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Faisal Abbas-trained Thalassa for CN Wadia Gold Cup (Gr 2)

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Faisal Abbas-trained Thalassa for CN Wadia Gold Cup (Gr 2)



Faisal Abbas-trained Thalassa for CN Wadia Gold Cup (Gr 2)

Jockey A Sandesh, after his successful mercy petition plea, will return to the saddle on Sunday, and is engaged to ride seven runners on a bumper, ten-race card sponsored by Zavaray S Poonawalla. The CN Wadia Gold Cup (gr 2) is the feature event of the evening card, and Sandesh would have sufficiently acclimatized by the time this event will be run. It is, therefore, expected that he will be able to do full justice to the Faisal Abbas-trained Thalassa, a prime contender based on the last run, and will most likely win the feature event.

First race at 4 pm.
Selections: 

Haunting Memories Million (Class II; 1600m)
Namiri 1, Thundering Phoenix 2, Zacharias 3.

Open Spaces Million (Class V; 1200m)
Santana Row 1, Jackson 2, Ashwa Ankara 3.

Shapoorji Pallonji Breeders` Juvenile Colts` Championship – Gr 3 (For 3y, Colts; 1600m)
D`Artagnan 1, Puccini 2, Alexios 3.

Forbes Breeders` Juvenile Fillies` Championship – Gr 3 (For 3y, Fillies; 1600m)
Angelisa 1, Menorca 2.

Maharaja Sir Harisinghji Trophy, powered by Zavaray S Poonawalla – Gr 3 (For 4y&o; 1600m)
The Milenium Force 2, African Gold 2, Pride`s Prince 3.

CN Wadia Gold Cup, powered by Zavaray S. Poonawalla – Gr 2 (For 4y&o; 2400m)
Thalassa 1, Red Bishop 2, King`s Gambit 3.

Lahinch Million (Class IV; 1400m)
Starseed 1, Neutralist 2, Charisse 3.

Poonawalla Stud Farms Auction Sale Stakes (For 3y, reserved for Poonawalla Stud Farms produce; 1400m)
Invictor 1, Mystica 2, Gunfire 3.

Zavaray S Poonawalla Sprinters` Challenge (For 4y&o; 1200m)
Dream Seller 1, Miss American Pie 2, Shambala 3.

Ahead Of My Time Million (Class III; 1200m)
Challenge Accepted 1, Shirsa 2, Manor House 3.

Recommendations
Best bet: Angelisa (4-1)
Upsets: Psychic Star (5-1), Sovereign King (6-1) & Western Star (9-4)

Today`s pools
Super jackpot pool: 5,6,7,8,9,10
Jackpot pool: I – 3,4,5,6,7; II – 6,7,8,9,10
Treble pool: I – 4,5,6; II – 6,7,8; III – 8,9,10
Tanala pool: All races.


After Arijit, Shreya says 'I also feel like taking a break'

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After Arijit, Shreya says 'I also feel like taking a break'


After Arijit Singh, Shreya Ghoshal says 'I also feel like taking a break': 'I will stop singing the day I have to lip-sync'
After Arijit Singh’s decision to step away from playback singing sparked discussion among fans, Shreya Ghoshal has shared her thoughts on the singer’s move and the importance of authenticity in live performances. The singer stressed that lip-syncing on stage is something she would never want to rely on. She also described Arijit as someone deeply connected to music.

After Arijit Singh’s decision to step away from playback singing sparked discussion among fans, Shreya Ghoshal has shared her thoughts on the singer’s move and the importance of authenticity in live performances.Speaking in an interview with ABP News, Shreya said performing live is central to who she is as an artist. The singer stressed that lip-syncing on stage is something she would never want to rely on.“I feel very uncomfortable with that. I will stop singing the day I have to do that,” she said, adding that as long as her voice supports her and she continues her riyaaz, she prefers to stand on stage and sing live for audiences.

Shreya Ghoshal praises Arijit Singh’s “brave” decision to take a break

Reacting to Arijit Singh’s recent decision to step away from playback singing for films, Shreya said she respects the courage it takes to make such a choice.“I also feel like taking a break sometimes. He took that decision very bravely,” she said.She also described Arijit as someone deeply connected to music.“He is a musician from the heart. He doesn’t think about why he is making music or what he will get from it. He just does what makes him happy,” she added.

