Actor Neil Nitin Mukesh is presently occupied with his Mollywood debut “Khalifa”. Neil and the team of his next are shooting for their forthcoming project in Kozhikode, and they all decided to celebrate Eid in the presence of some great company and, of course, Biryani. The `Jail` actor took to the Stories section of his official Instagram handle and shared a video of everyone waiting for the biryani on the set. As soon as the pot was uncovered, all got in line to relish the festive delicacy.
Along with the clip, Neil also included the text, “Eid celebrations were special on the beautiful lands of Kozhikode/ Calicut with my awesome director directorvysakh sir producer jiinuinnovation thedonmichael and the enter crew. Blessed (sic).”
“PS: Best Biryani ever!!! Burp !!,” he added. On Neil`s birthday in January, the makers officially welcomed him to the Malayalam industry. Wishing him on his special day, the leading man of “Khalifa”, Prithviraj Sukumaran wrote on social media, “Happy birthday, Neil Nitin Mukesh! Welcome to the Malayalam film industry! #KHALIFA”.
Made under the direction of Vysakh, “Khalifa” marks the filmmaker`s reunion with Prithviraj after a long gap of 15 years. They last worked together in the 2010 superhit “Pokkiri Raja”. Written by Jinu V Abraham, the drama talks about a massive multi-million dollar gold smuggling racket operating out of the Middle East, with its networks stretching from London and Nepal to Kerala.
Talking about the technical crew, the camera work for the movie is being performed by Jomon T. John, with Jakes Bejoy scoring the tunes for “Khalifa”. Chaman Chakko is on board the team as the editor, and Yannick Ben is directing the action sequences of the drama. Along with Neil and Prithviraj, the core cast of the movie also includes Tovino Thomas, Mohanlal, and Krithi Shetty.
This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
Kolkata Knight Riders suffered yet another blow to their pace resources with India seamer Akash Deep ruled out for at least eight weeks due to a stress reaction in lower back on Saturday, which effectively sidelined him from the IPL.
The injury has also put the right-arm pacer in doubt for the one-off Test against Afghanistan in early June. “Akash Deep has had stress reaction on his lower back. There has been recurrence and it might take 8-12 weeks to heal,” a BCCI source told PTI.
This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
NEW DELHI: The crowd erupted in loud cheers the moment Rohit Sharma took the mic, with the noise reaching a crescendo when he declared, ‘iss baar No. 6 aapke paas’.Mumbai Indians are five-time Indian Premier League champions, having lifted the trophy in 2013, 2015, 2017, 2019 and 2020. However, Mumbai Indians have not won the title in the last five years. Notably, all five championships came under Rohit’s leadership.
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Shashi Tharoor & Samson’s Redemption Story: From Setbacks to Glory
Rohit, who was addressing fans at a Mumbai Indians event — MI Mix — held at the Jio World Garden on Saturday, was joined by Suryakumar Yadav and Hardik Pandya.“I want to thank you all on my team’s behalf. Keep supporting us like you do every year. We love it. And in return, we will try to make it IPL 2026 | ‘Iss baar No. 6’: Rohit Sharma’s big promise to Mumbai Indians fans – WATCH | Cricket News number 6. Iss baar Number 6 aapke paas laakar rakhein,” Rohit said.Are Mumbai Indians the greatest IPL team?Former India cricketer Irfan Pathan believes Mumbai Indians hold a slight edge over Chennai Super Kings as the ‘greatest team in IPL history’, even though both franchises have won the same number of titles.Pathan argued that MI’s impact on Indian cricket has been more significant, highlighting the number of top-quality players the franchise has produced for the national team.“CSK started winning the IPL title from 2010 onwards. They won back-to-back titles in 2010 and 2011 and were the first team to do so. But when Mumbai Indians started winning from 2013, they kept winning after every alternate year. Then they won the IPL trophy back-to-back in 2019 and 2020.”“What I like about Mumbai is their contribution to Indian cricket. The number of match winners they have produced for the Indian team is absolutely tremendous. How do you achieve that? First, you make your franchise big. Second, you deliver results with the team you have. Even now, Mumbai Indians had a great squad last season that could have easily won the trophy, but they couldn’t for different reasons.”While MI can take credit for identifying and nurturing talents like Jasprit Bumrah, Hardik Pandya, Ishan Kishan and Tilak Varma, CSK can point to their role in developing players such as Ravichandran Ashwin, Murali Vijay and Ruturaj Gaikwad.“CSK don’t have four Indian captains, Mumbai Indians do. In that respect, assembling a team and contributing to a bigger cause, I think Mumbai Indians are the greatest IPL team. I know CSK will always say they are also the greatest, having won five trophies too. There is no doubt. There will always be a debate and it is a fair debate. But I think Mumbai Indians take the edge because they have given so many wonderful cricketers and young talents to Indian cricket,” Pathan concluded.
