8 clash against Zimbabwe.

America faces recurring government shutdowns. These are not due to a lack of money but a failure to pass spending bills. Recent shutdowns have impacted various agencies, causing furloughs and service disruptions. These funding crises stem from political disagreements, not financial insolvency. India's parliamentary system prevents similar administrative paralysis.

India's underwater defense is advancing significantly. The INS Aridhaman, a new nuclear submarine, will soon join the fleet. This strengthens India's ability to retaliate if attacked. With three such submarines, India can maintain a constant presence at sea. This development enhances national security and strategic deterrence in the region.

The Centre defended its decision to lower NEET-PG qualifying percentiles before the Supreme Court, stating the exam generates a merit list for limited seats, not certify minimum competence. The government argued that licensed MBBS doctors are already qualified and supervised during postgraduate studies, addressing concerns about patient safety due to vacant seats.

South Africa's tactical approach, mirroring other teams, exploited India's predictable batting order and poor shot selection. India's over-reliance on left-handers and lack of a Plan B proved costly, leading to a significant defeat in the T20 World Cup Super Eight. India now face crucial selection decisions for the game against Zimbabwe to address these vulnerabilities.

British tennis player Tara Moore has filed a $20 million lawsuit against the WTA, saying the anti-doping system was negligent. She claims the tour did not warn players about the risk of contaminated meat in Bogotá, Colombia, which she says caused her positive test for banned substances.

Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin accused former chief adviser Muhammad Yunus of constitutional breaches and attempts to destabilize the country and presidency. Shahabuddin stated Yunus failed to brief him on foreign visits and alleged a conspiracy to unconstitutionally replace him. The president also described his office being deliberately isolated and handicapped during the interim government period.

President Droupadi Murmu unveiled a bust of India's first and only Indian Governor General, Chakravarti Rajagopalachari, at Rashtrapati Bhavan, replacing that of British architect Edwin Lutyens. Prime Minister Modi hailed the move as an act of "mental decolonisation," highlighting Rajagopalachari's inspiring public life and contributions.

India has launched its first comprehensive anti-terror policy named PRAHAAR. This policy addresses threats from cross-border terrorism, cyber-attacks, and the misuse of drones. It highlights the use of advanced technologies by terror groups for propaganda and funding. PRAHAAR emphasizes coordinated legal, technological, and community-based responses to combat evolving security challenges.

In 2026, the global economic narrative has shifted from the initial excitement of AI to a more calculated and sometimes cautious phase. Citrini Research highlights a move away from the basic hardware race toward "Phase 2" of the AI trade, where the focus lies on operational efficiency and the displacement of high-cost human labor. While corporate margins are expanding through automation and lean structures, there is a growing concern over "Ghost GDP".

Sotheby’s International Realty sees 2025 as a watershed moment for the city’s ultra-luxury property segment, with nearly 1,494 homes in the Rs 10 crore-plus category sold over the 12-month period.

Dwarka Expressway is rapidly transforming into a prime real estate hub in Delhi-NCR, attracting homebuyers and investors with its enhanced connectivity to Delhi, Gurugram, and the airport. The corridor's modern planning, coupled with luxury developments and future infrastructure, is driving significant property value appreciation and offering lucrative investment opportunities.

India's decision to bench vice-captain Axar Patel for the T20 World Cup Super 8 clash against South Africa has drawn sharp criticism. Former captain Ajinkya Rahane questioned the move, stating that overthinking selection and not backing a proven performer like Patel, despite his vice-captaincy, backfired. Washington Sundar's underwhelming performance further fueled the debate after India's heavy defeat.