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India crash out of AFC Women’s Asian Cup without a single point after 1-3 loss to Chinese Taipei | Football News

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India crash out of AFC Women’s Asian Cup without a single point after 1-3 loss to Chinese Taipei | Football News


India crash out of AFC Women’s Asian Cup without a single point after 1-3 loss to Chinese Taipei
India vs Chinese Taipei (Photo from @IndianFootball on X)

NEW DELHI: India crashed out of the AFC Women’s Asian Cup after losing 1-3 to Chinese Taipei in a crucial group-stage match on Tuesday. The result ended India’s campaign despite the team dominating large portions of the game and creating several chances but failing to convert them.India needed to win by at least two goals to keep their hopes alive, especially after earlier defeats to Japan and Vietnam. Although Japan beat Vietnam 4-0 in the other match, India could not produce the required result.Chinese Taipei took the lead early in the 12th minute after a defensive error. A poor back pass from Sanju left goalkeeper Elangbam Panthoi Chanu out of position, allowing Y H Su to score into an empty net. India responded with attacking intent and eventually equalised in the 39th minute, when Manisha Kalyan unleashed a powerful long-range strike to score India’s only goal.However, just before half-time, Chinese Taipei regained the lead in dramatic fashion. After Pyari Xaxa handled the ball in the box, a penalty was awarded. Although Y Y Hsu struck the post, the rebound deflected off Panthoi and rolled into the net, putting India behind again.India pushed hard in the second half and created several opportunities but failed to finish them. Their attacking efforts left gaps at the back, which Chinese Taipei exploited in the 77th minute when Yu-Chin Chen ran through the defence and scored the third goal after rounding the goalkeeper.India had a few late chances through Sanfida and Manisha, but the Chinese Taipei goalkeeper made crucial saves to keep them out. The defeat meant India exited the tournament despite qualifying for the competition on merit for the first time and putting up a spirited performance.


Ajith returns safely to Chennai after being stranded in Dubai

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Ajith returns safely to Chennai after being stranded in Dubai


Ajith Kumar returns safely to Chennai after being stranded in Dubai amid Middle East conflict
Actor Ajith Kumar has safely returned to Chennai after travel disruptions in the Gulf region left several passengers stranded due to sudden airspace closures. The actor was spotted arriving at the Chennai airport, with videos of his return quickly circulating on social media.

Actor Ajith Kumar has safely returned to Chennai after travel disruptions in the Gulf region left several passengers stranded due to sudden airspace closures. The actor was spotted arriving at the Chennai airport, with videos of his return quickly circulating on social media.

Ajith Kumar spotted at Chennai airport after days of uncertainty

In the viral clip, Ajith can be seen walking out of the airport shortly after landing in Chennai. His return comes days after reports suggested that multiple travellers, including film personalities, were stuck in Gulf cities after airlines suspended or rerouted flights.The disruptions had sparked concern among fans, especially after it was reported that Ajith was in the region for his motorsports commitments.

Airspace closures after Israel-US-Iran conflict disrupt flights

The situation escalated after tensions involving Israel, the United States and Iran led to the closure of airspace across parts of the region, including Dubai, Iran and Iraq. As a result, several airlines cancelled or diverted flights, affecting key international routes and leaving passengers waiting for updates at airports.Ajith Kumar was reportedly travelling between Saudi Arabia and Dubai for his professional motorsports engagements when the restrictions came into effect, forcing him to halt his travel plans.Earlier, Ajith’s manager had reassured fans that the actor was safe in Dubai after he was forced to return from the airport due to sudden flight suspensions.The clarification had come after reports about travellers being stranded in the region began circulating online.

Several Indian celebrities share safety updates

Apart from Ajith, several Indian film personalities also took to social media to reassure fans about their safety amid the travel chaos. Among them were Sonal Chauhan, Esha Gupta, Vishnu Manchu, Lara Dutta and Nargis Fakhri, who shared updates from the region. Ajith Kumar, who has been spending significant time in Dubai due to his passion for motorsports, had earlier spoken about relocating to the city. Earlier, the actor revealed that he moved to Dubai to focus more seriously on motorsports, noting that several major racing circuits are based in the region.