Infinix Note Edge 5G review:Budget phones used to make you accept a few clear trade-offs. Build quality felt basic, screens looked average, and everyday performance often tested your patience. Over the years, that gap has started to shrink, and brands are trying to push more value into this segment.
Infinix Note Edge 5G starts at Rs. 21,999 for the 6GB RAM and 128GB storage. (Ijaj Khan – HT)
Ijaj Khan is a tech journalist and Senior Content Producer at HT Tech, where he translates the fast-paced world of consumer tech, gaming, and AI into stories that spark curiosity and connection. Always on the lookout for the next big trend, he believes technology should be as relatable as your everyday conversations. When he’s not decoding gadgets and innovations, you’ll likely find him hopping across cities, chasing new adventures, and sampling cuisines that tell their own stories.
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The Infinix Note Edge 5G, launched in India as the company’s first phone of 2026, is part of that effort. It introduces a new design direction for Infinix with a slim 7.2mm body, a 1.5K curved AMOLED display, and a large 6,500mAh battery. With a starting price of Rs. 21,999, it enters a crowded mid-range space. I have been using the Infinix Note Edge 5G for the past month as my secondary device to see how it handles daily tasks and whether it stands up to its claims. Here’s what stood out and what did not during my time with it in this detailed review.
Infinix Note Edge 5G Review: Slim Profile and Functional Design
The Infinix Note Edge 5G is available in three colour options: Silk Green, Stellar Blue and Lunar Titanium. (Ijaj Khan -HT)
Smartphone design often shapes the first impression long before users explore specifications. In many cases, how a device looks and feels in the hand can influence buying decisions just as much as performance or camera quality. After spending some time with the Infinix Note Edge 5G, it is clear that the brand has focused strongly on making the device stand out visually while keeping the build practical.
The first thing I noticed when picking up the phone was its slim profile. At just 7.2mm thick, the device feels noticeably thin, and the curved sides help it sit comfortably in the hand. The design does not try to look flashy, but it does create a clean and balanced feel during everyday use.
The phone comes in three colour options: Silk Green, Stellar Blue and Lunar Titanium. I got the first one for the review. This finish has a soft, almost fabric-like texture when you run your fingers across it. It adds some grip and gives the phone a different look compared to the usual glossy or matte backs. The other two colours lean more towards a metallic style for those who prefer a more familiar appearance. The camera module on the back has a decorative layout that draws attention without looking excessive.
Weight distribution also deserves mention. At 185g, the phone feels light enough for daily use, and the balance remains consistent whether you hold it in portrait or landscape mode. However, the smooth surface can make it a bit slippery. Thankfully, the box includes a rubberised protective case that significantly improves grip.
One small detail that caught my attention is the bright green customizable button placed on the side. By default, it activates Infinix’s Folax AI assistant, but users can assign other functions to it as well.
The rest of the button layout follows a familiar arrangement. The right side holds the power button, volume rocker and the customizable key, while the left side remains clean. All the buttons offer solid tactile feedback. Speaker grills are placed at both the top and bottom edges, which helps maintain balanced sound output. The bottom section also houses the main microphone, SIM tray and USB Type-C port.
From the front, the curved display gives the phone a look that some users may find dated, since many newer phones have moved to flat panels. Personally, I still find curved screens comfortable for gestures. The bezels around the display are slightly thicker than what we see on some rivals, but they are not distracting during regular use. The punch-hole camera is also reasonably small, and the front sensors remain hidden.
The device uses an optical in-display fingerprint sensor, and during my testing, it worked quickly and unlocked the device without errors.
Most of the phone’s body is built from plastic, including the frame and rear panel. While some buyers prefer glass or metal, plastic keeps the device lighter and reduces the risk of cracks from minor drops. The chassis feels firm with almost no flex, which gives the phone a reassuring sense of durability.
Infinix Note Edge 5G Review: Large and Bright Display
The Infinix Note Edge 5G features a 6.78-inch LTPS 3D curved AMOLED display. (Ijaj Khan -HT)
The display on the Infinix Note Edge 5G plays a big role in how the phone feels during daily use. It features a 6.78-inch 1.5K (1,208×2,644 pixels) LTPS 3D curved AMOLED panel with a 120Hz refresh rate. In daily use, the screen feels large and immersive without being distracting. The curves on the edges are very mild, so they rarely cause accidental touches while scrolling or watching videos. At the same time, they add a subtle design element when you look at the device from the side. The panel is also protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 7i, which adds some reassurance for long-term use.
