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Indian-owned Sunrisers face backlash after signing Pakistan’s Abrar Ahmed | Cricket News

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Indian-owned Sunrisers face backlash after signing Pakistan’s Abrar Ahmed | Cricket News


Post announcing Abrar’s signing was met with thousands angrily questioning patriotism of the Indian owners.

Sunrisers Leeds have faced a fierce social media backlash after the Indian-owned Hundred franchise signed Pakistan spinner Abrar Ahmed this week.

A longstanding political standoff between India and Pakistan means the two nations only play each other in major global cricket tournaments.

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Cricketers from Pakistan have not featured in the Indian Premier League (IPL) since 2009 because of the deep-seated diplomatic tensions between the two nations.

There was speculation that the Pakistan players involved in this week’s inaugural Hundred auction in London would be subject to a “shadow ban”, with the IPL-affiliated teams refusing to bid for them.

Four of the franchises – MI London, Manchester Super Giants, Sunrisers Leeds and Southern Brave – are at least part-owned by companies that control IPL teams.

But the Sunrisers, based in the northern English city of Leeds, clinched a deal for Pakistani leg-spinner Abrar, paying 190,000 pounds ($252,000) for his services.

A post announcing Abrar’s signing was met with thousands of replies angrily questioning the patriotism of the Indian owners.

Some highlighted that Abrar had mocked India on social media after the conflict between the two countries in May 2025, and had called for fans to boycott IPL side Sunrisers Hyderabad.

Usman Tariq, the only other Pakistani player bought in the auction, was picked up by the United States-backed Birmingham Phoenix.

The only two Pakistan players in Wednesday’s women’s auction, Fatima Sana and Sadia Iqbal, went unsold.

The England and Wales Cricket Board last month issued a statement saying all eight of the city-based franchises in the 100-ball-a-side competition were committed to selection based solely on performances.

But Sunrisers have been subject to fierce criticism from some Indian cricket fans after signing Ahmed.

The @SunrisersLeeds account on X was suspended on Thursday. It was up and running again on Friday with a new follower base, but comments again focused heavily on Abrar’s signing.

The same was true of the club’s Instagram feed, while the issue spilled over onto the accounts of Sunrisers Hyderabad, also owned by the Sun Group media conglomerate.


Nimrat Kaur seeks blessings at Kashi Vishwanath temple on her birthday

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Nimrat Kaur seeks blessings at Kashi Vishwanath temple on her birthday



Nimrat Kaur seeks blessings at Kashi Vishwanath temple on her birthday

Actress Nimrat Kaur celebrated her birthday with Baba Vishwanath’s blessings at the Kashi Vishwanath temple. The `Airlift` actress visited one of the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines for the first time. During her religious visit, Nimrat even took part in the Mangal Aarti to seek blessings on her special day. She took to her official Instagram handle and published a couple of pictures from her unique birthday celebration. Posing in a pink saree, Nimrat was seen offering her prayers to Lord Shiva.

Expressing her gratitude for such a divine start to her new year, she penned the caption, “Brought in my birthday in with Baba Vishwanath’s blessings at the Mangal Aarti this morning. So grateful for all the love, warmth and all your kind wishes. Whatever the universe has planned, there couldn’t have been a better start to my new year, my first ever time in Banaras…My heart is full, thank you life…Har Har Mahadev (sic)”.

 
 
 
 
 
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A post shared by Nimrat Kaur (@nimratofficial)

In one of the photos, `The Lunchbox` actress was seen enjoying the beautiful sunset while relishing her tea on the balcony of her room. The last still was of the birthday girl on a boat with only water before her. Nimrat likes to include her Insta Fam in such special moments of her life through her social media posts. On January 23, she paid a heartfelt tribute to her late father, Major Bhupender Singh, 32 years after his martyrdom while serving the nation. Nimrat said that her father lived and gave his life with utmost courage and dignity.