T20 WC 2026: Suryakumar reveals Dhoni`s advice before the start of tournament

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T20 WC 2026: Suryakumar reveals Dhoni`s advice before the start of tournament



T20 WC 2026: Suryakumar reveals Dhoni`s advice before the start of tournament

Team India secured a dominating victory by 96 runs over New Zealand in the final of the T20 World Cup 2026.

Following the victory, Team India skipper Suryakumar Yadav revealed that he met legendary captain MS Dhoni before the tournament. The incumbent Indian skipper also said that Dhoni had advised him to play courageously.

“His reaction was amazing. I met him before the tournament. He had advised me on how to play in ICC tournaments. He had told me that we have a fantastic team and we just need to play courageously. Victory would be ours,” he revealed.

Further speaking, Suryakumar said that his next goal will be to win an Olympic gold for India and also added that the “Men in Blue” will put all efforts to clinch the third consecutive T20 World Cup title.

“That is our next goal – to win Olympic gold for India in 2028. T20 World Cup will be held the same year, so we will make all efforts to make a T20 hat-trick,” said the 35-year-old cricketer.

“It feels great to have won the World Cup. India was hosting an ICC Tournament, and if you win in India, it is delightful,” he added.

This was the first time a team successfully defended their shortest-format world title. The “Men in Blue” also became the first team to clinch the title three times (2007, 2024, and 2026). India became the first team to win the T20 World Cup on home soil.

T20 World Cup 2026 Final: Summary

Batting first in the final, the “Men in Blue” posted a mammoth total of 256 runs for the loss of five wickets in 20 overs. Sanju Samson, Abhishek Sharma, and Ishan Kishan smashed half-centuries. Facing 46 balls, Samson scored 89 runs with the help of five boundaries and eight maximums. Abhishek also garnered 52 runs in 21 balls, including six boundaries and three maximums. Ishan smashed 54 runs off 25 deliveries, laced with four boundaries and four maximums. Later, burly all-rounder Shivam Dube also played a fiery cameo of an unbeaten 26 runs in just eight deliveries.

Chasing a target of 256, New Zealand was bowled out for 159 runs in 19 overs. Team India`s lead pacer Jasprit Bumrah returned with figures of four for 15 in four overs. Hardik Pandya, Varun Chakaravarthy, and Abhishek also chipped in with one wicket each.

(With ANI Inputs)


Ridhima Pandit on The 50 controversy: I came to play, not create drama

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Ridhima Pandit on The 50 controversy: I came to play, not create drama



Ridhima Pandit on The 50 controversy: I came to play, not create drama

Reality show The 50 has been grabbing attention with its intense challenges, shifting alliances, and dramatic confrontations among contestants. One of the participants, actress Ridhima Pandit, recently opened up about the controversies surrounding the show in an exclusive conversation. She spoke candidly about her clash with Vanshaj Singh, her disappointment with Krishna Shroff, and her overall experience on the reality series.

Reflecting on her time on the show, Ridhima said she genuinely enjoyed the experience despite the tensions that surfaced during the competition. “I enjoyed. That’s what I’m saying. This show is to be enjoyed by the viewers and by us as players too,” she said. However, she also pointed out that certain situations on the show became unnecessarily unpleasant. “But some people tend to make it ugly. And then they consider you weak.”

Ridhima Pandit addresses the controversy

The actress emphasized that she has always maintained a controversy-free career and does not appreciate being dragged into unnecessary drama. “I am here to say that I have worked incessantly for the past 10-12 years without having a controversy on my name. I do not wish for someone else to use my name for a controversy and enjoy the attention,” she stated. According to her, responding firmly to such situations is sometimes necessary. “And hence, it’s important to give a quick answer to what I’m giving.”

Ridhima also revealed that she was not aware of many pre-existing rivalries among contestants before entering the show. “I didn’t even know. When Rajat and Digvijay also had a fight, I thought, why are they fighting? I don’t even know anything about their past,” she explained. Observing these clashes made her realize how intense reality shows can become. “I thought, hey, these are the trends in reality shows these days. They hit each other and all.”

However, she made it clear that she did not join the show for such conflicts. “Now, I didn’t want to do something like that. I came in to play the games,” she said. Ridhima referenced her earlier appearance on Khatron Ke Khiladi, where she finished as the second runner-up, highlighting her focus on performance. “Because if you’ve seen my journey in Khatron Ke Khiladi, I was the second runner-up for a reason. Because it was purely on physical performance basis.”