Resolution is another area where the phone stands out. The 1.5K resolution gives this phone a noticeable edge in sharpness. Compared with rivals, the extra resolution makes text and video look slightly more refined. I noticed this especially when streaming videos on YouTube. The phone supports 1440p playback, which already looks detailed on this display. However, it does not go up to 4K streaming like some competitors, likely due to hardware limitations.
Colour reproduction on this panel works well for everyday viewing. Videos, photos, and apps appear lively without looking unnatural. I also found the white balance comfortable during long reading sessions. The brightness levels help outdoors, too. With typical brightness around 700 nits and higher levels reaching 1,600 nits, the screen remains readable under sunlight most of the time.
My main complaint relates to the refresh rate behaviour. The device runs at 120Hz across the interface, but newly installed apps default to 90Hz. This slightly breaks the smooth feel when switching between apps. You can change this manually in settings, but it is an extra step that many users may not notice.
On the durability side, the smartphone carries an IP65 rating for dust and splash resistance, and the wet touch feature keeps the screen responsive even when there’s light moisture. For a phone in this segment, that’s a practical addition.
Infinix Note Edge 5G Review: Performance and Software
Infinix Note Edge 5G starts at Rs. 21,999 for the 6GB RAM and 128GB storage. (Ijaj Khan – HT)
The Infinix Note Edge 5G is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7100 processor, a mid-range chip released in 2026. On paper, it sits below the MediaTek Dimensity 7300 and MediaTek Dimensity 7400 in the lineup, and that gap is visible in everyday use.
In my time with the handset, regular tasks like messaging, browsing, and scrolling through social media worked fine most of the time. Apps opened quickly, and basic navigation felt responsive. However, the experience wasn’t always smooth. When several apps stayed active in the background, I noticed small pauses here and there. For example, while streaming music on YouTube Music and switching between apps, the device occasionally slowed down. Even pulling down the notification panel sometimes caused a brief stutter.
That said, it’s clear that this smartphone is aimed at people who only use a few everyday apps. If your routine mostly includes platforms like WhatsApp, Instagram, YouTube, and a few casual gaming sessions on BGMI Lite, the performance should be adequate. It may not chase benchmark scores, but for light use, it manages to get the job done without major trouble.
Benchmark test scores. (Ijaj Khan – HT)
On the software front, the Infinix Note Edge 5G comes with XOS 16, the company’s latest interface built on Android 16. After spending some time with it, the update feels like a clear shift in how Infinix wants its phones to behave. The interface carries light and glass-style effects across elements such as the quick settings panel and lockscreen keypad, which makes the layout feel a bit more lively during everyday use.
Personalisation also gets more attention this time. XOS 16 adds new lockscreen clock styles, theme options, depth effects, and larger home screen icons. These changes make it easier to adjust the phone’s look without digging through too many menus.
Infinix has also pushed several AI tools into the system. One of the more practical additions is AI Mind Hub, which collects screenshots and pulls out useful information when needed. There’s also a voice changer designed for gaming and an updated Folax AI assistant that works with models like Gemini, ChatGPT, and Grok.
For long-term use, Infinix promises three Android upgrades and five years of security updates, which gives the device a decent support window.
Infinix Note Edge 5G Review: Camera Performance
The Infinix Note Edge 5G features a 50MP primary rear camera and a 13MP front-facing camera. (Ijaj Khan – HT)
Camera performance on the Infinix Note Edge 5G is built around a simple setup, but it still manages to deliver usable results in everyday situations. The phone carries a 50MP main camera with an f/1.8 aperture and dual flash. There is no ultra-wide sensor here, so wide landscape shots or large group photos require stepping back a bit. On the front, the device includes a 13MP selfie camera, and both front and rear cameras support video recording up to 2K at 30fps.
In daily use, the main camera performs best when the lighting is good. During bright daylight, photos captured at the standard 1x view show clear details and balanced colours. Images look clean enough for social media and casual sharing. The camera also offers a 2x option, which relies on digital cropping. Detail levels drop slightly here, but the images still remain usable.
One thing I noticed while shooting outdoors is that the phone sometimes struggles when the sun is directly above. In such conditions, contrast can look uneven, and parts of the image may appear slightly hazy. Outside of that situation, daylight photos generally come out well, with decent colour tones, controlled highlights, and shadows that still retain visible detail.
Low-light photography is more limited. Without optical stabilisation, the camera finds it harder to keep images sharp in dim environments. As a result, photos can lose detail and show some grain. Bright light sources at night, such as street lamps, can also cause a glow around them.
Portrait shots are acceptable for casual use. The phone manages natural skin tones most of the time, though edge detection around hair or complex backgrounds can occasionally look imperfect.
For selfies, the 13MP front camera captures good detail. Skin tones lean slightly warm, but overall, the results remain suitable for quick social posts or video calls.
