F.B.I. Says It Found Largest Cache of Homemade Explosives in Its History at Va. Farm

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Vinod Kambli Dances In Hospital During Recovery, Video Goes Viral

Former India cricketer Vinod Kambli, currently recovering at a private hospital in Thane district, was seen in a video performing an energetic dance at the medical facility, a moment that left not only the staff but also social media buzzing. Kambli (52) initially complained of urinary infection and muscle cramps following which he was admitted to Akruti Hospital in the Kalher area of Bhiwandi town on December 21. Later, a series of medical examinations revealed clots in his brain.

His health condition is improving, doctors treating him said on Monday. After capturing the attention of his fans for his cricketing skills during playing days, the left-handed batter, who featured in 17 Tests and 104 ODIs, has now impressed his admirers with his dance moves from hospital ward, indicating significant improvement in his health.

The moment was captured on video, showing Kambli dancing to a popular song with remarkable enthusiasm, which inspired those around him. His upbeat performance lifted the spirits of hospital staff, other patients, and attendees alike. A nurse and another staffer are seen enthusiastically dancing with him.

In a heartfelt message on social media, Kambli expressed his gratitude to everyone who had supported him throughout his recovery journey.

"I have reached this far because of your love," he said.

The Mumbai-based former cricketer also thanked Shailesh Thakur, the hospital director, for his support during treatment. The video of Kambli's hospital dance quickly went viral on social media with fans showering him with wishes for a speedy recovery.

Recently, the doctor treating Kambli said he is facing memory loss too. 

"Yes, there is a little bit of impairment of memory function also. Definitely, there is some impairment. Neurodegenerative changes are there. So again, with the help of time and good rehabilitation, he will probably start functioning normally again. But not like 100 per cent, but definitely he will achieve 80-90 per cent of the memory, that previous memory," Dwivedi said.

"This happens. Earlier, he was ethanolic. Three-four months back he stopped alcohol and smoking. At that time, he was ethanolic. Sometimes, that can cause it (memory loss). At present there is complete abstinence of alcohol. There is now withdrawal symptom too."

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Bird Strikes Are a Common Problem for Flights

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Virat Kohli Turns 'Virtual Captain' At MCG vs Australia. Viral Video Proves

Virat Kohli was seen setting the field during Australia's second innings of the 4th Test in Melbourne on Sunday. The former India captain rolled back the glory days as he was actively involved in team discussions. Kohli, who stepped down as Test captain in 2022, was seen helping India skipper Rohit Sharma in making the field changes. He was also constantly on Rohit's ear as Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj stunned Australia's top-order. A video of the same went viral on social media.

Virat kohli has been leading this side today and even changing field without telling rohit sharma
- Adam Gilchrist #INDvsAUS #AUSvIND #BGT2024 #Cricket #ViratKohli
pic.twitter.com/LqhorRbjV8

— (@Stroke0Genius41) December 29, 2024

King Kohli Setting The Field Set .
Virat Kohli Leading The Team #ViratKohli https://t.co/eboOf5NYal pic.twitter.com/jabmi8vqj3

— Bhuuuva (@bhuuuva) December 29, 2024

In another video, Kohli was seen guiding Siraj on where to bowl to Steve Smith, whom the Indian pacer eventually dismissed few balls later.

Kone se... Kone se!!

LEADER KOHLI taking charge & guiding Siraj!!

The energy, the leadership, the passion-Leader Virat Kohli leading by example! His presence and mentorship on the field are priceless. What a sight to see! #LeadershipGoals #TeamIndia #Kohli #Siraj#INDvsAUS pic.twitter.com/GeadOtYQvy

— Kumar:/b (@pan_ghat) December 29, 2024

Siraj and Bumrah dismantled the Aussies top and middle order, but the hosts fought hard on the back of Marnus Labuschagne (70) and Pat Cummins (41).

Tailenders Nathan Lyon (41 not out) and Scott Boland (10 not out) extended Australia's lead to 333 at stumps on Sunday. The duo will resume on Day 5, having already put on a 55-run stand for the final wicket.

India will need the biggest successful fourth-innings run chase at the MCG on Monday if they are to win the Boxing Day Test after a thrilling Day 4 play.

The previous highest successful fourth innings score to win a Test at the MCG was England's 332/7 over Australia back in 1928.

The Border-Gavaskar Trophy series is currently locked at 1-1 as the two teams are fighting for the World Test Championship final spot scheduled to be played at Lord's in June 2025.

Australia are in a strong position to finish in top-two. They will also tour Sri Lanka next year for an additional two Tests, meaning they could theoretically draw 2-2 with India and stay in contention for a place in the final.

India, on the other hand, need to win the ongoing and final Test against Australia to ensure qualification. Any other outcome, however, would leave their fate dependent on other results to reach the finale at Lord's.

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"Golden Era For Indian Chess": Koneru Humpy After Scripting History

Grandmaster Koneru Humpy capped off a wonderful year for Indian chess, defeating Irene Sukandar of Indonesia to emerge the FIDE Women's World Rapid Chess champion in New York on Sunday. Humpy had won the event back in 2019 at Georgia and the Indian No. 1 is only the second player after China's Ju Wenjun to clinch the title more than once. Humpy's achievement laced a sensational year for the chess fraternity after D Gukesh defeated China's Ding Liren to emerge champion in the classical format World Championship recently in Singapore. In September, India had also won its first-ever gold medals in Open and Women's categories in the Chess Olympiad in Budapest.

The Indian, who started the tournament with a first-round defeat, was the lone winner in the 11th and final round, helping her to top the tables with 8.5 points, half a point clear of six others including compatriot D Harika.

"It was indeed a very happy moment for me because this is my second world title, and I think it's a golden era for Indian chess having two world champions in the same year. Definitely, this will, motivate lot of youngsters to become professionals," said Koneru while speaking to NDTV in an exclusive interview.

Meanwhile in the open section, young 18-year-old Russian Grandmaster Volodar Murzin won the gold medal ahead of a star studded field showing tremendous nerves.

The defining point for Murzin was his penultimate round game against R Praggnanandhaa wherein the latter had a winning position that slipped out through a one-move blunder.

Turning the tables quickly, Murzin shot into sole lead after the 12th and penultimate round and then defended a slightly worse endgame to seal the victory with 10 points in all.

It was an all-Russian show in the open section as Alexander Grischuk finished second while the third place went to former world championship challenger Ian Nepomniachtchi who both ended with 9.5 points.

Arjun Erigaisi scored 9 points and tied for the fourth spot with five others while Praggnanandhaa ended on 8.5 points. Among other Indians, Aravindh Chithambaram was the next best performer on 8 points.

(With agency inputs)

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"Needs To Practice...": Manjrekar's Blunt Take In Criticism Of Jadeja

Former India batter Sanjay Manjrekar has questioned veteran all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja's ability to play spinners after he got out to Australia's Nathan Lyon on Day 3 of the 4th Test on Saturday. Jadeja was trapped lbw by Lyon on 13, misreading a delivery which didn't turn at all. During a discussion on Star Sports, Manjrekar admitted that while Jadeja looked more than comfortable against the pacers, his struggles were evident once Lyon was brought into the attack by captain Pat Cummins.

"He played the fast bowlers a lot and played them very well. He didn't make even a slight mistake against the fast bowlers. However, once Nathan Lyon came, he was expecting off-spin, that the ball would turn. His bat came for the off-spin and the ball was not turning at all. So he played with that mindset," Manjrekar said.

Manjrekar suggested Jadeja needs to practice a little more against spinners.

"It seems like Jadeja needs to practice a little more against spin because he is looking absolutely comfortable against seam. He used to play very well against spin earlier but it happens that when you play overseas, you start playing fast bowling well and your focus is slightly removed from spin. If only fast bowlers had been there, Jadeja would have played a big knock," he added.

Manjrekar's sentiments were echoed by former India cricketer Deep Dasgupta, who explained that Jadeja failed to read Lyon throughout his innings.

"I felt he was playing for turn from the start but Nathan Lyon read the conditions very well, that there wasn't that much turn there. Nathan Lyon will get two things here - one is bounce and the second is drift. You should see from where he released the ball and where it finished. He released it from wide of the crease, the pitching was just outside the off-stump, and it pitched and came in. From Nathan Lyon's first ball, when Jadeja was defending, it was hitting the inside edge of the bat. It tells you that Jadeja's thinking was opposite to what Nathan Lyon was doing, and that is why Nathan Lyon trapped him," Dasgupta explained.

For the record, Lyon has dismissed seven times out of 16 innings in Test cricket.