“It’s been 32 years since Papa left us in the service of the nation. A self-made son of the soil, a peerless husband and father, and beyond everything, a lion-heart soldier who feared nothing, not even death, we were told, in his final moments,” her post read. Nimrat also thanked the Indian Army and the administration for immortalising her father`s name in Ganganagar, the land he was born in, and in the Kashmir Valley, where he was martyred.

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




Coleen does it in style!

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Coleen does it in style!



Coleen does it in style!

Former England footballer and Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney’s wife Coleen’s newly launched fashion collection has garnered a lot of affection from fans.

Coleen, an English media personality and author, launched her apparel range ‘By Coleen’ in partnership with fashion brand Primark after signing a multi-million pound deal. The clothes feature clean silhouettes and warm colours at affordable pricing. Coleen herself modelled some pieces from her collection via an Instagram post which received loads of praise. 

Gushing over the collection, one user wrote: “The quality and price is amazing,” while another said: “Love every single piece.” A third added: “It’s not only stylish but also affordable and that’s the best part.” Rooney and Coleen have been married since 2008.

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


Rishabh Pant warns Ayush Badoni while handing over a bat of his choice: ‘Todiyo mat yeh’

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Rishabh Pant warns Ayush Badoni while handing over a bat of his choice: ‘Todiyo mat yeh’


Rishabh Pant and Ayush Badoni gave Lucknow Super Giants fans an easy, revealing pre-season moment ahead of IPL 2026, with a camp video showing the LSG captain handing one of his bats to the younger batter and saying, “Short-handle hai, tujhe pasand hai waisa. Todiyo mat yeh, bhot acha bat hai.” It was delivered in jest, but the exchange offered a small insight into the equation between two important Indian players in a squad that will again enter the season with expectations.

Ayush Badoni playing for LSG. (AFP)
Ayush Badoni playing for LSG. (AFP)

Rishabh Pant is the biggest figure in this LSG setup. He is the franchise captain for IPL 2026 and remains one of the most recognisable Indian players in the tournament, both for his wicketkeeping and his ability to shift a game with the bat. Badoni, meanwhile, has grown from an exciting youngster into a genuine middle-order option for Lucknow. The two players would hope to contribute heavily in a season that LSG hopes would bring them their maiden IPL title.

That is why the clip carries interest beyond simple social-media engagement. Ayush Badoni is not just a fringe squad member receiving a senior’s bat for the cameras. He has built a role for himself at Lucknow and also moved closer to the national conversation after receiving a maiden India ODI call-up earlier this year as Washington Sundar’s replacement for the second and third ODIs against New Zealand. For a player in that stage of his career, a gesture like this lands as both a friendly dressing-room moment and a sign of standing within the group.

Lucknow head into IPL 2026 with plenty to sort out and enough talent to matter. Pant will naturally be central to how the side is judged, but Badoni’s role also remains significant because he helps hold together the Indian core around the bigger names. Before the start of a season, such moments can still say something about the mood of a squad. In this case, LSG got exactly what franchises want from pre-season content: a relaxed captain, a rising Indian batter, and a snapshot of team chemistry before the real scrutiny begins.

With Lucknow set to open their IPL 2026 campaign against Delhi Capitals, the Pant-Badoni exchange has worked as a neat early reminder of the season’s wider subplot. Pant will carry the spotlight, Badoni will look to keep pushing upward, and LSG will hope the good humour seen in camp is followed by the kind of consistency they have often threatened, but not always sustained, on the field.