‘For him, music is bigger than everything else’

Shreya said Arijit’s sincerity toward music is one of the reasons audiences connect with him so strongly.“For him, music is bigger than everything else, and that’s why people love him so much,” she noted.Arijit Singh’s journey in Bollywood has been marked by several chart-topping songs, making him one of the most loved playback singers of the past decade.

Mahesh Bhatt Reacts As Arijit Singh Announces Shock Retirement From Bollywood Playback Singing

Shreya on the responsibility artists carry while performing live

Talking about stage performances, Shreya said artists have a responsibility toward the people who come to watch them.“As entertainers, what we are going through personally should not show on stage. People come to us for music and inspiration. Music heals them and helps them escape from their problems,” she said. Shreya added that the love she receives from audiences continues to motivate her to perform.“When your heart is happy, the energy comes automatically,” she said, adding that applause and audience interaction remain the biggest source of inspiration for her.


Ukraine eyes money and tech in return for Middle East drone support | US-Israel war on Iran News

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Ukraine eyes money and tech in return for Middle East drone support | US-Israel war on Iran News


Ukraine’s leader previously said advisers were sent to Qatar, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia to help thwart Iranian drone attacks.

Ukraine wants money and technology as payback after sending specialists to the Middle East to help down Iranian drones during the ongoing Israel-United States war with Iran.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy told reporters on Sunday that three teams were sent to the region to undertake expert assessments and demonstrate how drone defences work as countries in the Middle East continue to be targeted by Iran over hosting US military bases.

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“This is not about being involved in operations. We are not at war with Iran,” Zelenskyy said.

Earlier this week, Ukraine’s leader announced military teams were sent to Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and a US military base in Jordan.

But he explained that more long-term drone deals could be negotiated with Gulf countries, and what Kyiv gets in return for its assistance still needs to be established.

“For us today, both the technology and the funding are important,” Zelenskyy said.

Throughout the four-year Russia-Ukraine war, Moscow has widely used Iranian Shahed-136 “suicide” drones, giving Kyiv expertise in knowing how to down the unmanned aerial vehicles through cheap drone interceptors, electronic jamming tools, and anti-aircraft weaponry.

However, US President Donald Trump has said he does not need Ukraine’s help in taking down Iranian drones attacking American targets.

INTERACTIVE - SHAHED 136 drone

‘Rules must be tightened’

Zelenskyy said he doesn’t know why Washington hasn’t signed a drone agreement with Kyiv, which it has pushed for months.

“I wanted to sign a deal worth about $35bn–50bn,” he said.

Still, as the Russia-Ukraine conflict continues with no end in sight, Zelenskyy raised concerns that the ongoing war in the Middle East will impact Kyiv’s supplies of air defence missiles.

“We would very much not like the United States to step away from the issue of Ukraine because of the Middle East,” he told reporters.

But as interest has grown for Ukrainian drone interceptors in light of the war, Zelenskyy said Kyiv’s rules to buy the drones must be tightened, with foreign countries and firms being unable to bypass the government and talk directly to manufacturers.

“Unfortunately, representatives of certain governments or companies want to bypass the Ukrainian state to purchase specific equipment,” Zelensky told reporters.

“Even in some free countries, we do not initially receive contracts from the private sector. A contract comes to me through the political channel. Only then does the private sector start negotiating with us.”

 


Meet Dua Jameela. Shamna Kasim introduces newborn daughter with adorable 1st pic

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Meet Dua Jameela. Shamna Kasim introduces newborn daughter with adorable 1st pic


Actor Shamna Kasim, also known as Poorna, has given birth to a baby girl. She took to Instagram on Saturday to introduce her secondborn and reveal her name, along with an adorable picture. The actor already has a son and has been married to Shanid Asif Ali for over three years.

Shanid Asif Ali and Shamna Kasim with their children, Hamdan Asif Ali and Dua Jameela.
Shanid Asif Ali and Shamna Kasim with their children, Hamdan Asif Ali and Dua Jameela.