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Guards in Fatal Prison Assault Were Accused of Beating Inmates Before

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1st Test: Mohammad Abbas, Khurram Shahzad Rock South Africa At Start Of Chase

Pakistan opening bowlers Mohammad Abbas and Khurram Shahzad struck three blows late on the third afternoon as South Africa set out in pursuit of 148 runs to win the first Test at SuperSport Park on Saturday. South Africa were reeling at 27 for three at the close, 121 runs short of a victory which would clinch them a place in the World Test championship final in England next June. Abbas took two wickets for three runs in four immaculate overs of swing bowling, dismissing Tony de Zorzi and Tristan Stubbs, while Shahzad trapped Ryan Rickelton.

Aiden Markram, South Africa's top scorer in the first innings, was unbeaten on 22 going into what could be a nervy fourth day for the hosts.

All three wickets were leg before wicket decisions - and all three were reviewed.

De Zorzi batted outside his crease in an attempt to counter the swing which undid him in the first innings - but Abbas beat his inside edge and he was given out.

He reviewed umpire Alex Wharf's decision but replays showed the impact was "umpire's call", with the ball going on to hit the stumps, and he had to go for two runs.

Rickelton failed to score before he was trapped by Shahzad and Stubbs made one before falling to Abbas - with Pakistan successfully reviewing on both occasions after the batsmen were initially given not out.

It was a dramatic end to a day on which the start was delayed by three hours because of rain.

South Africa seemed well on target for victory when Pakistan were bowled out for 237, with left-arm fast bowler Marco Jansen taking six for 52.

Saud Shakeel made 84 for Pakistan.

Resuming at 88 for three, Babar Azam and the left-handed Shakeel batted confidently, adding another 65 runs in 14.5 overs.

Babar made 50, his first half-century in 19 Test innings, before Jansen had a burst of three wickets in 14 balls, starting when Babar slapped a short ball from Jansen to deep point.

Shakeel was ninth man out when he missed a full toss from Jansen after hitting 10 fours and a six in a 113-ball innings.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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Traveling This Weekend? Where Weather May Complicate Your Plans

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"We Played Like Gentlemen...": 1983 WC-Winning Star On Kohli-Konstas Row

There has been a lot of debate regarding the altercation between Virat Kohli and Sam Konstas that took place on Day 1 of the fourth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). The 1983 World Cup-winning wicket-keeper Syed Kirmani has given his take on the latest controversy, claiming the current crop of cricketers have a ‘cannot-take-it-lying-down' attitude. The altercation occurred during a gripping session of play when Konstas was in the midst of an impressive innings and Kohli bumped into the 19-year-old in between overs. “We played like gentlemen. Having said that, it's not that our cricketers are not playing like gentlemen. It is a matter of retaliation. Now, the attitude, and the application is changed. Now, we cannot take it lying down. We have to retaliate,” Kirmani told IANS.

Kohli was charged under Article 2.12 of the ICC Code of Conduct, which pertains to "inappropriate physical contact with a Player, Player Support Personnel, Umpire, Match Referee or any other person (including a spectator during an International Match).” The Indian batter accepted the charges, negating the need for a formal hearing.

“This is the new attitude of the players of the current era of cricketers. In our time, there was sledging. We never retaliated. We just turned around and showed our backs. You see, the retaliation, the sledging and all that, you know, is just to distract the concentration of the players, particularly when you are batting, when a great batsman has come in when he is playing a great knock,” he added.

The 1983 World Cup winner has released an autobiography ‘Stumped', giving insider details on what was one of the greatest achievements in world cricket. The 74-year-old Kirmani claims that India's maiden World Cup triumph has fuelled the current generation's dreams and laid the foundation for the BCCI to become one of the strongest and wealthiest boards in the world.

“If I say that winning the World Cup was most unexpected, we did not expect to make it to qualify for the knockout stages. We made the impossible possible. The foundation we built in 1983, the current era of cricketers and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), has reaped from it," added Kirmani.

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Chelsea Stunned By Fulham In Blow To Premier League Title Hopes

Fulham scored twice in the final 10 minutes to end Chelsea's 12-game unbeaten run in all competitions with a stunning 2-1 Premier League win at Stamford Bridge. Substitutes Harry Wilson and Rodrigo Muniz shocked the Blues to secure Fulham's first away win at their west London rivals since 1979. Defeat leaves second-placed Chelsea still four points adrift of leaders Liverpool, who have two games in hand over their nearest challengers, starting with the visit of Leicester later on Thursday. Victory lifts Fulham up to eighth, level on points with champions Manchester City, and within just one point of fifth-placed Newcastle to further their European ambitions for next season.

"It is a privilege to give our fans this happiness," said Fulham boss Marco Silva.

"Second half the reaction was top. It is not a coincidence that we are the team in the Premier League that has got the most goals from players off the bench."

Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca has insisted in recent weeks that his young side are not yet cut out for a title challenge despite their fine form.

And the home side proved their manager's point after failing to build on a dream start given to them by the class of Cole Palmer.

There did not look to be much on when Levi Colwill played the ball into Palmer's feet about 40 yards out.

But the England star burst into life, turning away from Andreas Pereira and gliding past Sasa Lukic towards the edge of the box.

Palmer then applied the finish, nonchalantly passing the ball through the legs of defender Issa Diop and into the corner of Bernd Leno's goal.

It was Palmer's 26th league strike of 2024, beating the Chelsea record for Premier League goals scored in a calendar year set by Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink in 2001.

"We were winning for most of the game, but to lose at the end is difficult," said Palmer.

"Second half we lost a bit of control. They're a good transition team and like to run direct, we got caught up in their game and paid the price."

Palmer almost bagged a second moments after opening the scoring, with a nutmeg on the edge of the box followed by a low drive which was well kept out by Leno.

Fulham's German goalkeeper also made important saves to prevent Marc Cucurella and Enzo Fernandez adding to Chelsea's lead either side of half-time.

Silva's men have now taken points from Liverpool, Arsenal and Chelsea this month and the Portuguese's changes turned the tide in the visitors' favour.

Eight minutes from time another substitute Tom Cairney's cross was headed across goal by Timothy Castagne and Wilson glanced in at the far post.

Both sides had chances to win it in a wild finale, but it was Fulham who took theirs in the 95th minute to claim a famous victory.

Lukic surged forward from midfield and squared for Muniz to coolly slot into the bottom corner in front of the delighted travelling support.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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Donald Bitzer, Unsung Pioneer of Interactive Computing, Dies at 90

By Michael S. Rosenwald from NYT Technology https://ift.tt/fpbmjdJ

In New Mexico, a Democratic Governor Wants to Get Tough on Crime

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IND vs AUS 4th Test LIVE Streaming, BGT 2024/25: When And Where To Watch

India vs Australia 4th Test LIVE Streaming and Live Telecast: The fourth chapter of the riveting Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024/25 starts with the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne. With the series tied at 1-1, and a place in the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025 final at stake, the game is expected to be a hard-fought one. India will be hoping that their top order can fare better and take early control of the game, while Australia will be aiming to continue their good momentum from the second and third Tests. A win for either side in this Test match would ensure that they cannot lose the series anymore.

Here are the details for the India vs Australia 4th Test, LIVE Streaming and LIVE Telecast of Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024/25: Check Where and How to Watch

When will the India vs Australia 4th Test, Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024/25 take place?

The India vs Australia 4th Test, Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024/25 will take place on Boxing Day, December 26 (IST).

Where will the India vs Australia 4th Test, Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024/25 be held?

The India vs Australia 4th Test, Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024/25 will be held at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Melbourne.

What time will the India vs Australia 4th Test, Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024/25 start?

The India vs Australia 4th Test, Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024/25 will start at 5:00 AM IST.

Which TV channels will show the live telecast of the India vs Australia 4th Test, Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024/25?

The India vs Australia 4th Test, Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024/25 will be televised live on the Star Sports network.

Where to follow the live streaming of the India vs Australia 4th Test, Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024/25?

The India vs Australia 4th Test, Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024/25 will live streamed on the Disney+ Hotstar app and website.

(All details are as per information provided by the broadcaster)

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Regrets? Biden May Have a Few.

By Katie Rogers from NYT U.S. https://ift.tt/apCt23T

"May You Have Wonderful Life": Arshad's Special Wish On Neeraj's Birthday

Paris Olympics gold medallist Arshad Nadeem took to social media to wish India's ace javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra on his birthday on Thursday. "Happy Birthday to my friend and fellow athlete @Neeraj_chopra1. Wishing you a year filled with happiness, success, better health, and joy. May you have a wonderful life ahead!" Arshad Nadeem wrote on X.

Happy Birthday to my friend and fellow athlete @Neeraj_chopra1 Wishing you a year filled with happiness, success, better health and joy. May you have a wonderful life ahead!