On Krishna Shroff backstabbing her

She also expressed frustration that internal alliances often prevented her from participating fully in tasks. “I didn’t get that opportunity. I didn’t get to play the game… it was like, I wasn’t enjoying it. It was taken away from me.”

Speaking about Krishna Shroff, Ridhima said her behaviour was unexpected and disappointing. “No one has the power to trouble anyone. But I would like to say that Krishna’s behavior was very, very shocking,” she said.

Ridhima further claimed that she later discovered Krishna had been speaking negatively about her behind her back. “For me, I just felt like, you were very nice to me on my face. And I have given you no reason to speak ill about me. So, she was saying so many bad words about me behind my back.”

Calling the situation unfortunate, she added, “That was very, very unfortunate that she was speaking ill about me for no reason.” Ridhima concluded by sharing her personal interpretation of the situation. “I personally think she is very entitled. She suffers from some sort of superiority complex, wherein she just wants to bring down people for no reason… she lost in this and I won. She couldn’t tolerate it and she was so competitive. So, this is wrong.”


Aneet Padda NOT headlining Madhubala biopic: Industry source

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Aneet Padda NOT headlining Madhubala biopic: Industry source



Aneet Padda NOT headlining Madhubala biopic: Industry source

Speculation around a biopic on legendary screen icon Madhubala has been circulating online, with certain reports claiming that Aneet Padda would portray the iconic star in the film. However, industry sources have now firmly dismissed these claims.

An industry source clarified that the reports linking Aneet Padda to a Madhubala biopic are completely unfounded. “There is absolutely no truth to the reports currently circulating about Aneet Padda being cast in a Madhubala biopic. The claims are completely baseless,” the source said.

The rumours had sparked conversation among film enthusiasts, given Madhubala’s timeless legacy as one of Indian cinema’s most celebrated stars. However, the source reiterated that the current reports associating Aneet Padda with the project are purely speculative and that no such development is currently underway.

Aneet Padda feels overwhelmed by fans` love

In November 2025, Aneet Padda revealed that the sudden love after Saiyaara feels beautiful but gets overwhelming. She also revealed that she often cries seeing fan edits as she prepares for Shakti Shalini.

During a new interview with Grazia India, the 23-year-old confessed that fame has brought emotional pressure along with appreciation. She shared, “I’m very sensitive. I feel things deeply. So, the responsibility of love, that weight of wanting to do right by the people who support you, can feel pressurising. It’s beautiful, but sometimes, it is a lot.”

Aneet’s fan base has been growing rapidly online, with edits, reels and fan pages celebrating her performances. Discussing the love she receives, she added, “I cry once a week looking at the edits my fans make. The effort, the love, I just hope I can do justice to it.”

About Saiyaara`s success

2025 changed everything for Aneet Padda as she debuted in Mohit Suri’s Saiyaara, produced by YRF. The film became the highest-grossing romantic film in Indian cinema, earning over Rs 580 crore worldwide. Aneet went on to receive widespread praise for her role as a young songwriter battling early-onset Alzheimer`s. The performance and her intensity turned her into an overnight star. 

She debuted with Ahaan Panday, who also debuted with the film. Their chemistry onscreen was undeniable. As a result, there was a lot of frenzy around their pairing. Fan declared them the industry’s next “it” couple, while social media was convinced of their romance. The speculations further gained steam when Karan Johar publicly hinted that the two newcomers might blossom into Bollywood’s most celebrated pairing in the coming years.


LPG supply crunch hit restaurants threatening closures

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LPG supply crunch hit restaurants threatening closures


