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Ravi Shastri Backs India as Favourites for Champions Trophy Final Against New Zealand

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Ravi Shastri Backs India as Favourites for Champions Trophy Final Against New Zealand

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has tipped India as the favourites in Sunday’s Champions Trophy final against New Zealand, but acknowledged that the margin of advantage is minimal, given the Black Caps’ formidable track record in ICC tournaments.

India, unbeaten throughout the tournament, stormed into the final after defeating Australia in the semifinal. New Zealand, who finished second in Group A behind India, secured their spot with a dominant victory over South Africa in Lahore.

“If Any Team Can Beat India, It’s New Zealand” – Shastri

Speaking on ‘The ICC Review’, Shastri emphasized that New Zealand remains a strong contender.

“India start as favourites, but only just. If there’s one team that can beat India, it’s New Zealand.”

The final will be a rematch of the 2000 Champions Trophy final, where New Zealand triumphed by four wickets in Nairobi.

Key Players to Watch Out For

Shastri highlighted four New Zealand players who could have a decisive impact:
🔹 Rachin Ravindra – “Immensely talented, with exceptional fluency at the crease.”
🔹 Kane Williamson – “Brings stability and a calmness akin to a saint.”
🔹 Mitchell Santner – “An intelligent leader with great tactical awareness.”
🔹 Glenn Phillips – “Could be the X-factor with his all-round abilities.”

For India, Shastri pointed out Virat Kohli’s current form as a potential game-changer, while also acknowledging Williamson’s ability to seize crucial moments.

“When these guys get going, they are trouble. If you let them get their first 10-15 runs, they become doubly dangerous.”

Rachin Ravindra: A Rising Star

At just 25, Ravindra has already smashed five centuries in ICC 50-over tournaments, making him the youngest to achieve this milestone.

“I love the way he moves in the crease. His fluency is incredible. He’s either forward, back, cutting, sweeping—he plays quicks well and has a strong temperament.”

Williamson’s Leadership and Composure

Shastri lauded Williamson’s impact, especially his recent performances: 81 against India and 102 against South Africa.

“He’s like a saint, a sage meditating. He has a no-nonsense approach and supreme footwork, much like Joe Root and Kohli.”

Santner’s Captaincy and Glenn Phillips’ X-Factor

Shastri credited Santner for leading New Zealand efficiently in his first ICC event as captain.

“Captaincy suits him. He’s a smart reader of the game, and it adds an edge to his batting and bowling.”

He also highlighted Glenn Phillips as a potential Player of the Match, given his ability to change games with both bat and ball.

Shastri’s Player of the Match Predictions

🔹 India – Axar Patel or Ravindra Jadeja (all-round performance)
🔹 New Zealand – Glenn Phillips (“Could deliver a match-turning cameo or take crucial wickets.”)

With both teams stacked with match-winners, Sunday’s Champions Trophy final promises to be an electrifying encounter. 🏆🔥

133 Officer Cadets Commissioned into Indian Army at OTA Passing Out Parade

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133 Officer Cadets Commissioned into Indian Army at OTA Passing Out Parade

In a grand ceremony held at the Officers Training Academy (OTA) in Chennai on Saturday, 133 officer cadets, including 24 women, were commissioned into the Indian Army at the conclusion of their rigorous training. The prestigious Passing Out Parade (POP) took place at the revered Parameswaran Drill Square, marking the successful completion of the Short Service Commission (SSC) and equivalent courses, a Defence press release stated.

Additionally, the event saw the graduation of five male and seven female foreign officer cadets from five friendly foreign nations, further strengthening international military cooperation and camaraderie.

The Passing Out Parade was reviewed by Lieutenant General Johnson P Mathew, Chief of Integrated Defence Staff, New Delhi, who also presented the Sword of Honour, OTA Gold Medal, and other prestigious awards to outstanding cadets.