— Arshad Nadeem (@ArshadOlympian1) December 24, 2024

Arshad bagged the historic gold for Pakistan with a throw of 92.97m, setting a new Olympic record and surpassing Denmark's Andreas Thorkildsen's mark from Beijing 2008. Grenada's Anderson Peters secured bronze with a throw of 88.54m.

Tokyo medallist Neeraj fell short of retaining his title, finishing with a best throw of 89.45m in second place. Despite a strong performance on his second attempt, he struggled with four consecutive foul throws and settled for silver.

Neeraj has redefined the landscape of athletics in India and on the global stage. He made history in Tokyo by becoming the first Indian to win an Olympic gold medal. He followed it up with a silver in Paris 2024, with a throw of 89.45m.
He missed out on defending his crown after his arch-rival Arshad Nadeem produced an Olympic record effort by sending his javelin to a distance of 92.97m.

Recently, Neeraj announced the start of an exciting new chapter in his career, partnering with javelin legend Jan Zelezny, who has come on board as his new coach. Zelezny, a three-time Olympic and World champion and the current world record holder, has long been an idol to Chopra.

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Smriti Mandhana Closes In On Top Spot In ODIs And T20Is

Swashbuckling Indian batter Smriti Mandhana closed in on the top spot while occupying the second slot in both the ICC T20I and ODI batting rankings released on Tuesday. While Mandhana moved a spot in the T20I rankings, the Indian vice-captain retained her second place in the ODI charts, following impressive performances against the West Indies in both the formats. The left-hander's ODI rating of 739 is only bettered by Laura Wolvaardt's 773, and her T20I rating of 753 is narrowly shaved by Beth Mooney's 757. Mandhana made 62 (41b) and 77 (47b) in the two T20Is for the week to move up to No.2, completing a trifecta of half-centuries against Hayley Matthews' team in as many matches.

The 28-year-old went on to make 91 (102) in the opening ODI in Vadodara, and now boasts scores of 50 plus in her last five visits to the crease in international action.

On the opposing side, Matthews too showed her class with bat in hand, with scores of 85 not (47) and 22 (17) in the two T20Is across the week, leading to a two-spot jump to equal-third on the Rankings, level with Tahlia McGrath with a rating of 748.

The bottom half of the ODI batting top-ten meanwhile saw multiple shuffles, as ICC Women's Championship action played out across the world.

Harmanpreet Kaur's score of 34 at Vadodara helped her jump three spots and is back in the top 10.

Australian Alyssa Healy's scores of 39 and 34 against New Zealand saw the opener up two spots to the eighth place with a rating of 640.

Compatriot Annabel Sutherland enjoyed arguably the most noteworthy jump of the week, with scores of 105 not out and 42 leading to an 11-spot climb to 18th (563 rating points).

The right-arm quick went on to claim 3/39 in the third ODI to see her move up two spots into 7th on the All-Rounder rankings (301), moving past Sophie Devine and Chamari Athapaththu.

While there was little change in top ten bowling rankings across ODI and T20I cricket, emerging talents across series in India and New Zealand did make significant strides.

India pacer Renuka Singh's 5/29 in Vadodara ODI led to a six-spot jump to 20th (497) in the bowlers' rankings.

As Australia powered to a third consecutive ICC Women's Championship victory, their bowling charge came through Alana King (up two spots to 12th), and Kim Garth (up four spots to 13th), with Sutherland's effort also leading to a three-spot jump to 17th on the bowling rankings.

New Zealand's Melie Kerr moved to 11th (572 points) on the other side.

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Ex-Pakistan Star Backs India To Prevail Over 'Worried' Australia In Melbourne

Former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali has backed the Indian team to have the "best chance" of winning in Melbourne against a 'worried' Australian side in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT). The most anticipated Test series of 2024 is evenly poised at 1-1, with India dominating Australia in Perth and the Baggy Greens bouncing back in Adelaide. The Brisbane Test was covered by dark clouds and eventually washed out by rain. With two Tests remaining and a spot in the World Test Championship final at stake, Basit expects India to claim victory in the Melbourne Test, which begins on Thursday.

"India will have the best chance to win in Melbourne. There can be two spinners in Melbourne and Sydney. Australia is concerned about the possibility of missing out on the WTC final if they lose in Melbourne. Australia's two matches against Sri Lanka won't be easy. If the batters make the same mistakes as in Brisbane and Adelaide, then India will be in trouble," Basit said on his YouTube channel.

Ahead of the fourth match of the five-match series, India bolstered its squad by including uncapped Tanush Kotian to fill the gap left after Ravichandran Ashwin's retirement.

India captain Rohit Sharma explained the rationale behind Kotian's inclusion in the squad for the remaining two Tests during a press conference.

"Yeah, Tanush was here a month ago (for the Australia A series). And Kuldeep (Yadav), I don't think, has a visa (laughs). We wanted somebody who could get here as quickly as possible. Tanush was the one who was ready and he played here," the skipper said.

"Not that Tanush is not good enough. He has shown in the last two years what he has done in domestic cricket. We really just wanted a backup in case, you know, we need two spinners playing here or in Sydney, you need a backup option," he added.

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Virat, Smith Receives Big Praise From Shastri: "They'll Be Dangerous..."

Former Indian cricketer and head coach Ravi Shastri shared his thoughts on the performances of cricket's legendary "Fab Four"—Virat Kohli, Steve Smith, Joe Root, and Kane Williamson. Shastri delved into the fluctuating fortunes of these players in the longest format of the game and emphasised the resilience and hunger that still make Kohli and Smith dangerous opponents. While Root and Williamson have enjoyed a phenomenal 2024, scoring six and four Test centuries respectively, Kohli and Smith have managed only one each—both coming during the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Root's prolific run in particular has solidified his place as one of the most consistent batters in modern cricket, while Williamson continues to exude elegance and composure at the crease.

"I think they (Kohli and Smith) will have slipped down the ranks on current form because you know you've got the likes of Root taking off, there's Williamson doing well, Harry Brook has come onto the scene, you know there are a lot of other young players pushing but these are class players," Shastri told The ICC Review.

"In a situation like this, you know they'll be dangerous because they'll be hungry," he added.

On the other hand, Kohli and Smith have faced challenges this year, finding themselves outscored by emerging talents like Harry Brook. However, both experienced campaigners have shown flashes of brilliance, reminding the cricketing world why they remain among the best.

Shastri highlighted Smith's resilience, referring to his determined innings at the Gabba against India, where the Australian maestro scored his 33rd Test century.

"What's needed you saw from Smith. It might have been a struggle early on but he was prepared to play the waiting game and be disciplined,” Shastri noted.

Shastri remains confident that Kohli, too, has the ability to regain his peak form. According to Shastri, Kohli's form isn't the issue; instead, it's about surviving the critical early phase of his innings.

"I think the same with Virat,” Shastri added. “If Virat gets over that first 30, 40 minutes, with serious application and discipline, I don't think he's (out of form), none of these guys are out of form.”

For Shastri, what separates great players from the rest is their hunger to succeed even during lean patches. He believes both Kohli and Smith possess the mental toughness to weather tough spells and return to dominating the game.

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Rudrankksh Shatters World Record In Junior Men's Shooting Event

Shahu Tushar Mane clinched the gold medal in the men's 10m Air Rifle event, while Rudrankksh Balasaheb Patil set a new world record en route to winning the junior title at the National Shooting Championship for Rifle events here on Monday. Mane of Railways clinched his first senior national title, winning the 24-shot final by the thinnest of margins. Also hogging the limelight was former world champion Rudrankksh of Maharashtra, who shot a sizzling 254.9 to win the junior final, surpassing the existing senior finals world record held by Olympic Champion Sheng Lihao of China, by a margin of 0.4.

It was Shahu, who set the ball rolling at the MP State Academy Shooting range, shooting nothing below 10.1 in the final.

The 22-year-old from Kolhapur, who began shooting in 2015 and has won an ISSF World Cup gold in the air rifle mixed team as well as an individual silver in the Youth Olympics, managed to hold off a late surge by Dhanush Srikanth.

The Telangana shooter was left to rue the 9.8 he logged for his fifth shot, as he finished with 252.2, just 0.1 behind the winner.

Both the gold and silver medallists shot identical 10.6 and 10.5 for their final two shots as excitement reached fever pitch in the stands.

Rajasthan's Yash Vardhan won bronze, finishing ahead of Rudrankksh.

Rudrankksh sizzles in junior men's final

Former world champion Rudrankksh Patil managed to ward off the disappointment of the senior final as he landed the junior men's title with a virtuoso performance.

