Times of India

Chennai Super Kings enter IPL 2026 at a crossroads, carrying both legacy and last-place disappointment. Major trades, including Jadeja and Curran’s exit and Samson’s arrival, signal a new direction. With gaps in finishing, spin and pace, CSK head into the auction with a big purse and urgent needs as they prepare for life beyond MS Dhoni.

Boston Bruins defenseman Charlie McAvoy has opened up for the first time since suffering a severe facial injury that has kept him out of the lineup. The NHL star detailed the extent of the damage, the unexpected challenges he’s facing daily, and why his recovery remains a difficult road. His comments offer clarity for fans following ongoing NHL injury updates.

Indian chess prodigy R Praggnanandhaa has earned a coveted spot in the Candidates 2026 tournament by triumphing in the FIDE Circuit 2025. His stellar year, marked by victories in major events, secures his sole male representation for India. Seven participants are confirmed, with one remaining spot to be decided by rating.

India's MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that "democracy and Pakistan don't go together" while monitoring developments. He also highlighted strong India-US counter-terrorism cooperation, with both nations pushing for tougher UN actions against Pakistan-based terror groups like LeT and JeM.

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the Lok Sabha, accusing him of lacking historical facts in his Vande Mataram debate. She highlighted Rabindranath Tagore's first rendition at a Congress convention and the song's role in the freedom struggle, contrasting it with the PM's narrative of Congress compromises.

India's Ministry of External Affairs has urged Chinese authorities to ensure fair treatment for Indian travelers transiting through their airports. This statement follows reports of alleged harassment of an Arunachal Pradesh woman, prompting an advisory for Indian nationals to exercise caution when traveling to or through China.

Lakshita Bhagtani transitioned from biotechnology to management studies at the University of Exeter, navigating the complexities of international education. She highlights the importance of thorough research, managing unexpected expenses like daily transport, and adapting to a new academic environment. Building a community and balancing studies with part-time work were crucial for her successful transition.

Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan urged Shubman Gill to seize his T20 opening opportunity against South Africa, emphasizing the need to solidify his spot for the 2026 World Cup. Pathan also highlighted the crucial search for a reliable finisher to support Hardik Pandya, naming Axar Patel, Jitesh Sharma, and Rinku Singh as potential candidates for the vital role.

Charlise Castro, a former Division I softball standout and America East Player of the Year, forged her own path beyond being George Springer's wife. After excelling in athletics, she pursued an MBA and built a credible career in wellness coaching, demonstrating ambition and resilience. Her journey highlights how partners of elite athletes can cultivate independent identities and success.

Congress criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi for allegedly rewriting history and politicizing the Lok Sabha debate on 'Vande Mataram'. Deputy leader Gaurav Gogoi accused the PM of repeatedly mentioning Nehru and Congress to revise historical contributions. Gogoi asserted Congress's pivotal role in elevating 'Vande Mataram' to national song status, highlighting its adoption at party sessions.

Aviation minister K Rammohan Naidu has vowed "very, very strict action" against IndiGo for its recent flight disruptions, citing internal lapses in crew management and roster planning. He clarified the issue is unrelated to past system malfunctions, emphasizing that the airline's mismanagement caused the crisis. Naidu stressed that accountability is paramount, promising to set an industry example.

Starlink has unveiled its satellite internet plans for India, charging Rs 8,600 monthly with a Rs 34,000 hardware kit. Promising unlimited data and high uptime, the service targets remote areas. With regulatory approval secured, Starlink aims to compete with existing providers, offering a 30-day trial for its plug-and-play solution.

Ravichandran Ashwin has appealed to Indian cricket fans for more constructive online discussions. He highlighted the negative trend of personal attacks following recent team performances. Ashwin stressed that debates should focus on selection and on-field output, not on labeling players. He believes this approach will foster a more positive environment for the sport and its followers.

Indian cricketer Smriti Mandhana and music composer Palash Muchhal have officially called off their wedding, which was previously postponed due to Mandhana's father's hospitalisation. Both stars confirmed the cancellation on Instagram, with Mandhana urging for privacy and emphasising her continued focus on representing India in cricket.

American lawmakers have contacted Google and Apple. They want details on app removals used to track immigration officers. Apps like ICEBlock were reportedly used to monitor agents. This action follows earlier concerns about apps enabling anonymous tracking. Both tech giants had previously removed such applications. Separately, a singer criticized the White House for using her song in an ICE video.

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray accused the Maharashtra government of fearing the opposition despite its majority, citing the handling of the Council's Leader of Opposition appointment. He also criticized Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis for deleting a social media post on the IndiGo crisis and questioned the use of chartered flights by BJP leaders amid passenger suffering.

India's defence aviation is set for a significant upgrade with Tata Advanced Systems and Lockheed Martin inaugurating a dedicated C-130J Super Hercules MRO facility in Bengaluru. This collaboration strengthens in-country sustainment for the Indian Air Force and aims to serve global operators, boosting India's defence manufacturing capabilities and aerospace ecosystem.

The Reserve Bank of India has cut the repo rate by 25 basis points, signaling a dovish outlook amid slowing growth expectations. This move, coupled with liquidity infusion measures, aims to boost the real economy. Despite strong headline GDP figures, the policy focuses on future growth sustainability, considering moderating base effects and manageable inflation.

A man, an accused in a double murder case, was brutally attacked and killed in Jawaharnagar. Stabbed, bludgeoned with stones, and then shot, the victim was identified as inspector Venkataratnam. Police suspect past enmity as the motive and are using CCTV footage to identify the assailants who fled the scene.