‘Aditya Dhar came to me for Dhurandhar 2’: Anil Kapoor regrets rejecting cameo in Ranveer Singh film, reveals reason

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‘Aditya Dhar came to me for Dhurandhar 2’: Anil Kapoor regrets rejecting cameo in Ranveer Singh film, reveals reason


The anticipation for Aditya Dhar’s Dhurandhar: The Revenge began back in December last year, right after Dhurandhar took theatres by storm. And now that the film’s release is right around the corner, the excitement amongst audiences is unbelievable. Multiple fan theories are doing the rounds on the internet, with new reports of rumoured cameos floating around. Yami Gautam is expected to be seen in an action packed sequence in a hospital whereas Akshaye Khanna is reported to show up in flashback scenes. There was also news about Aditya’s Uri: The Surgical Strike star Vicky Kaushal joining Ranveer onscreen for a bit. Well, amid all the buzz, actor Anil Kapoor has now revealed that he too was approached for a special cameo in Dhurandhar 2.

Ranveer Singh and Anil Kapoor
Ranveer Singh and Anil Kapoor

Starring Ranveer Singh, Arjun Rampal, Sara Arjun, Rakesh Bedi, Sanjay Dutt and R Madhavan in the lead, Dhurandhar: The Revenge is slated to arrive in theatres next week on March 19. Ahead of the same, during his session titled The Ageless Rebel: Rewriting the Rules of Stardom on Day 1 of India Today Conclave Delhi 2026, Anil Kapoor revealed, “Yes, Aditya came to me for Dhurandhar 2. He wanted me to do a small cameo in the film. But the reason I am what I am today is because of my professionalism and my commitment. That’s very important–only talent cannot make you what you are.”

Revealing the reason behind rejecting the film, and expressing regret over the same, Anil shared, “At that time, I had already committed those dates to another filmmaker. I told Aditya, ‘I would have loved to do this cameo, but I’m already committed.’ He is releasing the film now, and it’s a fantastic film. It’s my loss, but it’s okay.” However, the actor went on to add, “At least I know in the back of my mind that it can happen to him as well — there could be another filmmaker who has just delivered a big blockbuster and offers me something when I’m already committed to Aditya. If I then go and do that film and cancel his dates, that would be completely unprofessional. So yes, he did offer me the role, and hopefully we will work together in the future.”

On March 12, a week before Dhurandhar 2’s release, Aditya Dhar celebrated his 43rd birthday. Sharing a sweet message for the audience, the filmmaker wrote: “Reading all your messages, tweets, stories and all the ‘peak detailing by Aditya Dhar’ memes, my heart is full. I wish I could personally respond to each one of you, but please know how deeply I value all your love and encouragement. I truly feel blessed beyond belief. None of this is something I take for granted. In an industry where nothing is guaranteed and every film is a leap of faith, the trust of the audience means everything. If this year has taught me anything, it is that never lose belief in your dreams, however big they might be. Show up with honesty. Give your work everything you have. And the universe will respond. Trust that every small step and every struggle is slowly leading us exactly where we are meant to be. Back to work now. See you at the movies!!!”


‘We’re going to create … ‘: Suryakumar Yadav pens emotional note | Cricket News

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‘We’re going to create … ‘: Suryakumar Yadav pens emotional note | Cricket News


'We're going to create ... ': Suryakumar Yadav pens emotional note
Suryakumar Yadav (AFP Photo)

NEW DELHI: India’s T20I skipper Suryakumar Yadav marked a special milestone as he completed five years in international cricket. His journey with the national team began on March 14, 2022, when he made his debut against England at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Coincidentally, it was the same venue where he recently led India to their historic third ICC Men’s T20 World Cup title after defeating New Zealand earlier this week.“5 years ago, a dream turned into reality. Wearing the India jersey is a feeling I can still never fully put into words. Here’s to many more memories that we’re going to create, for team India,” he wrote on X.