His second shot was a 10.0, but besides that there was nothing under 10.3 as he left silver winner Abishek Sekhar of Karnataka a big 3.5 points behind.

Haryana's Himanshu won bronze.

Himanshu wins gold in youth category

Haryana's Himanshu featured in all three men's individual finals on the day, finally winning gold in the men's 10m Air Rifle Youth competition with a score of 253.0 for his second medal of the day.

Madhya Pradesh's Yash Pandey was 2.2 shots behind in second while West Bengal's Abhiav Shaw won bronze.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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The Trumpian Attitude at the Heart of the Gaetz Report

By David Firestone from NYT Opinion https://ift.tt/JxNt2dm

En las antiguas murallas de Aviñón, mensajes actuales denuncian la ‘cultura de la violación’

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Trump Picks a Former Treasury Official as His Top Economist

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Manchester United Embarrassed By Bournemouth, Chelsea Held At Everton

Manchester United crashed to a humiliating 3-0 home defeat to Bournemouth, while Chelsea missed the chance to go top of the Premier League after a 0-0 draw at Everton on Sunday. United boss Ruben Amorim, who once again left Marcus Rashford out of his squad, is set for a miserable Christmas following the worst result of his brief reign. Languishing in 13th place, United have suffered four defeats in nine matches in all competitions since Amorim arrived from Sporting Lisbon in November to replace the sacked Erik ten Hag.

United's second successive loss after their League Cup exit at Tottenham on Thursday underlined Amorim's belief that their road back to the top will be long and arduous.

United, who have conceded first in their last six games, were booed off at half-time, while the final whistle was greeted by more jeers from the few fans who stayed until the bitter end.

While it is far too early to pass judge on Amorim, the Portuguese coach cannot afford many more results like this if he is to keep the players and fans on his side.

Amorim's decision to play without Rashford for the third consecutive game will face fresh scrutiny after United's wretched performance.

Amorim surprisingly omitted the 27-year-old England forward from the squad for United's win at Manchester City last weekend, prompting Rashford to hint he was willing to leave the club for a "new challenge".

Rashford was at Old Trafford wearing a United tracksuit amid his extended exile as Amorim made six changes from the line-up beaten 4-3 by Tottenham in the League Cup quarter-finals.

Again, United were exposed at set-pieces in the 29th minute when Bournemouth's teenage defender Dean Huijsen punished poor marking at a free-kick to glance a header past Andre Onana.

There was even worse to come for Amorim in the second half as Justin Kluivert doubled fifth-placed Bournemouth's advantage with a 61st minute penalty following Noussair Mazraoui's foul on the forward.

Antoine Semenyo compounded United's misery two minutes later with a cool finish from Dango Ouattara's pass.

With leaders Liverpool playing at Tottenham in Sunday's late game, second-placed Chelsea would have gone top, for at least a few hours, if they had won at Everton.

But Enzo Maresca's side had to settle for a goalless stalemate that ended their five-match winning run in the league.

Chelsea sit one point behind Liverpool who have two games in hand on the Blues, starting with their trip to Tottenham.

It was an encouraging start to a new era for Everton -- four points clear of the relegation zone -- under new owners the Friedkin Group, whose purchase brought an end to Farhad Moshiri's tumultuous tenure.

Everton's new executive chairman Marc Watts was in attendance at Goodison Park to see Chelsea come closest to winning when Nicolas Jackson's first-half header hit the post.

Wolves boss Vitor Pereira enjoyed a dream debut as his side won 3-0 at relegation rivals Leicester.

Replacing the sacked Gary O'Neil, former Porto boss Pereira left his role at Saudi Pro League side Al-Shabab to fulfil his dream of managing in England.

Goncalo Guedes started the Pereira era with a flourish as he met Nelson Semedo's cross with an agile finish in the 19th minute.

As if that welcome gift from his fellow Portuguese wasn't enough, Pereira received another present from a compatriot in the 36th minute when Rodrigo Gomes slid in to notch his first goal for Wolves.

Matheus Cunha's 44th minute strike from Guedes' pass ensured third-bottom Wolves would move within two points of fourth-bottom Leicester.

Bottom-of-the-table Southampton held on for a 0-0 draw at Fulham as new manager Ivan Juric watched from the stands.

Juric, axed by Roma in November after just 12 games, was not in charge on Sunday as he awaited a work permit to replace Russell Martin.

Southampton are eight points adrift of safety with only one win from 17 league games.

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Ex-CSK Star, Who Smashed 201 Off 97 Balls, Shares Dhoni's Priceless Advice

Sameer Rizvi saw a dream come true in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season when he was bought by Chennai Super Kings (CSK), allowing him to rub shoulders with childhood hero Mahendra Singh Dhoni. Despite an underwhelming IPL 2024, Rizvi has continued to impress in domestic cricket, recently smashing 201 off just 97 deliveries in the Men's U23 State A Trophy for Uttar Pradesh against Tripura. Speaking after the game, Rizvi revealed that he took as much advice as possible from MS Dhoni during his CSK stint, and shared the valuable insight given to him by the legendary Indian captain.

"I have spent some good time with Mahi sir (MS Dhoni). It was a dream to share the dressing room with my childhood hero and idol, and I'm grateful to God for making it come true. I learned a lot from him. I wanted to make full use of the opportunity, and whenever I got the chance, I walked up to him and asked him a lot of things," Rizvi said, in an interview with TimesofIndia.com.

Record Alert

Uttar Pradesh captain Sameer Rizvi smashed the fastest double ton in the history of Men's U23 State A Trophy, reaching the milestone in just 97 balls

He scored 201*(97) vs Tripura in Vadodara, hitting 13 fours & 20 sixes #U23StateATrophy | @IDFCFIRSTBank pic.twitter.com/Ta3ydwxSRX

— BCCI Domestic (@BCCIdomestic) December 21, 2024

Rizvi stated that Dhoni's advice has been precious especially when it comes to aiding his powerhitting.

"I used to stand in a corner and watch him closely. He is so calm, and doesn't care who the bowler is. After the nets, I used to chat with him. He taught me about the mindset and how to take my game forward," Rizvi further added.

Sharing more on Dhoni's advice, Rizvi said," Mahi sir said, 'Just keep calm in every situation. Whether you need six runs off one ball or one run off six balls, just keep calm. Never think of defeats. If you think about them, you will lose focus immediately."

Rizvi finished as the second-highest run-scorer of the UPT20 league 2024, and has smashed three centuries in the Men's U23 State A Trophy. His blazing form with the bat saw him picked up in the IPL 2025 mega auction by Delhi Capitals (DC).

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"Ben Chilwell Likely To Be First To Ask To Leave Chelsea": Enzo Maresca

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca says Ben Chilwell and Carney Chukwuemeka are likely to be the first players who will want to leave the club due to a lack of game time as the January transfer window looms. Neither player has featured in the Premier League this season and their absence from Maresca's second-string selections in the Conference League and League Cup has long pointed towards a Stamford Bridge exit. England international Chilwell was told in August he was not in the head coach's plans but a comeback looked possible when the 27-year-old played the second half of September's League Cup win over Barrow.

That return has not materialised, while 21-year-old Chukwuemeka has been largely been limited to substitute appearances.

"There are players that unfortunately didn't play a lot with us in all the competitions, like Chilwell, like Carney," said Maresca ahead of Sunday's trip to Everton.

"Probably they're the first that will want to leave because they work every day because they want to play. If they don't play probably they are thinking to leave.

"Each player has a different situation so we'll see if anyone knocks on the door and says 'I want to leave'. We'll try to find a solution."

Maresca has had the luxury of a run of fixtures against limited opposition in Europe, during which he has given significant game time to players who have struggled to get into his Premier League line-ups.

They finished top of the Conference League table, ensuring direct passage to the last 16, meaning a hiatus from European duty until March.

A number of senior internationals have relied on those games for minutes, most notably Christopher Nkunku and Joao Felix, though teenage striker Marc Guiu, who is top scorer in the Conference League, have also earned valuable experience in the competition.

"I'm not worried about the next three months, if the players are happy or not," said Maresca. "We have many games, if they do the right things, if they work properly for sure they all are going to have a chance to play.

Chelsea, second in the Premier League, would leapfrog leaders Liverpool, at least briefly, if they beat Everton on Sunday, with Arne Slot's men kicking off later.

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Sergio Perez Parts Ways With Red Bull After Horror Show In 2024 F1 Season

Red Bull announced Wednesday that Mexican driver Sergio Perez has departed the Formula One team after four seasons. Perez, 34, joined Red Bull in 2021 and helped the team earn two constructors' titles and completed a drivers' standing one-two with four-time world champion team-mate Max Verstappen in 2023. "I would like to thank Checo (Perez) for all he has done for Oracle Red Bull Racing over the past four seasons," Red Bull team principal Christian Horner said in a statement. "From the moment he joined in 2021 he proved himself to be an extraordinary team player, helping us to two Constructors' titles and to our first 1-2 finish in the Drivers' championship.