Infinix Note Edge 5G Review: Battery and Charging
Battery life is where the Infinix Note Edge 5G makes a strong case. Even with its slim build, the phone carries a 6,500mAh battery and ships with a 45W charger. In my use, a full charge from 0 percent to 100 percent takes around one and a half hours, which is acceptable though not the fastest in this range. The battery comfortably lasts more than a day with regular use. There is still room for software tuning, but the built-in AI charge protection helps keep the battery in better shape over time.
Final Verdict
The Infinix Note Edge 5G focuses on design, display, and battery life rather than raw performance. The slim 7.2mm body, curved AMOLED screen, and large 6,500mAh battery make it comfortable for daily use and long hours away from the charger. The display is sharp and bright, and the software promises long-term update support.
However, the MediaTek Dimensity 7100 processor feels average for this price. Small stutters during multitasking and the lack of an ultra-wide camera also limit its appeal.
At Rs. 21,999, the phone offers value for users who want a thin design, large display, and strong battery for everyday apps, streaming, and light gaming. But if performance, gaming, or camera versatility matter more, exploring alternatives in the same price range would be the better choice.
The Yemeni armed group says all options are on the table.
As the US-Israeli war against Iran drags on, Yemen’s Ansar Allah, or the Houthis, have stayed out of the conflict.
But that could change. They have said they consider themselves directly concerned and could take a position alongside Iran.
The armed group has attacked Israel and shipping in the Red Sea in recent years. If a new front opens up, global trade could be further disrupted in another maritime gateway. Shipping is already largely halted in the Strait of Hormuz, causing significant losses worldwide.
So, will the Houthis join the war? And what difference could that make for this volatile region?
Presenter: James Bays
Guests:
Farea al-Muslimi – research fellow in the Middle East and North Africa programme at Chatham House
Khaled Batarfi – political analyst who specialises in Saudi Arabian foreign policy
Rockford Weitz – director of the Fletcher Maritime Studies programme at Tufts University
Michael Carrick described the inconsistency of penalty decisions in Manchester United’s 2-2 draw at Bournemouth as “crazy” after his side twice blew a lead on Friday.
United took the lead from the spot through Bruno Fernandes (61st min), but were denied a second penalty when Amad Diallo went down inside the box under a challenge from Adrien Truffert. Bournemouth immediately broke to equalise when Truffert teed up Ryan Christie (67th min) to draw level.
A James Hill own goal restored United’s lead four minutes later before Harry Maguire was sent-off and conceded a penalty for bringing down Evanilson. The contact on the Brazilian striker was remarkably similar to that ignored by the officials for Truffert’s challenge on Diallo. However, VAR did not intervene on any of the calls to ask referee Stuart Attwell to review his decisions.
“To give one and not give the other, I just can’t get my head around. It’s crazy. I can understand that decision [to send off Maguire] but we should have had another penalty and the game would have been different,” said Carrick.
This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
Fishermen in Gujarat will continue to receive diesel at subsidised rates after the Centre decided to roll back a recent steep increase in bulk fuel prices, following a request from the state government. The relief comes after oil companies raised the price of bulk diesel by Rs 22.43 per litre for industrial users earlier in the week, in response to rising global crude prices amid the ongoing supply disruption due to the Middle East war. The hike had also been extended to diesel supplied to fishing boats, triggering concern among the state’s fishing community. Fisheries minister Jitu Vaghani said that the Gujarat government intervened, urging the Centre to treat fishermen as retail consumers and provide a “special exception” to shield them from the increase.After the price hikes were announced, many manufactureres and transporters across the state were left struggling amid already existing pressures from inflaction and energy market volatility.“Under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Centre has accepted this reasonable representation of the fishermen of Gujarat. The Centre has instructed Bharat Petroleum to withdraw the increase of Rs 22.43 in the price of diesel used in fishermen’s boats,” an official release said.It added that “a representation was made to Vaghani, MLAs, local leaders and various fisheries organisations. Considering the seriousness of the matter, Vaghani, under the guidance of the chief minister, made a representation to the Centre to intervene in the matter.” “So, the fishermen of the state will now receive diesel at the previously decided concessional rate,” it added.The state had earlier entered into an agreement with Bharat Petroleum to supply diesel to fishermen at discounted prices. However, the recent revision had pushed up costs until the rollback was approved.The broader price revision comes at a time when global oil markets have been volatile. Bulk diesel prices in Delhi, for instance, were raised from Rs 87.67 per litre to Rs 109.59, even as retail fuel prices remained unchanged. Petrol in the national capital continues to be priced at Rs 94.77 per litre, while regular diesel remains at Rs 87.67.Officials have maintained that there has been no increase in fuel prices for the general public. “Some increase is reported in the premium category which hardly makes up for 2%-4% of the entire petrol (sold in the country),” said Sujata Sharma, joint secretary in the ministry of petroleum and natural gas. “There is no increase in price for the common man.”She added that fuel prices are determined by oil marketing companies as petrol and diesel have been deregulated, and the government does not directly set rates.Retail prices have been frozen since April 2022, with companies absorbing fluctuations in global crude prices. The government has indicated it will continue this approach unless there is a significant and sustained spike in international oil rates.India relies on imports for 88% of its crude oil needs, with a large share transported through the Strait of Hormuz. Ongoing tensions in the region have disrupted supplies and pushed global crude prices higher, touching $119 per barrel before easing to around $108.While bulk fuel costs have risen in line with global trends, the exemption for Gujarat’s fishermen ensures they will not be impacted by the latest hike.
