Times of India

Rohit Sharma leads the ICC Men's T20I Team of the Year 2024, reflecting India's dominance in the format. His remarkable performance, along with standout contributions from Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, and Hardik Pandya, highlights India's successful World Cup campaign. The all-star team features top players from Australia, England, Pakistan, West Indies, Zimbabwe, Afghanistan, and Sri Lanka.

Former India cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin supports Ajit Agarkar amidst debates over India's Champions Trophy squad. He acknowledges the challenges faced by selectors due to India's deep talent pool. Ashwin stresses the need for prioritising performances under pressure, citing players like Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, and Ruturaj Gaikwad, and the importance of a structured approach in selecting players for major tournaments.

Aam Aadmi Party released a poster accusing various leaders of dishonesty, including PM Modi and Congress's Rahul Gandhi. This action has escalated tensions between AAP and Congress, with Congress leader Alka Lamba challenging AAP's commitment to the INDIA bloc. The situation reflects ongoing internal conflicts and power struggles within the opposition against the BJP.

India and Indonesia have agreed to enhance collaboration in defense, maritime security, and several emerging sectors. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto signed key agreements in New Delhi, emphasizing the historical connection and mutual cooperation. Both leaders aim to boost economic and cultural ties, and maintain peace in the Indo-Pacific region.

Baba Artatrana, known for his healing touch, claims to cure diseases like cancer and COVID-19 by touch. Active since 2007, he offers treatments through touch, phone, and YouTube. He attributes his abilities to Lord Shiva's blessings and travels globally to share his powers. The Mahakumbh, where he is currently based, continues until February 26.

The extradition of 26/11 attack accused Tahawwur Rana to India could shed light on the involvement of Pakistan's security apparatus, says public prosecutor Ujjwal Nikam. The U.S. Supreme Court's approval of Rana's extradition is considered a significant triumph for India.

Former Pakistan cricketer Rashid Latif criticized the decision to make Indian veterans Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli play domestic cricket ahead of significant white-ball fixtures. He believes they should focus on upcoming international assignments, citing their past success in major tournaments without needing domestic matches. Latif expressed that Rohit and Kohli should focus on their upcoming white-ball assignments against England and next month’s Champions Trophy in Dubai.

Veteran cricketer Cheteshwar Pujara celebrated his 37th birthday with a touching tribute from his wife, Puja. Despite not being in the Indian national team since June 2023, Pujara's impressive career continues at the domestic level. The BCCI also honored his contributions to cricket. Pujara remains a source of inspiration both on and off the field.

Noman Ali became Pakistan’s first spinner to claim a Test hat-trick, achieving this during the second Test against the West Indies at Multan. Dismissing Justin Greaves, Tevin Imlach, and Kevin Sinclair in consecutive deliveries, he joins an elite group of Pakistani bowlers who have previously achieved Test hat tricks. The last Pakistani to claim a Test hat trick before Noman was Naseem Shah, who achieved the feat against Bangladesh at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium in February 2020.

BJP candidate Parvesh Verma criticised AAP's Arvind Kejriwal over the unfulfilled promise of cleaning the Yamuna River. During a rally, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also accused AAP of developing illegal settlements and failing to improve the river's condition.

Sanju Samson's exclusion from India's ICC Champions Trophy squad has sparked surprise, with Harbhajan Singh criticising the decision due to Samson's impressive ODI average. Singh also questioned the omission of leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal and voiced concerns over Yashasvi Jaiswal's role in the team. Key players like Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, and Virat Kohli lead the squad.

West Indies captain Kraigg Brathwaite chose to bat first against Pakistan in the second Test match in Multan. West Indies made two roster changes, introducing Kemar Roach and debutant Amir Jangoo. Pakistan, who lead the series 1-0, brought in debutant Kashif Ali. This series is part of the World Test Championship's third cycle.

In response to Prime Minister Modi's commendation of the Election Commission on National Voter's Day, Congress criticised the PM-HM duo for allegedly compromising the Commission’s independence and professionalism. They cited Supreme Court challenges and concerns from recent Haryana and Maharashtra assembly elections as examples.

Pakistan head coach Aaqib Javed cited the lack of domestic four-day cricket as the reason for Shaheen Shah Afridi's absence from the Test lineup. Javed emphasised the need for fast bowlers to balance league and four-day matches to maintain their stamina for Test cricket. He also defended Pakistan's use of spin-friendly pitches to secure home victories.

US President Trump made several inaccurate and misleading statements during his recent appearances. He exaggerated his election victory margin, falsely claimed a significant youth vote win, misrepresented California's water policies and wildfire management, downplayed the January 6th Capitol riot violence, and overstated immigration numbers. He also incorrectly stated that FEMA ended housing assistance for hurricane survivors.

Indian cricketer Kuldeep Yadav's humorous comment about Royal Challengers Bengaluru needing a trophy instead of a goalkeeper sparked a social media uproar. The remark, referencing RCB's elusive IPL title, entertained many but irked RCB fans. Kuldeep, known for his vital contributions to India's team, later clarified on Twitter, urging fans to relax.

A rare 'corpse flower' bloom in Sydney's Royal Botanic Gardens has attracted over 20,000 visitors. The flower, which emits a scent resembling decaying meat, is blooming for the first time in 15 years. Efforts are being made to hand-pollinate it to ensure reproduction.

A 5-year-old child was allegedly harassed at a Rewa district kindergarten after soiling his uniform. School caretakers reportedly forced the child to clean himself and kept him unclothed. Following a complaint by the child's parents, the caretaker was terminated, and an investigation was launched by the district education officer.