"While Checo will not race for the team next season, he will always be an extremely popular team member and a treasured part of our history. Thank you, Checo."

Perez won five Grands Prix in Red Bull colours, including a victory at the Monaco GP and a double in Azerbaijan.

However, his form dipped in the 2024 season leading to rumours about his future in the team.

He came eighth in the drivers' standings as Red Bull surrendered their team title to McLaren with a third-placed finish.

"I'm incredibly grateful for the past four years with Oracle Red Bull Racing and for the opportunity to race with such an amazing team," Perez said.

"Driving for Red Bull has been an unforgettable experience and I'll always cherish the successes we achieved together.

"A big thank you to every person in the team... I wish you all the best for the future.

"It has also been an honour to race alongside Max as a teammate all these years and to share in our success."

Red Bull added in their statement that "announcements regarding the team's full 2025 line-up will be made in due course".

New Zealander Liam Lawson is considered the favourite to replace Perez.

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West Indies Crush India In 2nd T20I, Chase Down Target In Only 15.4 Overs

West Indies beat India by nine wickets in the second women's T20 International to level the three-match series 1-1 here on Tuesday. Captain Hayley Matthews led from the front with 85 not out off 47 balls as the West Indies chased down the target of 160 with 26 balls to spare. Mathews' opening partner Qiana Joseph chipped in 38 with while one-down Shemaine Campbelle made 29 not out as the visitors reached 160 for 1 in 15.4 overs.

Saima Thakor took the lone West Indies wicket. Earlier, invited to bat India posted 159 for 9 in their allotted 20 overs with opening batter and stand-in captain Smriti Mandhana top-scoring with a 41-ball 62. Richa Ghosh made 32 off 17 balls.

For West Indies, captain Matthews (2/36), Afy Fletcher (2/28), Deandra Dottin (2/14) and Chinelle Henry (2/37) took two wickets apiece.

Regular captain Harmanpreet Kaur was rested as she had sustained a niggle while batting in the first match which India had won by 49 runs on Sunday. Raghvi Bist made her India debut, coming in place of Kaur.

Brief Scores:

India: 159 for 9 in 20 overs (Smriti Mandhana 62, Richa Ghosh 32; Hayley Matthews 2/36, Afy Fletcher 2/28, Deandra Dottin 2/14, Chinelle Henry 2/37).

West Indies: 160 for 1 in 15.4 overs (Hayley Matthews 85 not out; Salima Thakor 1/28)

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Ding, Accused Of Deliberately Losing To Gukesh, Opens Up On Loss At Worlds

Chinese Grandmaster Ding Liren has opened up on his loss to India's D Gukesh at the World Chess Championship 2024 in Singapore last week. Ding, who was the defending champion, made a costly error in the decisive Game 14, allowing Gukesh to become the youngest ever world champion. Following his defeat to Gukesh, Ding was accused of deliberately losing the match by Russian Chess Federation chief Andrei Filatov. Russian news agency TASS quoted Filatov asking the International Chess Federation (FIDE) to open a probe and investigate the result.

Former world champions Magnus Carlsen and Vladimir Kramnik had also questioned the quality of chess on display during the whole course of the 14-game tie Ding and Gukesh.

Amid criticism, Ding has defended himself and Gukesh, insisting that the quality of the games was not so low.

"Yes, I tried my best in the match and you could see my usage of time. I used a large amount of time in the opening phase when I was not familiar with the position. I tried to figure out what is going on. Or what's the idea behind the novelty. Or how to play my pieces. And sometimes i did a good job and sometimes I didn't find a clear way to develop," Ding told ChessBase India.

"But in every game, his (Gukesh) time would eventually catch up my time after some long thought by him. So I can say that I played some high quality moves when I spent a lot of time. The quality of the game were not so low. Even when I was low on time, I also played some good moves with less time," he added.

Meanwhile, Gukesh secured the requisite 7.5 points as against 6.5 of his Chinese rival after winning the 14th and last classical time control game of the match that seemed headed for a draw for most part. As winner, he will walk away with a whopping USD 1.3 million (approx Rs 11.03 crore) from the 2.5 million prize purse.

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"Rightly Went Unsold": Prithvi Once Again Under Fire After Disappointing Show

Prithvi Shaw once again came under a lot of fire after he failed to score big for Mumbai in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy final against Madhya Pradesh on Sunday. While Mumbai ended up clinching the trophy quite easily, Prithvi was dismissed for 10 off 6 deliveries. It has been a tough year for Prithvi after he went unsold in the IPL 2025 auction and he finished the tournament without a single 50+ score. Prithvi started his innings well but was dismissed early by Tripuresh Singh. Users on social media were not happy with his failure and they were quick to express their disappointment.

Prithvi Shaw rightly went unsold at the auction. No fitness. No fielding. No discipline. Cameos at best with the bat.

— Vipul Ghatol ?? (@Vipul_Espeaks) December 15, 2024

Mumbai leaned on their collective batting strength to subdue a spirited Madhya Pradesh by five wickets to clinch the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy on Sunday. Mumbai were stretched on more than one occasion during the chase of 175, a target MP built around skipper Rajat Patidar's fluent unbeaten 81, on a slightly tacky pitch, but eventually they reached 180 for five in 17.5 overs.

Prithvi Shaw isn't even trying to prove the owners of IPL teams wrongpic.twitter.com/zBftxSHjFg

— Dinda Academy (@academy_dinda) December 15, 2024

This was Mumbai's second SMAT title after winning it for the first time in 2022, while MP's wait for a maiden trophy prolonged to another season.

After a brief period of lull, Suryakumar Yadav (48, 35b, 4x4, 3x6) reactivated his run-making ways and added 52 runs for the third wicket with Ajinkya Rahane (37, 30b, 4x4).

It helped Mumbai to recover from the early dismissals of Prithvi Shaw and skipper Shreyas Iyer, both of them falling to rather causal shots.

At 129 for five in 14.4 overs, Mumbai needed 46 runs but any worries were soon eased by the big-hitting Suryansh Shedge (36 not out, 15b, 3x4, 3x6) and Atharva Ankolekar (16 not out, 6b, 2x6) who knocked off the remaining runs without much fuss in a little over three overs.

Earlier, Patidar shone brightly while hammering his fifth fifty of this tournament.

The right-hander, who was retained by the Royal Challengers Bengaluru, entertained an over 15,000-crowd, who backed him and MP to the hilt, with twinkling shot-making.

In fact, Patidar singlehandedly held the MP innings together as the next highest was a 23 by Shubhranshu Senapati.

(With PTI inputs)

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Late Alberto Strike Helps Mohun Bagan Super Giant Beat Kerala Blasters 3-2

Mohun Bagan Super Giant beat Kerala Blasters 3-2 to register their fifth consecutive home win and cement their top spot in the Indian Super League (ISL) points table here on Saturday. Despite holding 56.5 percent of the possession, the Mariners required two late goals to secure all three points from this fixture. The Mariners now have 26 points from 11 matches with the help of eight victories and two draws to be at the top of table. Kerala Blasters FC opened the game on an assertive note, with their frontline duo of Noah Sadaoui and Jesus Jimenez teasing the Mohun Bagan Super Giant defence within the first five minutes.

Whilst Noah tried to strike home from outside of the box in the second minute, Jimenez made an attempt at goal from inside the box with his left foot, which was saved by Vishal Kaith in the fourth minute.

That didn't deter Kerala Blasters from discovering options upfront, as their entire midfield worked cohesively to knock doors at the Mariners' backline. Pritam Kotal sprinted ahead with quick pace and curled in a cross for Danish Farooq inside the box, but the latter's shot landed off target past the right post.

Subhasish Bose joined in the attacking moves for the hosts, teaming up with Liston Colaco in the 18th minute, who laid up an accurate pass for the defender on the left side of the 18-yard box. Bose had a good opportunity to score in his 100th ISL appearance for the Mariners, but his shot lacked the pace to find its way past Sachin Suresh.

The home side's moment of reckoning came in the 33rd minute though, as Asish Rai unleashed a powerful shot from distance that was stopped by Sachin, but the rebound fell in Jamie Maclaren's path, who comfortably slotted it into the bottom left corner to help them secure the first goal of the match.