Director Aditya Dhar’s Dhurandhar 2, led by Ranveer Singh, has finally arrived in cinemas, opening to a solid box office response and largely positive reviews from audiences. However, the film has also sparked a fresh row, with political commentator and YouTuber Dhruv Rathee once again taking aim at the spy thriller, dismissing it as “brain rot”.
This isn’t the first time Dhruv Rathee has taken sharp digs at Aditya Dhar’s Dhurandhar franchise.
Dhruv Rathee slams Dhurandhar 2
A few days ago, Dhruv took to X (formerly Twitter) to criticise Aditya’s spy thriller, calling it a propaganda film that, in his view, is no longer even well-made.
Dhruv tweeted, “I called Aditya Dhar a BJP propagandist 3 months ago. Now everyone will see it. It was subtle in the previous film, but he went so blatant this time in overconfidence. Remember how I said, well-made propaganda is more dangerous? Ab toh well-made bhi nahi raha (It’s not even well-made anymore.). Lol”.
On Saturday, Dhruv once again took a swipe at Aditya’s Ranveer Singh-led film while sharing a video about an AI masterclass he was organising. He posted the video with a caption that read, “ ₹500 for a Propaganda Film or ₹500 for your Future? Link is in bio!”.
In the video, Dhruv is heard saying, “Doston, iss Sunday aapke pass 2 choices hain.. Ya toh aap apne 4 ghate barbaad kar sakte ho iss propaganda film ko dekhne mein ya toh phir 3 ghate attend kar sakte ho mere AI masterclass (Friends, this Sunday you have two choices… you can either waste four hours watching this propaganda film, or spend three hours attending my AI masterclass).”
He added, “Faisla saaf hai, brain rot versus brain building (The choice is clear — brain rot versus brain building)”.
This isn’t the first time Dhruv has taken sharp digs at Aditya. Following the release of Dhurandhar last year, he had openly criticised the spy thriller. At that time, Dhruv posted a video titled ‘Reality of Dhurandhar’ on his YouTube channel, wherein he slammed the film for being ‘jhootha and vahiyat’ propaganda (lies and falsehoods), claiming that Aditya has tried to sell lies through the film. In the video, Dhruv said that the film was well made, adding that it made it ‘more dangerous’.
He said, “Well-made propaganda is more dangerous. Films like The Taj Story and The Bengal Films were not dangerous, kyunki wo bakwaas films thi (because they were bad films). But Dhurandhar is an engaging film.”
In the video, Dhruv also dismissed people defending Dhurandhar calling it ‘just a film’, saying, “The problem is that Dhurandhar repeatedly shows you it’s inspired by real events. It says so in the trailer. It shows the real footage from the 26/11 attacks. The real audio recordings of conversations between the terrorists and their handlers have been used. It also uses real-life gangsters and cops based in Pakistan’s Lyari.”
About Dhurandhar 2
Dhurandhar was set in Lyari, Karachi, an area known for its history of gang wars and violent turf battles. It revolved around covert intelligence operations in the background of geopolitical and terror events like the Kandahar plane hijack, the 2001 Parliament Attack and the 26/11 Mumbai attacks.
The sequel, titled Dhurandhar: The Revenge, charts the rise of Ranveer Singh’s character, Hamza Ali Mazari, in the Karachi underworld, while also delving into his origins as Jaskirat Singh Rangi, tracing the journey of the young man who eventually becomes a covert operative. It also stars R Madhavan, Rakesh Bedi, Sara Arjun, and Arjun Rampal. Released on March 19, the film has already crossed the ₹300 crore net mark in India.
After a forgettable start to the WPL, Shreyanka scripted a remarkable comeback, won the Purple Cap, and looked destined for greater things. It felt like the world was finally opening up for her, like this was the year she would truly arrive.
But just when the sky seemed within reach, everything began to slip away. A fractured finger during the Asia Cup halted her momentum, and though she recovered in time to play the T20 World Cup, India’s campaign ended in heartbreak.