Addressing the newly commissioned officers, Lt. Gen. Mathew praised their dedication and perseverance. He urged them to uphold the core values of the Indian Army—selfless service to the nation, unwavering commitment, and pursuit of excellence in all endeavors.

Following the parade, the Pipping Ceremony took place, where the cadets took their solemn oath of allegiance to the Constitution of India and pledged to safeguard the nation at all costs.

The event showcased the discipline, resilience, and high standards of training imparted at OTA, reaffirming its role in shaping future leaders of the Indian Army.

ED Seizes Private Jet in Rs 850 Crore Ponzi Scheme Probe

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ED Seizes Private Jet in Rs 850 Crore Ponzi Scheme Probe

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has seized a private jet worth approximately Rs 14 crore in connection with a money laundering investigation against Hyderabad-based Falcon Group (Capital Protection Force Pvt. Ltd.) and its promoters. The company and its chairman, Amar Deep Kumar, are accused of defrauding investors of crores of rupees through a Ponzi scheme, official sources confirmed on Saturday.

The case stems from a local police FIR against Falcon Group, its CMD Amar Deep Kumar, and several others. According to sources, Kumar fled the country using the same jet before authorities could take action. Efforts to contact him or his company for a response have been unsuccessful.

Officials from the ED’s Hyderabad office discovered that the 8-seater business jet, identified as ‘N935H Hawker 800A’, landed at Hyderabad’s Shamshabad international airport on Friday. The aircraft, purchased for around USD 1.6 million in 2024, was owned by Kumar’s private charter company, Prestige Jets Inc.

A search of the jet was conducted under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), during which the ED recorded statements from the flight crew and several close associates of Kumar who were present at the time. Based on their findings, officials seized the aircraft, suspecting it was acquired using illicit funds from the alleged Ponzi scheme.

The ED sought a general declaration regarding the jet’s movements from the Customs department, which revealed that Kumar, along with another individual, had left the country onboard the aircraft on January 22.

With the total fraud estimated at Rs 850 crore, the ED has launched a full-scale investigation into the case.

Lieutenant Governor Inaugurates 3rd Edition of Tawi Festival at Amar Mahal Palace

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Lieutenant Governor Inaugurates 3rd Edition of Tawi Festival at Amar Mahal Palace

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha inaugurated the 3rd edition of the Tawi Festival, organized by the Hari Tara Charitable Trust (HTCT), at the historic Amar Mahal Palace, Jammu. The event also marked the commencement of the Golden Jubilee celebrations, commemorating 50 years of the Amar Mahal Museum and Library.

In his address, the Lieutenant Governor congratulated Dr. Karan Singh and the entire team associated with HTCT for organizing the prestigious festival. He praised the event for bringing together experts and practitioners from diverse fields to share new ideas and insights in art, literature, and history.

The Lieutenant Governor underscored the invaluable role of artists and litterateurs in shaping society and enriching global knowledge platforms. “Art is a vital element in fostering an enlightened society and nurturing citizens with creativity and values. Just as science and technology have revolutionized human civilization, a rich and vibrant tradition of art and culture is essential for a balanced and harmonious world,” he stated.

Emphasizing the need for a fine balance between technology and the arts, the Lieutenant Governor highlighted that scientific advancements are indispensable for progress, but the presence of artists and spiritualists is equally significant for preserving cultural identity and moral values.

Reaffirming the government’s commitment to the vision of “Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi,” the Lieutenant Governor stressed the importance of promoting education rooted in local culture, traditional knowledge, and ethical values. He also outlined the government’s efforts to preserve and showcase Jammu & Kashmir’s artistic, cultural, and linguistic heritage.

Former Union Minister and Chairman of the Hari Tara Charitable Trust, Dr. Karan Singh, lauded the Tawi Festival as a vital initiative in preserving and promoting the rich cultural legacy of Jammu & Kashmir. He emphasized the role of such events in fostering unity, communal harmony, and pride among the people, ensuring that the region’s diverse traditions and art forms are celebrated and passed on to future generations.