Increasingly, Kerala Blasters were finding it difficult to construct well-coordinated attacking moves. Jimenez took matters in his own hands in the 51st minute, and Adrian Luna simultaneously helped him by pressing high on the Mohun Bagan Super Giant defence, helping the visitors recover possession.

Jimenez didn't take too much time on the ball, hammering it into the bottom left corner from the outside of the 18-yard box upon taking a quick, deft touch and equalising the scores.

Sadaoui sprung into action following this move, hoping to get another goal in the favour of the Kochi-based team by riding the momentum in their favour.

In the following 15-odd minutes, he hit the target multiple times, most notably in the 67th minute from outside of the box. Despite the distance, his shot was well directed into the bottom right corner, but kept at bay by Kaith.

Kerala Blasters were successful in their effort of breaching past the Mariners' defence in the 77th minute. They pushed up numbers during a set piece and Milos Drincic was placed perfectly to drill the ball into the high centre of the goal in a crowded Mohun Bagan Super Giant box to get the visitors a late advantage.

That opened the floodgates for an onslaught from the Mariners, as Jason Cummings came off the bench in the 80th minute. His partnership with Dimitrios Petratos has been lethal upfront and Saturday was no different, with the latter squaring up a pass for Cummings deep inside the box that was netted into the bottom left corner by the striker to bring the scores back to level terms in the 86th minute.

The Mariners kept pushing forward, earning free-kicks and corners alike. In the added time of the second half, Kerala Blasters defence was unable to clear their lines after a corner and Alberto Rodriguez, placed outside the 18-yard area, trusted his instincts to launch a shot into the bottom left corner to bag their third goal of the night, and notch all three points for the home side.

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"Pata Nahi Kaunsi Safalta...": Gill's Reply To Cummins' 'Short-Ball' Remark

Australia captain Pat Cummins insisted that he and his fellow pacers will target the Indian batters with short balls, if needed, during the upcoming third Test in Gabba, starting Saturday. Team India collapsed to a 10-wicket loss in the pink-ball Test in Adelaide last week. However, star batter Shubman Gill has brushed off all concerns that India may have after Cummins' recent remarks. Gill also pointed out how none of the Indian batters, barring KL Rahul, got out to short ball in Adelaide.

"Potentially. (Short-pitched bowling) worked out in the Adelaide Test so it's always in the back of your mind as a plan B when things get uncomfortable. It worked in Adelaide so I am sure we will give it a shot at some point this Test. Or the tailenders, it looked like a wicket was very likely," said Cummins.

"As far as I know just one batter apart from the tail-enders have fallen to short balls in this series. Toh mujhe pata nahi kaunsi safalta ki wo baat kar rahe hai (I don't know what success he is talking about)," Gill said at the press conference, responding to Cummins' remark.

Gill, however, revealed the challenges the team is facing while playing Tests on Australian soil.

"The intensity at which the games are played here, especially the Test matches is one of the difficulties as maintaining the same intensity for five days is what makes the Australian tour so difficult and more than anything its the mental intensity and the mental fitness which is required here in Australia," he added.

The 25-year-old suggested the conditions in Brisbane are very challenging but after 30 to 35 overs it is easy to bat before the new ball comes.

"The conditions at the Brisbane are challenging but there is a period from 30 to 35 overs till the second new ball arrives, it easier to bat. The pitches in Australia are fast and the history of Australia is that they have played with good fast bowlers because the wicket has helped them as it is hard and fast. You have to be there and be ready to play with the same mental fitness and intensity at the ground," he explained.

(With ANI Inputs)

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Lahore High Court Postpones Alleged Sexual Harassment Case Against Babar

The Lahore High Court on Thursday adjourned the hearing of the alleged rape case against former Pakistan captain Babar Azam till December 16. The petitioner Hamiza Mukhtar told the court that Babar and she had been in a relationship for a while, and he assaulted her after promising marriage. As Babar's senior lawyer, Barrister Haris Azmat did not appear in the court, his junior lawyer requested to adjourn the case and the court granted the request.

The petitioner reiterated her claims before the court. “Babar Azam sexually exploited me, making me pregnant. He later persuaded me to abort the child, which she did,” she said, adding that the cricketer failed to honour his promise once he climbed the ranks.

She has also attached medical documents to the petition to support her claims.

She also alleged that police refused to file an FIR against Babar after she complained of “blackmail and fornication.” This has been pending since 2021.

Babar is currently in South Africa to play three T20Is, as many ODIs and two Tests.

South Africa had beaten Pakistan by 11 runs in the first T20I at Durban in which Babar got out for a four-ball zero. 

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2034 FIFA World Cup In Saudi Arabia Puts Lives At Risk: Rights Groups

FIFA's decision to award the 2034 World Cup to Saudi Arabia puts many lives at risk and "marks a moment of great danger", Amnesty International and 20 other organisations warned on Wednesday. Saudi Arabia, which was the sole candidate, was rubber-stamped as the 2034 hosts at a virtual FIFA Congress, bringing the World Cup back to the Gulf region just 12 years after Qatar hosted in 2022. Awarding the tournament to Saudi Arabia "despite the well-known and severe risks to residents, migrant workers and visiting fans alike, marks a moment of great danger," Amnesty and organisations including Human Rights Watch, the Gulf Centre for Human Rights and the Football Supporters Europe group said in a statement.

"As global and regional human rights organisations, trade unions, fans groups and organisations representing migrant workers, many of us have long highlighted the severe risks posed by Saudi Arabia's hosting of mega-sporting events," the groups said.

"By awarding the 2034 World Cup to Saudi Arabia without meaningful protections, FIFA has today decided both to ignore our warnings and discard its own human rights policies."

'Weak human rights'

FIFA's own evaluation report, released last month, considered Saudi's bid to be "medium risk" for human rights, adding that implementing reforms could take "significant effort and time".

Rights groups have long highlighted mass executions in Saudi Arabia and allegations of torture, as well as restrictions on women under the conservative country's male guardianship system.

Free expression is severely restricted, with some people handed lengthy jail terms over critical posts on social media.

"FIFA can never claim that it did not know the severity of the risks of hosting its flagship event in a country with such weak human rights protections," said the statement. 

"Nor can the national Football Associations voting to approve it.

"It is evident that without urgent action and comprehensive reforms, the 2034 World Cup will be tarnished by repression, discrimination and exploitation on a massive scale." 

Saudi Arabia, which now hosts several high-profile events including Formula One, heavyweight boxing and tennis' WTA Finals, is often accused of "sportswashing" -- using sport to divert attention from its rights record.

Steve Cockburn, Amnesty International's Head of Labour Rights and Sport, said the decision to award the World Cup to Saudi Arabia "without ensuring adequate human rights protections are in place" will put many lives at risk. 

"Based on clear evidence to date, FIFA knows workers will be exploited and even die without fundamental reforms in Saudi Arabia, and yet has chosen to press ahead regardless," he said. 

"The organisation risks bearing a heavy responsibility for many of the human rights abuses that will follow.

"At every stage of this bidding process, FIFA has shown its commitment to human rights to be a sham."

The organisations said they would mobilise over the coming decade to ensure the "violations and abuses of this World Cup" are not ignored.

"FIFA must urgently change course and ensure that the World Cup is accompanied by wide-ranging reforms in Saudi Arabia, or risk a decade of exploitation, discrimination and repression connected to its flagship tournament," said Cockburn.

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Two Plead Guilty In Formula One Legend Michael Schumacher Blackmail Plot

A father and son pleaded guilty in a German court Tuesday over a plot to blackmail the family of Michael Schumacher by threatening to release images of the Formula One legend. The men from Wuppertal in western Germany made the admission at the opening of their trial in the city, a court spokeswoman said.  The men, identified only as Yilmaz T. and Daniel L., allegedly threatened to release private photos and videos of Schumacher and demanded 15 million euros ($15.7 million) from his family. These purportedly included images of the seven-time Formula One champion before and after a 2013 skiing accident, which left him with a serious brain injury.

Schumacher, 55, has not been seen in public since.

A third man, who is accused of supplying the photos to the other two defendants, also went on trial for his alleged part in the plot but made no admission of guilt.

The man, identified as Markus F. from the western German town of Wuelfrath, worked as a security guard at the Schumacher family residence in Switzerland until 2021.

Prosecutors accuse the suspect of selling images of Schumacher, acquired during his work, to the father and son for a "five-figure" sum.

According to prosecutors, Yilmaz T. rang an employee of the Schumacher family several times in June this year to demand money.

The employee demanded proof of the images, which was delivered from a new email address, said to have been set up by the suspected blackmailer's son.

The court has scheduled a total of five hearings until mid-February.