What followed was even more heartbreaking for the all-rounder. Grade 3 shin splints in both legs forced her out of the game for months. Just when she had endured the grind of rehab and begun to believe the worst was behind her, the injury resurfaced, pushing her comeback further away and eventually ruling her out of WPL 2025.
For someone who had looked ready to conquer the stage, it was a devastating experience.
And yet, it is often in those darkest phases that athletes are truly forged. The hurt did not break her – it shaped her, leaving behind a cricketer who is not just gifted, but far stronger than before.
“In that one-year period, I learned a lot. There were disappointments and ups and downs, but what I gained as a person is greater maturity and an understanding of how to navigate difficult situations. Physically, I wasn’t very fit, and mentally I felt low, so I had to figure out how to come out of it on my own,” Shreyanka told India Today in an exclusive interview.
MEDITATION, VISUALISATION AND DISCOVERY
Shreyanka Patil suffered from multiple injuries in 2024. Courtesy: Shreyanka Instagram
Shreyanka had the support of her loved ones around her, but the hardest battles were the ones she had to fight within herself. Her comeback was not just about recovering from injury; it was a deeply personal journey of pain, patience, and self-discovery.
There were no ready-made answers, no quick fixes. Instead, she had to find her own way through the darkness, turning to visualisation, meditation, and learning how to stay calm while navigating the uncertainty of injuries.
“It wasn’t a clear-cut answer that I could get from someone else—it was a personal journey. I experimented with different approaches: visualisation, meeting new people, meditating, staying calm, and managing my injuries. Through trial and error, I discovered my own way forward. I learned a lot from my mistakes, both as an individual and as a cricketer,” Shreyanka said.
“Being injured and mentally down was challenging because I couldn’t do what I love most. During that year, I often asked myself, ‘What’s next? Will I be able to play again?’
“As a cricketer, once you know you’ve faced and overcome a difficult period, returning to the field makes you truly grateful,” Shreyanka added.
THE TOUGH COMEBACK
Shreyanka recently made her India comeback after 16 months. Courtesy: Getty Images
After an agonising 11-month injury layoff, Shreyanka finally found her way back in September 2025, turning out for Barbados Royals in the Women’s Caribbean Premier League. Soon after, she watched from afar as India lifted the Women’s World Cup.
She finally wore India colours again in February 2026, ending a painful 16-month wait. But the comeback was far from easy. After picking up 2 for 24 against the Governor General XI, she endured a difficult return at the Sydney Cricket Ground and was dropped for the second T20I in Canberra.
Just when doubts could have returned, Shreyanka found strength in coach Arjun Dev, whose guidance helped her stay afloat.
“Heading into Sydney for my comeback T20 against Australia, stepping onto the SCG was surreal. I had imagined it so many times, and being there was an incredible feeling. The first game didn’t go as planned—I got hit for 24 runs in 2 overs, and I felt confused and frustrated. On the bus to Canberra, I had a long conversation with Arjun, someone I trust deeply. I expressed what was working, what wasn’t, and even shed some tears. His advice really helped me regain perspective,” Shreyanka said.
“In Canberra, during practice, I felt comfortable and clear-minded again. I missed the second T20, which was disappointing, but I understood that cricket is full of ups and downs and so I focused on the third T20I,” Shreyanka added.
‘I AM BACK’
Shreyanka Patil bowled a match-winning spell vs Australia in Adelaide. Courtesy: Shreyanka Instagram
After a bruising start to the tour, fortune finally smiled on Shreyanka. In Adelaide, Shreyanka did not just return – she looked like herself again, sharper, bolder, and ready to own the moment. She drew strength from Rahul Dravid’s knock in the 2003 Test against Australia and from Virat Kohli’s many memorable ones at the same venue.
Then came the spell that changed everything. She removed Georgia Voll, produced an absolute beauty to clean up Ellyse Perry, and then outfoxed the dangerous Annabel Sutherland. Her figures of 4-0-22-3 became the heartbeat of India’s 17-run win in the decider, sealing a T20I series victory on Australian soil after 10 long years.
“Stepping onto the Adelaide Oval, I had a different mindset. I felt confident, inspired by the greats who had performed there before, and I wanted to do something special.
“I kept thinking about Rahul Dravid’s 233 and Virat Kohli as well – he has scored a lot of runs at that ground. I was talking to my friends and told them, ‘I think this is my game. I’m going to do something special at this ground’,” Shreyanka said.
“The crowd’s energy was amazing – fans asking for pictures, cheering — it gave me a huge boost. From the very first ball, I felt like, ‘I am back.’ Taking Perry’s wicket was a dream moment, something I had imagined for years.”
“I even remembered tweeting about her 300th game, and here I was, taking her wicket in her 350th. Later, dismissing Georgia and Sutherland during a crucial spell felt incredible,” Shreyanka added.