The event witnessed the presence of several distinguished guests, including Vikramaditya Singh, Ajatshatru Singh, Dr. Jyotsna Singh, Ritu Singh, Martand Singh, and Ranvijay Singh. Senior officials from the police and civil administration, along with renowned artists, also graced the occasion, making the festival a grand celebration of art and culture.

Schools reopen in Chenab Valley after 87 days of winter vacation, school staff welcome students

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Schools reopen in Chenab Valley after 87 days of winter vacation, school staff welcome students

By Raja Rehber Jamal

Bhaderwah, Mar 07: Coming into charm again, all the government as well recognised private educational institutions reopened on Friday after about three-months long winter vacations.

As schools reopened their doors, hustle and bustle was seen on roads with buses plying since early morning to ferry students from their homes to schools. Also, at various places, parents were seen accompanying their children, mostly kindergarten students, who had their first day at school on Friday.

Like Kashmir, Schools in Doda, Kishtwar and Ramban districts of Chenab Valley reopened today after about 3 months long winter vacation.

Dressed in their uniforms, the students resumed schooling today after 87 days of vacations.

Schools in the Doda, Kishtwar and Ramban district close in December every year on the pattern of Kashmir valley for winter vacation and reopen on 1 March next year. However, due to inclement weather conditions, the vacations was further extended this year till March 6.

At Bhaderwah, Principal Government Higher Secondary School Bhaderwah Dr Nazir Ahmed, Teacher Arif Rana, Principal Blue Ribbon Higher Secondary School Swarn Singh Jamwal and other staff along with SDPO Bhaderwah Shoket Ali and SHO Bhaderwah Sandeep Parihar welcomed students on their first day of school.

The students were eager to get to school after staying home for more than 87 days. “I want to see my classmates, I cannot wait to reach school,” , a primary school student Aisha Imtiyaz, said after reaching school.

The weather had mostly been dry this winter but in end of February there was good spell of snow and rain.

At present, the temperature in Bhaderwah,Doda, Ramban, Kishtwar, Batote is 10 degrees above the normal and is expected to rise in the coming days.

Dr Nazir Ahmed Principal Government Higher Secondary School Bhaderwah and SDPO Bhaderwah Shoket Ali extended best wishes to the students and teachers on the re-opening of schools

National Conference Slams BJP Over Article 370, Statehood, and Governance

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National Conference Slams BJP Over Article 370, Statehood, and Governance

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah launched a scathing attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) over its stand on Article 370, the legacy of the Maharaja, and the use of the Public Safety Act (PSA). Addressing the Assembly during the debate on the Motion of Thanks to the Lieutenant Governor’s Address, Abdullah questioned the BJP on whether abrogating Article 370 had resolved the issues in Jammu and Kashmir, citing a rise in terrorism in the region.

Statehood Will Be Restored

Expressing confidence that Jammu and Kashmir will regain its statehood within a year, Abdullah stated, “Hopefully, next year, it will be the Governor who will deliver the address to the Legislature.” He assured that his party, the National Conference (NC), would fulfill all its promises within five years.

Questioning BJP’s Claims on Development

Responding to the speech of Leader of Opposition Sunil Sharma, Abdullah challenged the BJP’s narrative on development post-Article 370 abrogation. He questioned whether projects like AIIMS, IIT, IIM, and the Ring Road could not have been executed without revoking special status. He pointed out that these projects were initiated before 2019.

Terrorism and Article 370

Referring to BJP MLA Shakti Raj Parihar’s statement blaming both Pakistan and Article 370 for terrorism, Abdullah countered, “If Article 370 was responsible for terrorism, then why oppose talks with Pakistan? If Pakistan spreads terror, why blame Article 370?” He claimed that terrorism has increased in Jammu post-abrogation.

Political Reservations and Representation

Abdullah refuted BJP’s claim that the abrogation of Article 370 led to an increase in Gujjar representation in the Assembly. He stated that the number of Gujjar MLAs had actually decreased from nine to six.