Shamna Kasim introduces baby girl, Dua Jameel

Shamna announced the news of her baby’s birth on Instagram and wrote, “Today, Allah has blessed my life with another precious gift. Early this morning at 4:25 AM, close to the time of Fajr, we were blessed with a baby girl. Immediately after her birth, the Adhan and Iqamah were recited in her ears.”

Revealing the baby’s name, she added, “We have named our beloved daughter “Dua Jameela.” May Allah grant her a long life, good health, and strong Iman, and make her grow into a righteous and noble person. May she be a great blessing for our entire family.”

She also posted a sweet picture of herself holding the newborn, as her husband, Shanid, gazes lovingly at their daughter, with their son, Hamdan Asif Ali, in his arms. The text on the picture reads, “Welcome Baby Dua Jameela. Meet our beautiful daughter Dua Jameela born on March 14, 2026.” As congratulatory messages poured in, Shamna commented, “Thank u each and everyone for all the prayers and wishes,” with heart and hug emojis.

Shanid also announced the baby’s birth on his Instagram, writing, “By the grace and blessings of Allah, a baby girl was born into our family today at 4:25 AM. She is a precious gift from Allah and a loving little sister for our Hamdu mon. This is truly a great blessing for our family. We sincerely thank Allah for granting a safe and smooth delivery without any complications. May Allah bless our baby and our family.”

He also added, “We would also like to express our heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Safa Fathima, all the nurses who supported us in the room and labor room, and the team at Aster Hospital for their great care and support. Special thanks to all our dear ones who kept us in their prayers.”

About Shamna Kasim and Shanid Asif Ali

Shamna married Dubai-based businessman Shanid in October 2022 after a quiet engagement in June of the same year. Their firstborn, son Hamdan, whom they lovingly call Hamdu, was born in April 2023.

Shamna, who debuted with the 2004 Malayalam film Manju Poloru Penkutty, debuted in Telugu in 2007 with Sri Mahalakshmi, in Tamil in 2008 with Muniyandi Vilangial Moonramandu and in Kannada in 2009 with Jhossh.

In 2024, she featured in the special number Kurchi Madathapetti from Mahesh Babu’s Guntur Kaaram and Bhimaa in Telugu, and starred in Devil and Oru Thee in Tamil. She was last seen in Balakrishna’s Akhanda 2: Thaandavam.


‘Ek century ho jaye toh mazaa ajayega’: Samson admits coming close to breaking Gambhir’s ‘trophy over milestone’ rule

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‘Ek century ho jaye toh mazaa ajayega’: Samson admits coming close to breaking Gambhir’s ‘trophy over milestone’ rule


One of the biggest drivers of India’s ruthless white-ball dominance under Gautam Gambhir has been a clear shift in mindset, with the head coach instilling a strict “trophy over milestone” policy inside the dressing room. For Gambhir, there is little room to celebrate personal landmarks, winning matches and lifting trophies matter far more than missed centuries.

Sanju Samson (C) celebrates with his coach Gautam Gambhir (L) after their team's win in the 2026 T20 World Cup final match against New Zealand in Ahmedabad (AFP)
Sanju Samson (C) celebrates with his coach Gautam Gambhir (L) after their team’s win in the 2026 T20 World Cup final match against New Zealand in Ahmedabad (AFP)

The policy, however, did not emerge only after India’s historic T20 World Cup triumph last Sunday in Ahmedabad. Speaking at the India Today Conclave, Sanju Samson revealed that the rule had been made clear to every player much earlier, when Gambhir took charge of the Indian team during the white-ball tour of Sri Lanka in July 2024. Since then, players have largely adhered to the team-first philosophy.

ALSO READ: After long travel ordeal in India, West Indies players are finally back home, informs Caribbean cricket governing body

Yet Samson admitted that he came close to breaking that mindset during India’s victorious T20 World Cup campaign.

The India opener, who went on to win the Player of the Tournament award for his outstanding batting performances, revealed that the thought of a personal hundred did cross his mind, before he quickly checked himself.

“Those were constant conversation points that we wrote down in team meetings since the Sri Lanka series (in 2024) when Gambhir and Suryakumar took over,” Samson said. “From that moment, it was clear there was no place for personal milestones. That is how our character got aligned.