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Premier League Referee's Contract Terminated For Breach Of Contract

Premier League referee David Coote has had his contract terminated by the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) for ‘breach of contract'. The referee was suspended on November 11 after a video appeared to show Coote using foul language to describe former Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp and the club went viral. “Following the conclusion of a thorough investigation into David Coote's conduct, his employment with PGMOL has been terminated today with immediate effect. David Coote's actions were found to be in serious breach of the provisions of his employment contract, with his position deemed untenable.

"Supporting David Coote continues to be important to us and we remain committed to his welfare,” read the statement by PGMOL.

Coote, who has recently been at the centre of controversies that bring serious questions against the integrity of the Refereeing body, is also being investigated for a possible betting scandal.

The 42-year-old is being questioned surrounding a yellow card he showed to Leeds player Ezgjan Alioski, during the Leeds United versus West Bromwich Albion game in October 2019 and is being investigated both by the refereeing body in England, the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) and the Football Association (FA) in separate investigations as reported by British newspaper outlet The Sun.

The report suggests that Coote discussed handing out a yellow card over text messages but there is no suggestion that the referee made any financial gains over the event.

A previous video by The Sun also showed the referee snorting white powder whilst he was in Germany for the 2024 European Championship.

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Head Opens Up On Siraj's Fiery Send-Off To Him, Says "Disappointed With..."

Australia batter Travis Head on Saturday said he was disappointed with his reaction for the on-field confrontation with India pacer Mohammed Siraj but added that he would always stand up for himself, as day two of the pink ball Test saw the hosts tighten their grip on the game. Siraj gave a fiery send-off to Head, who struck his second Test century against India and eighth overall. Head made a brisk 140 off 141 balls, which put Australia in the driver's seat to level the Border-Gavaskar series.

"I actually jokingly said 'well bowled' and then he pointed me in (to go to) the shades. I had my reaction as well but I would not like to give (it) too much airtime," Head told the media after the end of play on day two.

The incident unfolded after Siraj, having dropped the local hero on 76 earlier in the day, conceded a six to him. The Hyderabadi responded immediately, castling Head with a low full toss and celebrating animatedly, while instructing him to walk back.

"I was surprised at the reaction in terms of the situation of the game and the lead up and there was no confrontation leading up to it and I felt like it was probably, a little bit far at the time," he said.

"That's why I'm disappointed in the reaction that I gave back but I'm also going to stand up for myself. I'd like to think in our team that we wouldn't do that, it's not how I'd like to play the game and I'd feel like my teammates (are) the same and if I'd seen that in that circumstances, I'd probably call it out, which I did," he said.

Head said Siraj's action led the home crowd to boo him.

"I think they booed him after the reaction. Do you want to raise the crowd up? You'll get the crowd."

The left-hander said he had spoken to some "individuals" regarding the confrontation but did not give any details.

"There's been conversations I've had, I'll leave those conversations that I've had with individuals around that," he said.

"Like I said, I feel, like the way I would like to play the game, I guess the respect shown for myself and I hope my teammates, I'd feel like I'd hold a high expectation of my teammates as well and the way we conduct ourselves and the way we go about things."

"I can't speak much for India but like I said, I'm going to call out in certain situations, I've had conversations with guys (in) this series about that."

"I feel like you can play hard and play fair but obviously when you're out you can't do much about it. I'm disappointed with the reaction I had after that but I'm going to stand up for myself," Head reiterated.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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The Rage and Glee That Followed a C.E.O.’s Killing Should Ring All Alarms

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Watch: Labuschagne 'Dares' Bumrah In Animated Exchange. This Happens Next

India pacer Jasprit Bumrah had an intriguing exchange with Australia batter Marnus Labuschagne on Day 1 of the pink-ball Test in Adelaide on Friday. The incident happened after the third ball of 13th over of Australia's innings when Labuschagne defended a good length ball from Bumrah. The Indian cricket team vice-captain picked up the ball and pretended to throw it towards the stumps as Labushcagne had come out of his crease to defend it. The batter then dared Bumrah to throw the ball, to which the Indian pacer smiled and turned back.

Indian bowling unit under Rohit Sharma's captaincypic.twitter.com/jURF7Kucly https://t.co/kDgNNe0cPU

— Kuljot (@Ro45Kuljot_) December 6, 2024

A few balls later, Bumrah came close to dismissing Labuschagne, with the ball just passing close to the stumps. He made a hilarious gesture mocking Labuschagne, who responded by saying: "Good ball".

This is TEST cricket #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/YRL3RxCvj7

— simon hughes (@theanalyst) December 6, 2024

After bowling India out for 180, Australia lost opener Usman Khawaja but took first day honours in the pink-ball Test.

At the close, the hosts were 86-1 with Nathan McSweeney not out 38 from 97 balls and Marnus Labuschagne on 20 after the visitors were dismissed on the cusp of tea after winning the toss and opting to bat.

A menacing Starc was India's chief destroyer.

He gave the hosts a dream start in removing Yashasvi Jaiswal with the first ball of the match and ended with 6-48 -- his best Test figures.

In reply, Australia weathered 10 overs of the pink ball at dusk before Jasprit Bumrah's persistence paid off, finding extra movement and with it a thick edge from Khawaja (13) that carried to Rohit Sharma at slip. 

Fellow opener McSweeney took 17 balls to get off the mark and had a life on three when dropped by wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant.

But he made the most of his fortune, showing maturity in his second Test, while Labuschagne survived a nervy start as he targets a big score after a lean spell.

(With AFP Inputs)

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El chocolate oscuro podría reducir el riesgo de diabetes

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"Power Vacuum At BCCI": Inside Details Revealed After Jay Shah's Exit

With Jay Shah taking over as International Cricket Council's youngest chairman on December 1, the role of secretary in the mighty BCCI lies vacant and as officials wonder who the replacement might be, they have time to figure out the next course of action. Following the constitutional amendment in 2022, the secretary is the most influential office-bearer in the BCCI, having "all powers in relation to cricketing and non-cricketing matters" with the CEO working under his supervision.

Shah was elected unopposed for the ICC top position in August and the stakeholders have been wondering ever since how the transition process will take place.

Gujarat's Anil Patel and current BCCI joint secretary Devjit Saikia could replace Shah in the BCCI. The name of DDCA president Rohan Jaitley was also floated but remained just speculation.

"We don't know what is happening. Everyone (BCCI officials and state units) is quiet on the matter. Most likely joint secretary (Saikia) will be interim for the time being," said a BCCI administrator.

"There are issues that need to be dealt with on a day to day basis and anyone who comes in, needs to have a bit of knowledge on how the BCCI is run," he added.

From the time an elected office-bearer resigns, the board has 45 days to call for a Special General Meeting and choose his successor.

If one calculates the 45 days from the day Shah took charge of ICC, the board has time till mid-January to fill up the position.

The BCCI also needs to appoint an electoral officer at least four weeks prior to the election, as per the constitution.

A senior state unit official said the board has ample time to complete the transition.

"Transition should have been complete by now. The secretary has to sign majority of documents. This matter should have been taken up at the AGM (in September) but nobody questioned at that time," said the official.

"There is a power vacuum right now at the BCCI, the most powerful cricketing body in the world," added another office-bearer of a state unit.

With the current three-year term of officer-bearers coming to end in September next year, the incoming secretary will be in charge for close to one year.

There is also no word yet on who the new BCCI representative in the ICC board would be. Shah held that position too and Board president Roger Binny is in the list of alternate directors.

IPL chairman Arun Dhumal is India's representative in the ICC's Chief Executives' Committee.

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CSK's Rs 30 Lakh Buy Dismisses Hardik, Krunal In 'Record' Hat-trick. Watch

Karnataka spinner Shreyas Gopal levelled with compatriot Amit Mishra to register the most hat-tricks by an Indian bowler in T20 cricket. Gopal reached this accomplishment during his side's Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy match against Baroda on Tuesday. During the game, while defending a total of 170 runs set on the back of a fine half-century from Abhinav Manohar (56 in 34 balls, with six sixes), Karnataka seemed to be in trouble with Baroda at 102/1 in 10 overs. Gopal, who was recently bought by CSK for Rs 30 lakh in the IPL auction, turned the game on its head by removing Shashwat Rawat for 63 in 37 balls, with seven fours and two sixes.

It was followed by him getting scalps of Pandya brothers, Hardik and Krunal for golden ducks, which earned him a hat-trick and his team a chance to win the game.

Gopal's figures of 4/19 ultimately went in vain as wicketkeeper-batter Vishnu Solanki remained unbeaten on 28 to guide his team to a four-wicket win with seven balls left.