Suryakumar Yadav receives grand homecoming after India’s T20 World Cup win

Suryakumar’s path to the international stage was far from straightforward. Unlike many cricketers who break through at a young age, he spent several years proving his credentials in domestic cricket and the Indian Premier League before finally earning a call-up to the national side. Once he got the opportunity, he made sure to make an immediate and lasting impact.One of the standout moments of his career came during the 2024 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in the United States and the West Indies. As an important member of the squad, he played a key role in helping India end their long wait for a global ICC title.Since his debut, the Mumbai-born batter has emerged as one of the most destructive players in the shortest format. In 113 T20 Internationals, he has amassed 3,272 runs at an average of 36.35 while striking at an impressive rate of 162.94, numbers that reflect the flair and unpredictability he brings whenever he walks out to bat.His tally includes four centuries and 25 half-centuries. Among them, his explosive 117 against England in Nottingham on July 10, 2022, remains one of the most memorable innings of his career, reinforcing his reputation as an innovative and fearless T20 batter.Apart from his batting exploits, Suryakumar has also developed into a dependable leader for India in the format. In 52 T20 Internationals as captain, he has led the team to 40 wins while suffering only eight defeats, underlining the confident and attacking approach he brings to the role.

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'Dhurandhar 2' crosses USD 4 million on opening weekend

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'Dhurandhar 2' crosses USD 4 million on opening weekend


'Dhurandhar 2: The Revenge' advance bookings: Ranveer Singh starrer crosses USD 4 million on opening weekend  in North America

The advance sales for ‘Dhurandhar: The Revenge’, directed by Aditya Dhar and starring Ranveer Singh in the lead, is showing no signs of slowing down at the North American box office. News reports indicate that the film has already crossed the USD 4 million mark in opening weekend advance sales as it gears up to take the box office by storm.

‘Dhurandhar: The Revenge’ crosses USD 1 million mark

The sequel to the 2025 blockbuster ‘Dhurandhar’ is set to begin its box office run on a strong note. As per a report on Venky box office, the film’s total advance collections for North American premiere shows have managed to cross the USD 1 million mark from a limited release. The film has reportedly earned an estimated USD 1,072,512 across 690 locations and 1,765 shows.Meanwhile, the total North America premiere advances currently stand at approximately USD 1.31 million.

‘Dhurandhar: The Revenge’ set for USD 4 million weekend

The opening day collections, including the premiere shows on March 18, have recorded advance sales of around USD 2 million. Meanwhile, the total first weekend collections have reached an estimated USD 4.05 million. With five days still to go before the film’s release worldwide, it remains to be seen how much more the movie can add to its advance ticket sales and whether it will set new records at the box office.

Highest debut weekend collections for an Indian film

The current benchmark for the biggest overseas opening weekend by an Indian film is held by ‘Pathaan’, starring Shah Rukh Khan. The action film grossed around USD 26 million internationally during its opening weekend.In recent years, several Indian films have recorded strong overseas debuts. ‘Baahubali 2: The Conclusion’ collected around USD 22.5 million in its overseas opening weekend. ‘Jawan’, also starring Shah Rukh Khan, opened to approximately USD 21.5 million overseas and later went on to become the highest-grossing Hindi film worldwide, stated a report on Sacnilk. ‘Pushpa 2: The Rule’ recorded an overseas opening weekend of about USD 19.2 million, while ‘Leo’ debuted overseas with roughly USD 18.2 million. Meanwhile, ‘Kalki 2898 AD’ began its overseas run with an opening of around USD 17.9 million.

About ‘Dhurandhar: The Revenge’

The film, directed by Aditya Dhar, features an ensemble cast including Ranveer Singh, Sanjay Dutt, Sara Arjun, R. Madhavan, Akshaye Khanna, Arjun Rampal, Rakesh Bedi and Yami Gautam.


Rescuers blame weather and 'underprepared skiers' for rise in Alps avalanche deaths

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Rescuers blame weather and 'underprepared skiers' for rise in Alps avalanche deaths



The BBC joins a French Alps rescue team as the number of skiers killed this season passes 100.