“Yes, there is a conscious effort. But when people say that I missed out on three hundreds, I feel I made a much bigger contribution. I won’t say I never thought about those hundreds. As a human being, I also thought that ‘Ek hundred ho jaye toh mazaa aa jayega. (It would be fun to score one century)’ You definitely think about it.

“But then I told myself, ‘How did you score so many runs?’ So I respected the process and kept playing my shots. The only thought was what the team needed from me at that moment.”

Samson fell agonisingly short of a century on multiple occasions during the tournament, finishing unbeaten on 97 against the West Indies cricket team in Kolkata, before being dismissed for 89 in both the semifinal against England and the final against New Zealand.

The Kerala batter, who was not part of the playing XI in four of India’s first five matches, eventually ended the tournament with 321 runs, including three half-centuries, to cap off a remarkable campaign.


Akshay Kumar: Interviewing PM Modi easier than delivering a hit

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Akshay Kumar: Interviewing PM Modi easier than delivering a hit


Akshay Kumar says interviewing PM Narendra Modi was easier than delivering a hit film; addresses Canadian passport criticism
Akshay Kumar recently reflected on his widely discussed interview with Narendra Modi, saying the experience was a “delight” and far easier compared to the challenge of delivering a successful film. He also addressed the long-standing controversy surrounding his former Canadian passport while responding to the debate around his perceived “nationalist hero” image.

Akshay Kumar recently reflected on his widely discussed interview with Narendra Modi, saying the experience was a “delight” and far easier compared to the challenge of delivering a successful film. He also addressed the long-standing controversy surrounding his former Canadian passport while responding to the debate around his perceived “nationalist hero” image.During a conversation with India Today, the actor was asked what was more difficult — delivering hit films or interviewing the Prime Minister.

Suneel Darshan Reveals Why Akshay Kumar-Shilpa Shetty Wedding Never Happened!

Responding with a smile, Kumar said, “Oh that was a delight to interview him. And on the contrary, making a hit film is very difficult thing.”The actor’s interview with Modi in 2019 had sparked widespread discussion at the time, with the candid conversation covering the Prime Minister’s personal life and routine.

‘I don’t do films to build an image’

The conversation also turned to Kumar’s perceived “nationalist hero” image, which has often been associated with films such as Kesari, Airlift, Baby, and Mission Mangal.When asked whether he deliberately chose such projects to cultivate a nationalist image, particularly during the period when his Canadian citizenship was being questioned publicly, Kumar dismissed the idea.“Sir, me koi bhi kaam karta hoon, koi image banane ke liye nahi karta. Main bohot sare kaam karta hoon lekin koi Nationalist image banane ke liye nahi kar raha hoon. Main kaam karta hoon kyunki mujhe theek lagta hai. Mujhe lagta hai ye mujhe karna chahiye, main kar leta hoon,” he said. (“Sir, I don’t do any work to build an image. I do many kinds of work, but not to create a nationalist image. I take up projects simply because they feel right to me.”)

‘Yes, I had a Canadian passport’

Kumar also revisited the long-running controversy surrounding his former Canadian passport, explaining that it was linked to a particularly difficult phase in his career.“Vese to main ye pehle kayi baar keh chuka hoon ki haan Canadian mera passport tha… meri 16–17 films flop ho gayi thi. Mere paas kaam tha, lekin bas last ki 3–4 filmein bachi hui thi to mene socha ki yaar kuch na kuch aur to aadmi karta hai,” he said. (“I have said this many times. Yes, I had a Canadian passport. At one point, around 16–17 of my films had flopped, and only a few were left to release, so I started thinking about what else I could do.”)The actor explained that during that difficult period, a friend in Canada suggested he consider starting a small business there. While exploring that possibility, he got an opportunity to obtain a Canadian passport. However, the situation soon changed.According to Kumar, the few films that were pending release went on to perform well, and he began receiving more work again in the industry. As a result, he dropped the idea of moving to Canada.“Mera hamesha Hindustan se poora naata hai, main Hindustani hoon aur hamesha rahunga,” he added. (“I have always had a deep connection with India. I am Indian and will always remain Indian.”)The actor also pointed out that despite the criticism surrounding the passport issue, he has consistently paid taxes in India, noting that people often focus on one controversy while ignoring everything else about a person.