Gopal now has the second-most hat-tricks by any bowler in T20 cricket, tying with Mishra. One of his hat-tricks was during the 2019 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) when playing for Rajasthan Royals (RR) against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), he removed Virat Kohli, Marcus Stoinis, and AB de Villiers. He also has a hat-trick against Haryana from the 2018-19 season.

The most hat-tricks by a bowler in T20s are by star Afghanistan spinner Rashid Khan, who has a total of four hat-tricks in T20s.

Gopal has played 103 T20s, taking 124 wickets at an average of 19.13, with the best figures of 5/11. He has also scored 525 runs in 42 innings at an average of 16.93, with best score of 48*.

In the ongoing SMAT 2024, he is the leading wicket-taker with 14 scalps in six matches at an average of 8.92, that includes a five-wicket haul too.

(This story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)

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Babar's Incusion, Afridi's Removal Questioned As Pak Pick Squad For SA Tour

Former cricketer Basit Ali has questioned the inclusion of Babar Azam in Pakistan's squads for South Africa tour and star pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi being dropped from the Test fold. Pakistan unveiled its squads for the multi-format tour of South Africa which will kick off on December 10 in Durban. A couple of surprises came along with the decision as Babar returned to the Test side after being dropped from the second and third Tests against England. While Shaheen, who was also dropped alongside the former Pakistan skipper, still remains sidelined from the red-ball cricket. Basit criticised the selection committee's decision to include Babar and dropping Shaheen from the Test side.

According to Basit, Shaheen was dropped from the side due to the incident that took place during Pakistan's first Test against Bangladesh. A video went viral in which Shaheen was seen removing skipper Shan Masood's hand from his shoulder during a team huddle on the field.

"Shaheen Afridi was asked to bowl on dead pitches, and he couldn't perform so what about Naseem Shah's performance? In the ODI series that Pakistan won against Australia, what did Naseem Shah do? I will tell you why Shaheen was removed. You must remember a video where Shan put a hand on Shaheen's shoulder, and he removed it," Basit said on his YouTube channel.

Basit even raised questions about the decision to bring Babar back to the Test fold. The 53-year-old asked if Babar's form since the England Test was enough to mark his comeback in the red-ball side.

"How many domestic matches Babar has played since being removed from the Test team? When Babar was dropped from the Test team, on what performance did he return to the team? He is a good player, but did his form improve after being dropped from that series?" Basit remarked.

Since being dropped from the Test side, Babar toured with Pakistan to Australia and returned with mediocre performances. In the three ODIs, he had 80 runs to his name, and in the T20Is, his form took a further slump with 47 runs in three matches, averaging 15.67.

Pakistan squads for the South Africa tour:

T20I: Mohammad Rizwan (captain & wk), Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Haris Rauf, Jahandad Khan, Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Hasnain, Muhammad Irfan Khan, Omair Bin Yousuf, Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Sufyan Moqim, Tayyab Tahir and Usman Khan (wk)

ODI: Mohammad Rizwan (captain & wk), Abdullah Shafique, Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Haris Rauf, Kamran Ghulam, Mohammad Hasnain, Muhammad Irfan Khan, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Sufyan Moqim, Tayyab Tahir and Usman Khan (wk)

Test: Shan Masood (captain), Saud Shakeel (vice-captain), Aamir Jamal, Abdullah Shafique, Babar Azam, Haseebullah (wk), Kamran Ghulam, Khurram Shahzad, Mir Hamza, Mohammad Abbas, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Naseem Shah, Noman Ali, Saim Ayub and Salman Ali Agha.

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Sufiyan Muqeem Enters Exclusive T20I Club As Pakistan Defeat Zimbabwe

Pakistan spinner Sufiyan Muqeem joined an exclusive club with a magical match-winning spell in the second T20I against Zimbabwe on Tuesday in Bulawayo. Muqeem's success was attributed to his exceptional pace variation, along with his effective use of top spin and googly, which dismantled Zimbabwe's batting line-up. In a remarkable 2.4-over spell, he claimed five wickets for just three runs. With his stunning figures of 5/3, Muqeem etched his name in history, recording the best-ever bowling figures for Pakistan in T20I cricket. The left-arm spinner surpassed former pacer Umar Gul's record of 5/6 against New Zealand in 2009.

Muqeem became part of an elite group of bowlers from Full Member nations who have taken a five-wicket haul in T20Is while conceding fewer than five runs. Before him, only three bowlers--Sri Lanka's Rangana Herath, Afghanistan's Rashid Khan, and India's Bhuvneshwar Kumar--achieved this rare feat.

Herath accomplished the milestone in 2014 with figures of 5/3 against New Zealand. Rashid followed with his spell of 5/3 against Ireland in 2017, and Bhuvneshwar joined the group in 2022 with figures of 5/4 against Afghanistan.

Muqeem's heroics ensured Zimbabwe's lowest total in T20I history--a mere 57 runs. After winning the toss and opting to bat, Zimbabwe regretted their decision as Muqeem dominated in his brief spell.

Although Zimbabwe's openers managed a decent start, Abbas Afridi drew first blood by dismissing Tadiwanashe Marumani. At 37/1, Zimbabwe collapsed dramatically, losing their remaining nine wickets for just 20 runs.

In response, Saim Ayub and Omair Yousuf made quick work of the target, wrapping up the game inside the powerplay and securing a 10-wicket victory for Pakistan, along with an unassailable 2-0 series lead.

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Fiorentina's Edoardo Bove 'Alert' In Hospital After On-Field Collapse: Club

Edoardo Bove is conscious and alert in hospital after his sudden collapse which caused Fiorentina's match with Inter Milan to be called off, the Serie A club said on Monday. In a statement, Fiorentina said that midfielder Bove "was awakened and extubated this morning. He is currently awake, alert and oriented" at Florence's Careggi hospital. "He has spoken with his family, club management, the coach and his team-mates, who all rushed to go and see him as soon as they heard the good news," added Fiorentina. "Further tests will be carried out in the coming days to establish what led to the critical situation that took place yesterday."

Bove was rushed to the Careggi hospital's intensive care unit following his sudden fall with 16 minutes played of Sunday's match, which was goalless when it was stopped for the medical emergency.

Bove's fall reminded fans of tragic former captain Davide Astori, who in March 2018 died suddenly in his sleep aged 31 in a hotel before a league match at Udinese.

Worried supporters stayed in their seats at the Stadio Artemio Franchi long after the match had been stopped in the hope of positive news after having watched players from both sides and officials sob in shock.

However, initial tests carried out on Sunday evening ruled out any serious damage to his central nervous and the cardio-respiratory systems.

Serie A confirmed to AFP that a meeting will be held on Monday afternoon to decide when the match will be completed, with Italian media reporting that the it won't be played until February.

(This story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)

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"Sachin Wasn't A Big Name": Ex-Aus Cricketer-Turned-Lawyer Who Got Him Out

Arguably the greatest batsman of all time, Sachin Tendulkar amassed nearly 16,000 Test runs in a glittering career. Tendulkar is also the highest scorer among Indian batters in Australia. However, when an 18-year old Sachin Tendulkar toured Australia in the summer of 1991/92, he wasn't so popular. On the eve of India's warm-up match against the Prime Minister's XI, Greg Rowell, an Australian lawyer who used to be a first-class cricketer, has narrated a heartwarming story of how he got Tendulkar out in the same game 23 years ago.

Rowell had dismissed not only Tendulkar, but also Ravi Shastri in the 'Prime Minister's XI vs India' game in 1991. The latter was a renowned all-rounder at that time. A fast bowler, Rowell ended the game with stunning figures of 7/27.

"Sachin Tendulkar wasn't such a big name then; Ravi Shastri was," said Rowell, in a conversation with The Indian Express. "Oh, by the end of the series though, I would know who Tendulkar really was," Rowell added.

That was because Tendulkar had made a serious mark on Australian soil even at the age of 18. Although Australia had demolished India 4-0 in the five-match Test series, Sachin Tendulkar had shone bright.

Tendulkar had finished the series as India's highest run-scorer. The 18-year-old slammed 368 runs in five Tests, including two centuries.

Interestingly, Shastri also performed well in the series, scoring 300 runs in just three games, and finishing as India's second-highest run-scorer.

Rowell had been part of a Prime Minister's XI that included several future Australia greats and regulars. The likes of Shane Warne, Matthew Hayden, Michael Bevan, Damien Fleming and Damien Martyn were all Rowell's teammates in that game. Allan Border had captained the side.

"It was televised nationally, and for us first-class players, it was a game where the country saw and judged you," revealed Rowell.

Rowell made it as far as Australia A, playing against the senior Australia side, but failed to carve out a long career in professional cricket. Rowell switched professions, becoming a lawyer, before eventually winding up as a board member of Cricket Australia.

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