Shreyanka may not have won the Player of the Match award, but anyone who truly understands the game knows this: without Shreyanka’s spell, India might never have defended 176.
THE MEMORABLE SPELL
Shreyanka Patil took a 5-wicket haul in the WPL against Gujarat Giants. Courtesy: PTI
After her comeback, Shreyanka featured for Royals in the WCPL and for Karnataka in the Senior Women’s T20 Trophy, but somewhere, the old spark – that fierce, fearless Shreyanka – still seemed missing. The rhythm was there, the effort was there, but the fire had not fully returned.
Then came Navi Mumbai. On that night against Gujarat Giants, the real Shreyanka rose again, reminding everyone of the match-winner she can be. With a stunning five-wicket haul, she became only the third spinner after Asha Sobhana and Amelia Kerr to achieve the feat in the WPL.
“I think having a five-wicket haul in your bag is something you can really flaunt, it’s a special achievement. Getting a five-wicket haul requires strength and courage, and I managed to do it against the Giants,” Shreyanka said.
Shreyanka also reflected on dismissing the legendary Meg Lanning against UP Warriorz – a batter she has now gotten out three times in T20s. The only other batter Shreyanka has dismissed three times in T20 cricket is West Indies captain Hayley Matthews.
“Taking Meg Lanning’s wicket again was particularly satisfying. After my comeback in the WPL, this achievement feels incredibly special. I’m truly grateful – getting a five-wicket haul is something I had always dreamt of,” Shreyanka added.
NO BUTTERFLIES, BUT EYES ON THE PRIZE
Shreyanka Patil said she wants to win the T20 World Cup 2026. Courtesy: Getty Images
Last year, Shreyanka posted a picture visualising herself standing on the Lord’s balcony, lifting the Women’s T20 World Cup trophy. Now, with the World Cup final less than four months away, that dream feels closer than ever. But Shreyanka isn’t looking too far ahead. For now, her focus remains firmly on the South Africa tour, where India will play five T20Is.
“Right now, there are no butterflies, I’m just focused on improving. After winning the T20 series against Australia, our attention shifts to the five T20s against South Africa in South Africa. The goal is to win the series and build momentum leading up to the World Cup in England.
“I’m taking it one match at a time, preparing myself to make an impact for the Indian team. Maybe when the World Cup gets closer, I’ll start feeling those butterflies, but for now, it’s all about focus and performance,” Shreyanka said.
But the bigger dream still burns within Shreyanka. Watching five World Cup-winning teams, including the 2025 Women’s World Cup side, being felicitated at the BCCI’s Naman Awards only made that hunger stronger.
“I missed being there—dressing up, stepping onto the field, and collecting a trophy in front of so many talented cricketers. Being injured and missing out on the World Cup squad was tough, but I had to take it as motivation: to get better, work hard, and aim for the next squad to win another title for India. That’s my mindset, and I hope that next time we win the World Cup, I’ll be there to collect my medal too,” Shreyanka added.
THE UNKNOWN TERRITORY
Shreyanka Patil hasn’t played for India in South Africa. Courtesy: PTI
Shreyanka has limited experience of bowling outside the subcontinent. In fact, the Australia tour marked the first time she played a match for India beyond familiar conditions. South Africa will be another leap into the unknown, with conditions she has never experienced before.
But if there is one thing this journey has taught her, it is to trust herself. The young off-spinner remains confident in her skills and says she plans to approach the South Africa tour with the same belief and clarity that carried her through Australia.
“I trust my skills. I know I can turn the ball on any pitch and try to give those extra revs – that comes naturally to me. I applied this approach in Australia, and I’m preparing the same way for South Africa. I’ll focus on adapting to the conditions there, taking practice sessions, figuring out what bowling styles work best, and then executing them to perform well,” Shreyanka said.
Shreyanka can also draw confidence from history. India men’s spinners have found success in South Africa before – from Anil Kumble and Harbhajan Singh to Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep Yadav. Their performances on South African soil are proof that skill, control and belief can still make spin a potent weapon, even in conditions that often favour pace.
NO OBSESSION OVER ODI COMEBACK
Shreyanka Patil made her international debut in 2023. Courtesy: PTI
While Shreyanka has made her name primarily as a T20 bowler, not many realise she has already had a taste of ODI cricket too. In just three appearances for India, she has removed some of the biggest names in the game, including Beth Mooney, Ash Gardner, and Marizanne Kapp. Yet, more than two years after her debut in 2023, a return to the ODI side has remained elusive.
But rather than obsess over that comeback, Shreyanka has chosen patience over frustration, focusing instead on consistency and doing everything she can to help her team win, trusting that the opportunities will come when the time is right.