Upcoming films

On the work front, Kumar has a packed slate of releases across genres. He will next be seen in the horror-comedy Bhooth Bangla, directed by Priyadarshan, which is slated to hit theatres on April 10, 2026.He will also appear in the thriller Haiwaan alongside Saif Ali Khan, where Kumar is expected to play a negative role. The film is scheduled for release in August 2026.Additionally, the actor has joined Golmaal 5, directed by Rohit Shetty, marking his first appearance in the popular comedy franchise alongside Ajay Devgn and the original Golmaal gang.Another major project in his lineup is the ensemble comedy Welcome to the Jungle, the third instalment in the Welcome franchise, which is scheduled to release in June 2026.


TOISA 2025 Equestrian Nominees: Celebrating India’s stars in the saddle | More sports News

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TOISA 2025 Equestrian Nominees: Celebrating India’s stars in the saddle | More sports News


TOISA 2025 Equestrian Nominees: Celebrating India’s stars in the saddle
Ashish Limaye (TOI Photo)

The eighth edition of the Times of India Sports Awards will be held on March 21, 2026, in Lucknow, celebrating the achievements of India’s finest athletes across multiple disciplines. The awards recognise performances delivered between January 1 and December 31, 2025, honouring standout displays at global championships and major international competitions. Featuring more than 45 categories, TOISA highlights both established champions and emerging talents who brought pride to the nation through exceptional performances during the year.The winners will be selected by a distinguished jury comprising some of India’s most celebrated sporting icons. Olympic champion Abhinav Bindra, hockey legend PR Sreejesh, former cricket team captain Mithali Raj, Paralympic great Devendra Jhajharia, table tennis stalwart Sharath Kamal and tennis icon Leander Paes will evaluate the nominees across categories, ensuring a credible and expert assessment of excellence in Indian sport.The equestrian nominees reflect India’s growing strength in the discipline on the continental stage. Ashish Limaye made history by winning individual gold in eventing at the FEI Asian Equestrian Championships — India’s first-ever individual gold at the event — and also helped the country secure team silver. Veteran rider Shruti Vora enjoyed an outstanding campaign with three silver medals in dressage disciplines, while Divyakriti Singh played a key role in India’s team dressage silver and continued to rank among Asia’s top riders. Together, their performances highlighted a memorable year for Indian equestrian sport.Here are the nominees for Equestrian at TOISA 2025:Ashish LimayeDate of Birth: November 22, 1993Place of Birth: Pune, MaharashtraSport: EquestrianMajor Achievements in 2025:FEI Asian Equestrian Championships: Gold (Indivual – Eventing), Silver (Team – Eventing)Ashish Limaye spearheaded India’s success in eventing with a landmark performance at the FEI Asian Equestrian Championships, clinching the individual gold medal and etching his name in history as the country’s first-ever individual gold medallist at the event. He also played a pivotal role in guiding India to team silver in eventing, combining forces with Shashank Singh Kataria and Shashank Kanmuri to secure a memorable podium finish for the nation.Shruti VoraDate of Birth: January 6, 1971Place of Birth: Kolkata, West BengalSport: EquestrianMajor Achievements in 2025:FEI Asian Equestrian Championships: Three silver medals (Individual – Dressage; Dressage Intermediate Freestyle-I; Team Dressage)Shruti Vora enjoyed a standout 2025 season, highlighted by an impressive medal haul at the FEI Asian Equestrian Championships in Pattaya, Thailand. Competing in dressage, the veteran 55-year-old secured three silver medals — one in the individual event, another in the Intermediate Freestyle-I, and a third in the team competition. Vora combined with Divyakriti Singh and Gaurav Pundir to power India to a podium finish in the team event, capping off a memorable continental campaign.Divyakriti SinghDate of Birth: October 22, 1999Place of Birth: Jaipur, RajasthanSport: EquestrianMajor Achievements in 2025:FEI Asian Equestrian Championships: Silver (Team Dressage)Divyakriti Singh played a pivotal role in India’s silver-medal finish in Team Dressage at the FEI Asian Equestrian Championships, further cementing her place among the country’s most accomplished riders. With this podium finish, she became the only Indian equestrian to have won medals at both the Asian Games and the Asian Championships. Earlier in May 2025, Divyakriti reclaimed the No. 1 ranking in Asia in the Global Dressage Rankings for 2024–25, published by the Fédération Équestre Internationale (FEI), the sport’s global governing body.