LPG supply crunch hit restaurants threatening closures

Mumbai: For restaurants across the country, it is not business as usual–a severe crunch of LPG supplies on the back of the West Asia war is posing a threat of temporary closures with many firms having moved to induction cookers to stay afloat and some of them also restricting menu choices. Smaller establishments are already in dire straits. In Chennai, for instance, several small eateries have shut shops, Ravi Muthukrishnan, chairman, Vasanta Bhavan Hotels and president, Channel Hotels Association told TOI. From Chinese to biryani, a lot of items require slow cooking which means more usage of gas–agencies which supply LPG cylinders to restaurants have said that they do not have enough stock of commercial gas cylinders. “LPG cylinders have not been available since the past two days,” said Muthukrishnan. Anjan Chatterjee, founder of Speciality Restaurants which owns brands such as Mainland China and Oh! Calcutta said that Bengaluru and Chennai have been the most impacted markets for the company with certain parts of Delhi and Kolkata also facing supply disruption. For now, the firm is somehow making do with inductions and rice cookers but if the supplies don’t become adequately available in a day or two, restaurants will have to be shut, said Chatterjee. “About 70% of my food is Chinese. For that, we need high pressure gas burners. No gas, no cooking,” Chatterjee said. Companies fear that dwindling business will put pressure on cash flows at a time when final advance tax payments and liquor license renewals are due. “We are assessing all possible options to keep the business floating. Our rents won’t be waived off, salaries, final advance tax payments and liquor license renewals need to be done. Restaurants operate on the basis of monthly cash flows,” said Pawan Shahri, co-founder at Mumbai-based Chrome Asia Hospitality which owns brands such as Gigi and Donna Deli. Debaditya Chaudhury, MD at Chowman said that its restaurants in Mumbai and Bengaluru have started facing supply challenges. This is a concern for restaurant operations which rely heavily on commercial LPG for daily kitchen functioning, said Chaudhury, adding that the firm will look at restricting certain menu items if the situation further escalates. Restaurateur Pranav Rungta which runs outlets in Mumbai said that his Colaba eatery Otoki has stopped non-essential cooking through LPG cylinders. Bulk rice cooking and meals for staff have all moved to electric cookers, said Rungta. “The available commercial LPG cylinders are first being provided to establishments such as schools and hospitals,” said Rudra Pratap, COO at Ahuja Residences which operates boutique business hotels across cities which is reducing menu choices. “The biggest relief is that the major wedding season is behind us,” said Pratap.


‘This isn’t right’: Michael Vaughan fumes as South Africa, West Indies remain stuck in India | Cricket News

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‘This isn’t right’: Michael Vaughan fumes as South Africa, West Indies remain stuck in India | Cricket News


'This isn’t right': Michael Vaughan fumes as South Africa, West Indies remain stuck in India
Michael Vaughan (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)

NEW DELHI: After their early exit from the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, the West Indies national cricket team and South Africa national cricket team have been stuck in Kolkata for more than a week, sparking criticism from former England captain Michael Vaughan.Vaughan questioned why England national cricket team managed to return home quickly while the other teams remain stranded. England were knocked out on March 5 but reportedly flew home within 36 hours. Meanwhile, West Indies were eliminated on March 1 and South Africa on March 4, yet both squads were still waiting in India days later.

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

Frustrated by the situation, Vaughan wrote, “Just to let you all know that the West Indies got knocked out of the World Cup on March 1st .. it’s now March 9th .. they are still stranded in Kolkata .. SA are in the same position .. !!!!!!!!!!!! This isn’t right … England got on a charter 36 hrs after being knocked out .. as should be the case for all teams ..”The issue has also been raised by players such as Quinton de Kock, David Miller, and West Indies coach Daren Sammy, who have expressed concerns about the delay.However, tournament organisers say the problem is not favoritism but travel restrictions. According to the International Cricket Council and Cricket West Indies, the delay is linked to airspace restrictions caused by rising tensions in the Middle East involving the US, Israel, and Iran. Several flight corridors across the Gulf region have been partially closed for safety.Flights heading to the UK can avoid the most affected zones by taking northern routes, which likely helped England return sooner. But routes to the Caribbean and South Africa pass closer to restricted Gulf airspace, leading to cancellations and permit issues. A charter flight planned earlier was reportedly cancelled due to missing overflight approvals.


Syrian ex-colonel in court on crimes against humanity charge

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Syrian ex-colonel in court on crimes against humanity charge



Salem Michel Al-Salem, accused of crimes committed in Syria in 2011 and 2012, has been named for the first time.


Varun Dhawan to take acting break after Border 2 success, wants to spend time with daughter Lara: Report

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Varun Dhawan to take acting break after Border 2 success, wants to spend time with daughter Lara: Report


After enjoying the success of Border 2, where he played Major Hoshiar Singh Dahiya, Varun Dhawan is reportedly planning to take a break from acting after the release and success of Border 2, choosing to prioritise family time with his daughter, Lara.