Legal and Political Hope for Article 370

The NC leader expressed optimism about restoring Article 370 through legal and political means. He noted that judicial decisions could be revisited, and political landscapes could shift, citing the BJP’s past minimal representation in Parliament.

BJP’s Allegations of Corruption

Mocking the BJP’s claims that abrogating Article 370 ended corruption, Abdullah referenced BJP leaders themselves criticizing the Jal Jeevan Mission as “Jugadu Jeevan Mission.” He highlighted allegations of corruption in mining and land use by BJP members.

Defending the Right to Discuss Article 370

Abdullah asserted that discussing Article 370 remains a democratic right and accused some individuals of trying to silence NC leaders. “We will continue our fight for the rights, dignity, and development of Jammu and Kashmir,” he declared.

On PoJK and Chinese Occupied Territories

Challenging BJP leaders on their stance on Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), Abdullah asked, “Who has stopped you from bringing back PoJK? Also, why don’t you talk about the parts of J&K held by China? When you bring PoJK back, also get back the territories under China.”

Legacy of the Maharaja and Changing Names

Responding to BJP’s claim that NC disrespected the Maharaja, Abdullah pointed out that his government had never attempted to rename institutions honoring the Maharaja, unlike BJP governments in other states. “The Maharaja gave us Jammu and Kashmir. What did you do? You even separated Ladakh from the state,” he said, criticizing BJP’s 2019 decisions.

Criticism on July 13, 1931, Martyrs and Holiday Cancellations

Taking a dig at BJP for derogatory remarks against the 1931 martyrs, Abdullah reminded the Assembly that the Maharaja had taken reformative steps following the protests. He also dismissed the cancellation of holidays like July 13 and December 5 (Sheikh Abdullah’s birth anniversary), stating that sacrifices remain significant even without official recognition.

Fight for Statehood and Governance

Abdullah emphasized that restoring statehood is vital for J&K’s dignity. “Half of our dignity was lost with statehood removal. As Chief Minister of a state, I ranked above Union Cabinet Ministers. Now, I am below Union Ministers of State,” he noted.

Promises and Manifesto Implementation

The Chief Minister reiterated his commitment to delivering on NC’s election promises, including the release of political prisoners and the reinstatement of unjustly terminated government employees.

Legislative Reforms and PSA Criticism

Defending his stance on PSA, Abdullah argued that reliance on preventive detention laws indicates weak cases. He urged proper legal proceedings for stone pelters and OGWs rather than PSA detentions.

Business Rules Finalized

The Chief Minister revealed that business rules for the Assembly had been framed and sent to the Lieutenant Governor for approval, aiming to streamline governance. “This system should function smoothly without confusion,” he stated.

Conclusion

Abdullah concluded with a strong reaffirmation of his government’s commitment to justice, development, and restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood. “Our fight for statehood is based on truth, justice, and law. Its restoration will bring relief to our people,” he asserted.

Ben Stokes Considered as Potential Successor to Jos Buttler as England’s White-Ball Captain

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Ben Stokes Considered as Potential Successor to Jos Buttler as England’s White-Ball Captain

England Test captain Ben Stokes is being considered as a potential replacement for Jos Buttler as the country’s limited-overs skipper, with ECB director of men’s cricket, Rob Key, stating that it would be “stupid” not to explore the option.

The move comes amid England’s struggles in white-ball cricket, with Key emphasizing Stokes’ leadership qualities and ability to revive the setup.

Stokes’ Leadership Qualities in Focus

Stokes, 33, last played ODIs during the 2023 World Cup, reversing his initial retirement decision. However, his return was hindered by a hamstring tear sustained during the third Test against New Zealand.

Key, speaking to ESPNCricinfo, highlighted Stokes’ impact as a leader:

“Ben Stokes is one of the best captains I’ve ever seen. So it would be stupid not to look at him. He’s an unbelievably good tactician, a leader of men, and someone who gets the best out of people. When the pressure is really on, he knows how to take control and guide the team forward.”