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Rohit Shetty birthday 2026: Filmmaker drops Golmaal 5 teaser

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Rohit Shetty birthday 2026: Filmmaker drops Golmaal 5 teaser



Rohit Shetty birthday 2026: Filmmaker drops Golmaal 5 teaser

Filmmaker Rohit Shetty has officially begun filming the much-anticipated comedy sequel Golmaal 5, and a fun behind-the-scenes video from the sets has already created a buzz online. The clip features Akshay Kumar and Ajay Devgn sharing a lighthearted moment, giving fans a glimpse of the lively atmosphere during the film’s shoot.

Rohit Shetty begins shooting days after shooting at his residence

The video, which surfaced on social media, shows Akshay sporting a completely bald look for the film. The actor appears cheerful and energetic as he interacts with the team and his co-star Ajay Devgn. In one playful moment captured on camera, Akshay is seen planting a friendly kiss on Ajay’s cheek, leaving everyone around them laughing. The candid interaction between the two stars quickly caught fans’ attention and began circulating widely online.

The behind-the-scenes clip was shared as filming for the new installment officially began, further increasing excitement around the popular franchise. The announcement confirmed that the latest chapter of the beloved comedy series is now underway, with Akshay Kumar joining the ensemble cast for the upcoming film.

The Golmaal film series, which began with Golmaal: Fun Unlimited in 2006, has become one of Bollywood’s most successful comedy franchises over the years. Known for its slapstick humour, chaotic storylines and ensemble cast, the films have consistently entertained audiences. Ajay Devgn has remained the central face of the franchise since the beginning, playing the straight-faced character Gopal amid a group of eccentric friends.

With Akshay Kumar now entering the Golmaal universe, fans are eager to see how the actor will fit into the comedy ensemble. His entry is expected to bring a fresh dynamic to the story and add a new comic layer to the film’s narrative. The pairing of Akshay and Ajay on screen has already sparked curiosity among fans, who are looking forward to their humorous interactions.

Return of the OGs with Sharman Joshi

The film is also expected to bring back several familiar faces from previous installments. Actors like Arshad Warsi, Tusshar Kapoor, Shreyas Talpade and Kunal Kemmu have long been associated with the franchise, and their quirky characters have played a key role in shaping the chaotic and entertaining tone of the Golmaal films. Sharman Joshi makes return to the franchise with the 5th installment. 

As shooting continues, the viral BTS clip has already heightened excitement among fans eager to see the beloved comedy franchise return to the big screen. With Rohit Shetty directing and Akshay Kumar joining the star-studded cast alongside Ajay Devgn, Golmaal 5 is expected to deliver another round of high-energy humour, playful moments and entertaining on-screen chemistry.

 
 


‘Babar Azam doesn’t have a voice’: Former Pakistan batter cites Virat Kohli example in T20 World Cup rant | Cricket News

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‘Babar Azam doesn’t have a voice’: Former Pakistan batter cites Virat Kohli example in T20 World Cup rant | Cricket News


'Babar Azam doesn't have a voice': Former Pakistan batter cites Virat Kohli example in T20 World Cup rant
Babar Azam and Virat Kohli (Agency Image)

The decision to push Babar Azam down to No.4 during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup created plenty of debate in Pakistan, and the experiment ultimately failed to deliver. The former Pakistan captain endured a difficult campaign as he struggled to accelerate in the middle order throughout the 20-team tournament.The situation worsened as the competition progressed. Babar was not sent out to bat in Pakistan’s must-win group-stage clash against Namibia. Later, he was also left out of the Super 8 fixture against Sri Lanka, a match where the Green Shirts had to secure a victory by at least 65 runs to keep their semi-final hopes alive.

IPL 2026 should be audition for the next India T20I captain

Former Pakistan batter Basit Ali has now criticised how the situation was handled, saying Babar should have strongly opposed the decision to move him down the order. According to Basit, the batter should have challenged head coach Mike Hesson rather than accepting the role.Speaking on the ‘Game Plan’ show, Basit also cited Virat Kohli as an example while discussing how top players sometimes take strong stands.