“My focus is on doing the best I can for the team, whichever team I play for. Right now, it’s the T20 World Cup, so for every game I’m given, I want to make an impact and contribute to winning matches or titles. I’m not thinking too far ahead about being in the Test squad or the ODI squad—I just want to perform consistently, focus on winning each game, and let everything else fall into place naturally,” Shreyanka said.
THE NEW VENTURE
While Shreyanka is best known for her exploits on the field, she has recently stepped beyond cricket by venturing into business with the launch of her own perfume brand, 317. For someone who often draws inspiration from those around her, this time she chose to look inward.
The idea came from a striking coincidence – a number that kept appearing at defining moments in her journey. From her birthday to her WPL auction number in 2023, and even the date RCB lifted their maiden WPL title, 317 had quietly become part of her story.
“I’m super happy and proud that this is my first business. I’m excited to launch my perfume brand, 317, which has a very personal story for me. 317 represents so many meaningful things: my birthday is July 31, the first time we lifted the WPL trophy for RCB was on March 17, and my serial number in the first-ever auction was 317,” Shreyanka said.
“My family, my coach, and I kept noticing these coincidences, and we felt we had to do something special with this number.
“We decided on a perfume brand. I took it very personally—sitting with Arjun sir, my brother, and my family, testing fragrances and deciding what I truly liked. Eventually, we created a fragrance I genuinely love and believe others will too. I’m very grateful and proud to say that 317 is my brand,” Shreyanka added.
IS 2026 FINALLY SHREYANKA’S YEAR?
Shreyanka Patil will look to cement her place in India’s limited-overs teams. Courtesy: PTI
If 2025 tested Shreyanka in every possible way, 2026 has begun like a long-awaited smile after months of pain. She not only poured her heart out in Adelaide, but also lifted the WPL title with RCB, two moments that must have reminded her of who she truly is. That magical spell in Adelaide, in particular, would have done wonders for her confidence, reaffirming that the fire within her never really faded.
And yet, the year is still young. With the South Africa tour ahead and three T20Is in England lined up as part of India’s T20 World Cup build-up, there is so much still waiting for her. In 2024, Shreyanka had begun with the world at her feet before injuries cruelly pulled her back.
Now, 2026 has opened in similarly dazzling fashion. This time, though, she will hope the story ends differently with the unfinished business of 2024 finally completed, and with Shreyanka establishing herself not just as a comeback story, but as an indispensable member of India’s T20 team.
Actor Shah Rukh Khan took to his Instagram late on Saturday to wish fans on Eid. The actor posted a picture of himself doing a salaam and penned a sweet note for fans. His fans did not just flood the comment section with Eid Mubarak wishes; many also commented that their festival was made possible by his wishes.
Shah Rukh Khan wished his fans joy and peace on Eid.
Shah Rukh Khan wishes love and light on Eid
Shah Rukh posted a picture of himself in a green sherwani, paired with a black salwar, doing the traditional salaam. He captioned the post, “Here’s wishing you and your families a joyful, peaceful and blessed Eid. Love and light to one and all, may we get all that we pray for and more… Eid Mubarak!!”
The post drew a quick response online, with many commenting with heart emojis and Eid Mubarak wishes. One fan commented, “Meri eid complete hogyi Ustaad Khair Mubarak (My Eid is complete maestro, Khair Mubarak).” Another fan wrote, “We got our edi.” “Waiting for #King Khan,” wrote one, talking about his upcoming film. Numerous others also commented, calling him ‘King’.
Upcoming work
Shah Rukh last starred in the 2023 films Pathaan, Jawan, and Dunki, and reprised his Pathaan role in a cameo in Tiger 3. The actor took a break after that, despite Pathaan and Jawan performing well at the box office, because he had done three films in a year.
He is now shooting for Siddharth Anand’s King. The film also reportedly features Suhana Khan, Deepika Padukone, Abhishek Bachchan, Arshad Warsi, Jaideep Ahlawat, Raghav Juyal and others in key roles, along with Anil Kapoor and Rani Mukerji. However, an official announcement of the cast is yet to be made.
King’s first look was released in November last year. Shah Rukh appeared in a dark, menacing avatar, with silver hair and a bloodied face. Holding a King of Hearts card in his hand, he flips it toward the camera and says, “Kitne khoon kiye ye yaad nahi. Ache log they ya bure kabhi pucha nahi. Bas unki aankhon me ehsas dekha, ye unki aakhri saans hai. Aur main uski wajah. Hazaar jurm, 100 deshon me badnam, duniya ne diya, sirf ek hi naam. Darr nahi deh shat hoon.”
(I don’t remember how many I’ve killed. Were they good or bad? I never asked. I only saw the emotions in their eyes: that this was their last breath, and that I was the reason. A thousand crimes, notorious in a hundred countries, the world gave only one name. I am not just fear, I am chaos.)
King is backed by his Red Chillies Entertainment and is slated for release on December 24.