Stokes is currently in Abu Dhabi, recovering with an England Lions training group, and is expected to be fully fit for the summer with Durham.

Strategic Similarities Between Test and ODI Cricket

Key also pointed out the strategic overlap between Test and ODI formats, citing India’s model where Test cricketers have played a key role in 50-over success.

“I believe that Test cricket and 50-over cricket are probably closer than T20s, which is the outlier now. We look at India and their young T20 players, but it’s their Test players making the difference in ODIs.”

The Injury Factor & Stokes’ Workload

While Stokes remains a strong candidate, concerns remain over his injury record and ability to handle a demanding schedule. England face crucial Test series against India and Australia this year, along with ODI assignments against West Indies (May-June), South Africa, Ireland (September), and New Zealand ahead of the Ashes.

Key admitted that any decision would need to balance Stokes’ workload:

“It’s more about what that means for him and his body. We don’t want to risk other things. But sometimes, you also have to ask—what if it goes right?”

With Brendon McCullum overseeing England’s setup, the possibility of Stokes taking over gains further credibility. England have won 22 out of 35 Tests since 2022 under his captaincy, and the ECB hopes he can replicate the same magic in white-ball cricket.

However, a final decision is yet to be made as England assess Stokes’ fitness and long-term availability.

Harmanpreet Kaur Fined for Dissent at Umpire’s Decision in WPL Match

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Harmanpreet Kaur Fined for Dissent at Umpire’s Decision in WPL Match

Mumbai Indians captain Harmanpreet Kaur was fined 10 per cent of her match fee for showing dissent at an umpire’s decision during her team’s match against UP Warriorz at the Ekana Cricket Stadium on Friday.

The incident occurred at the end of the 19th over of UP Warriorz’s innings when on-field umpire Ajitesh Argal informed Harmanpreet that only three fielders could be positioned outside the inner circle in the final over due to a slow over rate.

Unhappy with the decision, Harmanpreet was seen engaging in a brief argument with the umpire, with Amelia Kerr also joining the discussion.

A statement issued by the Women’s Premier League (WPL) confirmed the punishment.

“Harmanpreet Kaur admitted to the Level 1 offence under Article 2.8, which relates to showing dissent at an umpire’s decision during a match.”

The release further stated that for Level 1 breaches of the Code of Conduct, the decision of the Match Referee is final and binding.

Heated Exchange with Sophie Ecclestone

In another tense moment during the match, Harmanpreet was involved in a heated exchange with UP Warriorz’s Sophie Ecclestone. The English all-rounder, who was standing at the non-striker’s end, walked toward the umpire to discuss the ruling. However, Harmanpreet appeared to respond sharply, seemingly asking Ecclestone to stay out of the discussion.

The situation escalated, prompting intervention from square-leg umpire N Janani and UP Warriorz captain Deepti Sharma, who stepped in to diffuse the tension.

Despite the on-field drama, UP Warriorz managed to post 150/9 in their 20 overs. Mumbai Indians chased down the target comfortably in 18.3 overs, securing an important victory in the tournament.

People Surrender Over 1,000 Arms in Manipur During Amnesty Period

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People Surrender Over 1,000 Arms in Manipur During Amnesty Period

Imphal, March 8: More than 1,000 arms along with a substantial amount of ammunition were voluntarily surrendered to security forces in strife-torn Manipur during a two-week amnesty period, a police officer confirmed on Friday. The surrender of looted and illegally held weapons followed an appeal by Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, offering a window for individuals to contribute to peace and security.

The final number of surrendered arms is yet to be confirmed, as authorities in Imphal are still collating details from all districts. The surrendered cache includes a mix of looted and illegally procured weapons, including handguns, machine guns, grenades, mortars, and advanced rifles such as the INSAS and AK-56.