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Do you agree with Basit Ali’s view on player voicing their concerns?

“Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman don’t have a voice. How come they agreed to bat in the middle order?” said Basit on the ‘Game Plan’ show.“I just have one example. Virat Kohli was not made the captain, he said, ‘Okay bye’. Virat Kohli. He took the retirement; he should have been made the captain for the England series. He was told that you are not in our scheme of things as far as captaincy goes. He said, ‘Okay, tata, bye-bye.’ He doesn’t have a shortage of money. Babar should not have accepted the decision to bat at No.4. If I were his close aide, I would have told him to refuse. You just threw him under the bus,” he added.Kohli had announced his retirement from Test cricket in May last year. However, there has been no official confirmation that the decision was linked to captaincy matters. Following the retirements of Rohit Sharma and Kohli, Shubman Gill was appointed India’s Test captain. Under his leadership, India went on to draw the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy against England.Meanwhile, former Pakistan wicketkeeper-batter Kamran Akmal disagreed with Basit’s view, arguing that players rarely challenge team management, especially when they are struggling for form.“No player dares to go against the team management. I have just seen Younis Khan being adamant about his position. As a player, you just cannot say that. You will be thrown into the sidelines if you say such things,” said Akmal.“When the form is not there, no player says such things. Before the Champions Trophy, his form was not there. He had left the captaincy. Big players even agree to such things. The form is very important. When form is not there, a batter would even agree to bat at No.8,” he added.

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Lavanya Tripathi says Tamil director made her uncomfortable, filed case when she said no: ‘Cried because of pressure’

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Lavanya Tripathi says Tamil director made her uncomfortable, filed case when she said no: ‘Cried because of pressure’


Actor Lavanya Tripathi recently attended an Open House With Fans session by Mahi Originals, where she answered fan questions. She got candid about how a Tamil director once made her uncomfortable and later filed a case against her for turning down the movie. The actor stated that she had never spoken about the incident or sought anybody’s help till now.

Lavanya Tripathi says she has never spoken about this incident or taken anybody's help for it.
Lavanya Tripathi says she has never spoken about this incident or taken anybody’s help for it.

Lavanya Tripathi recalls harrowing experience with Tamil director

Lavanya was asked by a fan if there were moments in her life when she cried her heart out at home and yet functioned normally the next day as if nothing had happened.

Claiming that it has happened numerous times, she said, “As a single woman and no family background, sometimes there’s no one to help you. So, you’re like, okay, what can I do? There was a time, there was a movie in Tamil which I was supposed to do. And I felt something was not right with the director. Maybe, I can be wrong but I just didn’t feel comfortable and nenu no cheppesanu (I said no). After that, they kind of put a case on me and they were putting out wrong articles about me in the newspaper.”

“Nenu ipudu cheptunanu, gaani aa time ki nenu evariki cheppaledu. Nenu evariki help adagaledu (I am talking about it now, but back then, I told this to no one or ask for anyone’s help). But because of that pressure, one day I just came home, and I was just crying. Normally, I don’t cry. After crying, I got up, made myself some tea and chilled. Crying is good, no problem, but I have faced such situations. All these times, they make you very strong,” stated Lavanya as her fans clapped for her.

She also said that this incident happened almost a decade ago. When asked how she coped, she replied, “All I did was say no because I wasn’t comfortable working with the person. They troubled me a lot afterwards, too. If you’re going through hell, keep going.”

About Lavanya Tripathi

Lavanya began her career with the 2012 Hanu Raghavapudi hit Andala Rakshasi, which also starred Rahul Ravindran and Naveen Chandra. Her Tamil debut was with the 2014 film Bramman, directed by Socrates and starring Sasikumar and Naveen. Lavanya was last seen in the Tamil film Thanal with Atharvaa. She has Sathi Leelavathi with Dev Mohan lined up.

Lavanya married her co-star from the 2017 film Mister, Varun Tej Konidela, in 2023. The couple kept their dating under wraps and quietly got engaged in June before their wedding in November. Their son, Vaayuv, was born in November 2025.