Times of India

Pakistan coach Mike Hesson questioned Babar Azam’s powerplay strike rate ahead of the Super Eight clash against New Zealand, explaining his demotion during the Namibia match. Hesson also clarified Shaheen Shah Afridi’s omission, backed Salman Mirza’s inclusion, and dismissed talk of a rift with Salman Ali Agha.

Calling Rahul Gandhi a "traitor," a protesting BJP Yuva Morcha leader, who was being bundled into a van, said, "This shows their ideology against the country. If you want to protest, protest the policies. They have protested against their own country." In a statement, the Indian Youth Congress said its workers were protesting against a "compromised Prime Minister who has traded the identity of the country at the Al Summit".

Exiled Prince Reza Pahlavi has strongly criticized Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, accusing the Islamic Republic of betraying its people and faith. He urged Shia Muslims to reclaim their religion from what he called the "false prophet of our time," highlighting the regime's repression and violence. Pahlavi also called for unity among all Iranians, including minorities, against the current leadership.

The buzz around Dhurandhar 2 is steadily reaching fever pitch. After the historic box office run of the first installment, the team is now preparing to drop the much-anticipated trailer — and it’s arriving sooner than expected.

Despite reaching the Super 8s, Pakistan faces criticism for tactical blunders. Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif questioned head coach Mike Hesson's decisions, particularly fielding first against India on a slow pitch. Kaif highlighted questionable bowling changes and spinner usage, suggesting Hesson's extensive coaching experience wasn't evident in these crucial moments.

A Carnegie survey revealed 71% of Indian Americans disapproved of Donald Trump's job performance in his second term. The findings showed substantial criticism compared to the general US population, with major disapproval for his handling of immigration, the economy, and US-India relations.

The New Zealand MMA fighter Dan Hooker has become the center of online attention after an unverified infidelity rumor began circulating on the social media. An Instagram influencer known as ‘Keekgrace’ accused the UFC lightweight of cheating and shared screenshots of alleged messages along with photos of the two together.

Malayalam superstar Mohanlal, now commanding crores, began his acting journey with a modest Rs 2,000 for his debut film 'Manjil Virinja Pookkal'. Instead of personal gain, the young actor generously donated his entire first pay check to a local orphanage, showcasing his remarkable compassion from the very start of his illustrious career.

India opener Abhishek Sharma has struggled in the T20 World Cup with three ducks, but the team management continues to back him. Coach Morne Morkel said there is no talk of dropping him. Sunil Gavaskar feels pressure is affecting his game and advised him to build innings patiently. Assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate said Abhishek showed good form in the nets and should bounce back in the Super 8s.

​​India was among more than 100 countries and international organisations that condemned Israel's ongoing efforts to consolidate control over the West Bank in a joint statement at the UN, saying such measures violated international law and undermined the ongoing efforts for peace and stability in the region. India endorsed the statement late on Wednesday, just before the deadline for joint condemnation lapsed.

The Indian Youth Congress staged a shirtless protest at the AI Summit, calling the Prime Minister "compromised" and highlighting the anger of unemployed youth. The group stated their demonstration was against perceived compromises on national interests. The protest drew sharp criticism from the BJP, accusing the Congress of attempting to humiliate India.

Pakistan's government has overturned a two-year ban on national hockey captain Ammad Shakeel Butt, deeming the action by the former PHF president "illegal and unconstitutional." The ban followed Butt's criticism of federation mismanagement during a disastrous Australia tour, where players faced poor accommodation and unpaid allowances. The Prime Minister's appointee reversed the ban, aiming to repair damage to Pakistan hockey.

Milano Cortina Winter Olympics gold medalist Alysa Liu is known for her success on the ice, but her life at home is just as special. The American figure skater grew up in a large and unique family in California. She is the oldest of five children. Her father, Arthur Liu, raised all five kids as a single parent. Alysa has often spoken about how important her family is to her life and career.

Crypto giant Tether is now a leading gold buyer, acquiring nearly two tonnes weekly, surpassing many nations. This move, driven by its tokenized gold product and diversification strategy, sees the company amassing significant bullion reserves. Tether's substantial gold purchases are reshaping global demand, with its holdings now rivaling central bank levels.

The US has significantly boosted its military presence in the Gulf with two aircraft carrier strike groups and advanced stealth fighters, citing tensions with Iran over its nuclear program and regional stability. This build-up, including reinforced missile defense systems, aims to secure the vital Strait of Hormuz, a key global energy corridor.

Union home minister Amit Shah accused the Congress of leaving Assam's borders open to infiltrators, aiming to alter the state's demographics. He contrasted this with the BJP government's efforts under CM Himanta Biswa Sarma, who he stated cleared vast lands occupied by infiltrators. Shah also highlighted the BJP's infrastructure development achievements in Assam.

Contrary to initial fears, India's IT services sector is poised to benefit from AI advancements, a Jefferies report suggests. Instead of job losses, companies are seeing increased demand for customized AI solutions built on proprietary data. This shift widens the industry's market, potentially easing economic concerns and boosting valuations.

BJP has accused the Congress of disrupting the AI Impact Summit to damage India's global image, alleging the protest was directed by Rahul Gandhi. Youth Congress workers staged a demonstration, raising slogans against the Prime Minister, leading to detentions. BJP leaders condemned the act as an attempt to embarrass India on the world stage.