Varun Dhawan will next romantic comedy Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai, directed by his father David Dhawan, releasing on June 12
Varun Dhawan will next romantic comedy Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai, directed by his father David Dhawan, releasing on June 12

Varun Dhawan to take a break from acting

Varun was recently seen in the much-talked-about sequel to the 1997 classic Border. The film also stars Sunny Deol, Diljit Dosanjh and Ahan Shetty. Following the release of the trailer and songs, the actor initially faced heavy backlash on social media, with several users criticising his smile and questioning whether he was suited for the intense role. However, after the film hit theatres on January 23, Varun managed to win over audiences with his performance as Major Hoshiar Singh Dahiya, PVC, earning praise despite the earlier criticism.

According to a report by Filmfare, the actor is now considering stepping away from work for a while to focus on family life. “Varun Dhawan is taking a long break after the release of Border 2. He is keen on spending more time with his family, especially his daughter. He is eager to take the break to be with Lara,” a source told Filmfare.

Varun still has Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai lined up

Varun still has a film lined up for release. His upcoming romantic comedy Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai will see him sharing screen space with Pooja Hegde and Mrunal Thakur. The film is directed by his father, David Dhawan. The film was initially scheduled to release on June 5 but has now been postponed to June 12 to avoid a box-office clash with Toxic A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups starring Yash, which is set to release on June 4.

Interestingly, the film will also feature a remixed version of the iconic song Hai Jawaani To Ishq Hona Hai, originally from Biwi No 1. The original track starred Salman Khan, Sushmita Sen, Karisma Kapoor, Anil Kapoor and Tabu, and was sung by Shankar Mahadevan with Hema Sardesai.

About Border 2’s success

Border 2 is a large-scale war drama directed by Anurag Singh and serves as the sequel to the 1997 cult classic Border. The film follows a group of Indian soldiers posted at the border during the 1971 India-Pakistan war, highlighting their bravery, sacrifices and emotional struggles as they defend the nation during intense battle situations. Released on January 23, 2026, during the Republic Day weekend, the film became a major box-office success, earning around ₹432 crore worldwide and ranking among the highest-grossing Hindi films of 2026 to date.


IPL 2026 calendar stalled by state polls, partial schedule soon: BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia

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IPL 2026 calendar stalled by state polls, partial schedule soon: BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia


BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia said the schedule for the upcoming Indian Premier League season will be announced within the next two to three days. He explained that the board is waiting for clarity on election dates in a few states before locking in the fixtures. Saikia also noted that only a partial schedule will be released initially, covering the first 20 days of the tournament. The remaining fixtures will be announced later during the season once logistical and administrative details are fully sorted.

BCCI awaits election dates to announce IPL schedule for first 20 days: Devajit Saikia (Raju Shinde)
BCCI awaits election dates to announce IPL schedule for first 20 days: Devajit Saikia (Raju Shinde)

“We will announce the first 20-day schedule of IPL in 2 or 3 days after considering the election dates in a few states, and will announce the rest of the tournament schedule later,” Saikia said to ANI.

The announcement of the tournament’s schedule will be in two phases, with state assembly elections in Assam, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala scheduled for the coming months.

Meanwhile, the 2026 season is expected to kick off on March 28.

RCB to play their home matches at M Chinnaswamy Stadium

Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru confirmed their home venue split for the upcoming Indian Premier League season on Tuesday. Five matches will be staged at M Chinnaswamy Stadium, while the remaining two home fixtures are set to be held at Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium, Raipur.

Also Read – ‘MS Dhoni told Suryakumar Yadav how to approach’: India skipper reveals key chat before T20 World Cup

The update puts to rest uncertainty over the franchise’s return to its primary base after last season’s tragic crowd crush that claimed 11 lives during celebrations of their maiden title. In the aftermath of the incident, the Bengaluru venue was kept out of major domestic tournaments, including the Ranji Trophy, Vijay Hazare Trophy, and the Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20, amid safety reviews and administrative caution.

KSCA chief and former India pacer Venkatesh Prasad has already declared that the M Chinnaswamy Stadium will also be hosting the opening match and final of the season.

“For me personally, it’s a huge achievement. Probably this is much bigger than my five-wicket haul against England at Lords,” Prasad said.

“It’s a pleasure to announce that they (RCB) have agreed to play five games in Bengaluru. The opening game and the opening ceremony will be staged here, and the play-off will also be played in Bangalore. The biggest news is that the final of IPL will also be played in Bangalore,” he added.