Breakdown of Surrendered Weapons

A total of approximately 1,023 arms were surrendered across five valley districts, five hill districts, and Jiribam. Over 760 weapons came from the valley districts, while the remainder were from the hills and Jiribam. The surrendered arsenal included:

  • 9mm pistols
  • Sub-machine guns (SMGs)
  • Colt-machine guns (CMGs)
  • Self-loading rifles (SLRs)
  • Modified sniper rifles
  • INSAS and AK-56 rifles
  • Grenades, including Chinese-made ones
  • Bulletproof jackets, helmets, radio sets, camouflage uniforms, and locally made mortars (Pompi)

Key Dates and Surrender Figures

The highest number of arms was surrendered on February 27, with 307 weapons handed over, including 246 by Arambai Tenggol, a Meitei group. On March 6, the last day of the amnesty period, 196 weapons were surrendered across at least eight districts.

Governor Bhalla had initially set a seven-day deadline starting February 20, urging warring groups to surrender looted and illegal arms. The deadline was later extended until 4 PM on March 6 following demands from both hill and valley residents for more time. The administration assured that no punitive action would be taken against those who surrendered their weapons voluntarily.

Post-Deadline Security Operations

After the amnesty period ended, security forces launched combing and search operations across Manipur, recovering 36 arms, 129 rounds of ammunition, seven explosives, and 21 miscellaneous items. Additionally, 15 illegal bunkers were destroyed, including twelve in K Langnom and Khengjang areas and three in Haraothel, all located in Kangpokpi district.

Political Situation in Manipur

Manipur has been under President’s Rule since February 13, following the resignation of Chief Minister N Biren Singh. The state assembly, which was set to run until 2027, has been placed under suspended animation.

The ethnic violence in the state began on May 3, 2023, leading to the deaths of at least 250 people and the displacement of thousands. Clashes primarily occurred between the Meitei community in the valley and the Kuki community in the hills. However, the Naga-majority districts remained unaffected.

The recent surge in arms surrender has been seen as a significant step towards restoring peace in the troubled region. Authorities remain vigilant as they continue efforts to recover any remaining illegal weapons and maintain law and order.

Rahul Gandhi Begins Two-Day Gujarat Visit, Gears Up for 2027 Assembly Elections

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Rahul Gandhi Begins Two-Day Gujarat Visit, Gears Up for 2027 Assembly Elections

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi arrived in Ahmedabad on Friday morning for a two-day visit to Gujarat, focusing on preparations for the 2027 assembly elections.

Upon arrival at Ahmedabad airport, he proceeded to the Gujarat Congress headquarters in Paldi, where he held meetings with senior party leaders. Among those present were former state Congress presidents and former leaders of opposition in the assembly, the party stated.

High-Level Meetings on Party Strategy

Later in the day, Gandhi is set to attend a meeting with members of the State Political Affairs Committee. In a statement issued on Thursday, the Congress highlighted that Gandhi had previously expressed confidence in the party’s victory in the 2027 elections and emphasized that his visit marks the beginning of groundwork for the polls.

Gujarat, the home state of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has been under BJP rule since 1995.

Interaction with Party Workers and Social Organisations

On Friday evening, Gandhi will engage with district and city Congress presidents, along with taluka and municipality chiefs. He will also interact with representatives of social organisations between 5 PM and 7 PM, according to a media release.

On Saturday, Gandhi will address party workers in Ahmedabad before departing for Delhi in the afternoon.

Congress Prepares for AICC Session in Gujarat

The All India Congress Committee (AICC) session is scheduled to be held in Ahmedabad on April 8-9, marking the first time in 64 years that the state will host the event.

Party general secretary K C Venugopal had visited Gujarat last Tuesday to oversee preparations for the crucial meeting.

Congress’ Struggles in Gujarat Assembly Elections

In the 2022 Gujarat Assembly elections, Congress secured only 17 of the 182 seats. However, the party’s strength further dwindled to 12 after the resignation of five MLAs. Gandhi’s visit is seen as an effort to rebuild party morale and strategy ahead of the 2027 elections.

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