What is DME? Scientists look to scale up output to offset LPG supply blow

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What is DME? Scientists look to scale up output to offset LPG supply blow


What is DME? Scientists look to scale up output to offset LPG supply blow

As the Middle East conflict continues to spill across global oil markets, India is looking to expand the production of dimethyl ether (DME), an alternative that could help deal with ongoing LPG disruptions. A government-run research institute is examining ways to boost the output of the fuel, which scientists say could help address supply challenges linked to LPG. The CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory (NCL) has recently established a pilot plant for DME and is now planning to scale up the facility. Researchers at the laboratory told ET that the fuel has the potential to act as an indigenous alternative to liquefied petroleum gas, which is widely used for cooking. The push comes at a time when LPG prices have risen sharply following disturbances in global supply chains.“Substituting LPG with DME does not require any change in the existing infrastructure such as cylinders, gaskets, regulators, hoses or burners,” Ashish Lele, director of NCL told ET.Standards for blending DME with LPG have already been established by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) for domestic, commercial and industrial applications.

What is DME?

DME or Dimethyl ether is produced synthetically from methanol, which can be obtained from dry biomass, coal or even captured carbon dioxide. The fuel shares similar characteristics with LPG and can be blended with liquefied petroleum gas in different proportions. According to scientists involved in the project, replacing LPG with DME would not require modifications to the current cooking fuel infrastructure. Cylinders, gaskets, regulators, hoses and burners already in use would continue to function without changes.


After Main Vaapas Aaunga teaser, Sharvari pens heartfelt message for Imtiaz Ali

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After Main Vaapas Aaunga teaser, Sharvari pens heartfelt message for Imtiaz Ali



After Main Vaapas Aaunga teaser, Sharvari pens heartfelt message for Imtiaz Ali

Bollywood actress Sharvari has expressed her gratitude to filmmaker Imtiaz Ali. The actress is set to headline the upcoming film ‘Main Vaapas Aaunga’ helmed by Imtiaz. On Friday, the actress took to her Instagram, and shared a series of pictures. The first picture is the BTS picture from the sets of the film featuring Imtiaz and her. The second picture is the note that she penned for the director. The third picture is of a masterclass session between Imtiaz Ali and Mani Ratnam.

She wrote, “To say that I have been a huge fan of your cinema would be an understatement. Today as our teaser drops, I can`t help but go back to the day when I attended a masterclass 3 years ago that you were conducting for Mani sir. I sat there in the audience hearing about your craft, your vision, your characters and how you see this beautiful world you create on the big screen”.

 
 
 
 
 
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A post shared by Sharvari 🐯 (@sharvari)

She further mentioned, “I remember I put up a story on Instagram that day manifesting to be a part of your films someday. Little did I know I would see a teaser that ends with ‘A FILM BY IMTIAZ ALI’ which stars MEE. Main Vaapas Aaunga`s journey for me as a young actor who is hungry to be moulded into different lives on screen has been the most fulfilling one only and only because of your encouragement and belief. From the recce to finishing shoot and all the conversations over multiple lunches and dinners will be my most cherished memories. Thankyou sir! You are not just a one of a kind filmmaker but also a person”.

Earlier on Friday, the makers of Imtiaz Ali`s next titled ‘Main Vaapas Aaunga’ have unveiled the first look poster from the drama. The posters dropped on social media give out the vibe for an old school romance, with one of the pictures featuring Sharvani riding a cycle in the middle of the fields, with Vedang Raina running behind her, dressed as a sardar. On the other hand, we see Diljit Dosanjh standing in the middle of the field with a calm expression on his face.

In another one of the photos, Diljit was seen holding a travel cup for a beverage, suggesting his character in the movie might belong to a big city, or even abroad. While it is difficult to make out anything more about the storyline from the first look posters, it seems like ‘Main Vaapas Aaunga’ is set in two different timelines.

The makers will also be releasing the teaser for the drama on Friday. Featuring Diljit, Naseeruddin Shah, Vedang, and Sharvari as the primary cast, the film promises a beautiful story of love and longing. ‘Main Vaapas Aaunga’ is set to debut in cinemas on June 12, 2026.

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