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  • How India Can Qualify For WTC Final After New Zealand Thrash West Indies

    How India Can Qualify For WTC Final After New Zealand Thrash West Indies

    New Delhi, December 22:
    India’s path to the World Test Championship (WTC) Final has become clearer following New Zealand’s dominant victory over West Indies, which has significantly impacted the points table and qualification scenarios.

    With the win, New Zealand consolidated their position on the WTC standings, while West Indies slipped further down. As a result, India’s qualification now largely depends on their performance in the remaining Test matches, particularly against key rivals in upcoming series.

    According to the updated calculations, India will need to win a majority of their remaining Tests to maintain a points percentage (PCT) high enough to finish in the top two. Even a drawn series could keep India in contention, provided other teams drop points.

    Cricket analysts noted that while New Zealand’s victory has reduced competition from West Indies, India must focus on consistency and avoid series defeats. Experts said the qualification race remains tight, making every Test result crucial as the WTC cycle approaches its conclusion.

  • Vaughan Admits ‘Bazball Exposed’ After Australia Retain Ashes Comfortably

    Vaughan Admits ‘Bazball Exposed’ After Australia Retain Ashes Comfortably

    London, December 22:
    Former England captain Michael Vaughan admitted that England’s aggressive ‘Bazball’ approach was exposed after Australia comfortably retained the Ashes, highlighting shortcomings in England’s strategy during the series.

    Vaughan said that while Bazball brought excitement and positive intent to England’s Test cricket, the method struggled against Australia’s disciplined bowling and tactical awareness. He noted that Australia’s ability to absorb pressure and exploit mistakes proved decisive throughout the series.

    The former opener added that England’s batting lacked adaptability in challenging conditions, stressing that aggressive cricket must be balanced with situational awareness. According to Vaughan, Australia’s consistency and experience ultimately separated the two sides.

    Cricket analysts echoed Vaughan’s assessment, stating that England will need to refine their approach ahead of future Test series. Australia’s Ashes retention was seen as a reflection of their depth, planning and ability to counter high-risk strategies.

  • Vaibhav Suryavanshi A Generational Talent, But Cricket Demands A Lot More

    Vaibhav Suryavanshi A Generational Talent, But Cricket Demands A Lot More

    New Delhi, December 22:
    Young cricketer Vaibhav Suryavanshi has been widely hailed as a generational talent, with experts and former players praising his natural ability and early performances. However, cricket analysts have cautioned that sustained success at the highest level demands much more than raw talent alone.

    Observers noted that while Suryavanshi possesses exceptional batting skills, hand-eye coordination and temperament at a young age, the transition from junior and domestic cricket to the international stage requires consistency, discipline and mental resilience. They stressed that handling pressure, adapting to different conditions and continuous skill development are crucial for long-term growth.

    Former cricketers emphasised the importance of proper guidance, workload management and a strong support system to help young talents avoid burnout. They added that patience from selectors, fans and media is equally important to allow players like Suryavanshi to mature naturally.

    Experts said that if nurtured carefully, Vaibhav Suryavanshi has the potential to become a key figure in Indian cricket in the future. However, they reiterated that success in the sport ultimately depends on perseverance, adaptability and sustained performance over time.

  • From Youth Prodigy To Team India T20 Debut: Vaishnavi Sharma

    From Youth Prodigy To Team India T20 Debut: Vaishnavi Sharma

    New Delhi, December 22:
    Cricket’s newest sensation Vaishnavi Sharma scripted a memorable chapter in her sporting journey as she made her T20 International debut for Team India, showcasing the rise of a young talent from promising youth star to an international cricketer.

    Born and raised in a small town, Vaishnavi’s cricketing journey began at the grassroots level, where her talent quickly caught the attention of coaches and selectors. Excelling in age-group tournaments, she dominated domestic youth circuits with consistent performances, powerful stroke play and impressive all-round skills, earning her reputation as a prodigy in Indian women’s cricket.

    Selectors recognised her potential following standout performances in major domestic competitions, which included high scores and match-winning contributions, eventually leading to her selection in the national T20 squad. Vaishnavi made her debut in India’s recent T20 series, where she displayed composure and flair under pressure, drawing praise from teammates and experts alike.

    Cricket pundits said Sharma’s rise adds strength to India’s women’s batting lineup, highlighting the effectiveness of the national cricketing ecosystem in identifying and nurturing young talent. Her success story is seen as an inspiration for aspiring cricketers across the country.

  • How A Five-Yearly Communist Party Congress Will Pick Vietnam’s Next Leader

    How A Five-Yearly Communist Party Congress Will Pick Vietnam’s Next Leader

    Hanoi, December 22:
    Vietnam is set to choose its next top leadership through the five-yearly National Congress of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV), a tightly controlled political process that plays a decisive role in shaping the country’s governance and policy direction.

    The Party Congress, attended by nearly 1,600 delegates representing over five million party members, will elect the Central Committee, which in turn selects the Politburo and the General Secretary, Vietnam’s most powerful political position. The General Secretary effectively serves as the country’s paramount leader, wielding influence over the government, military and party apparatus.

    Leadership selection is based on internal consensus, seniority, ideological alignment and administrative experience rather than public elections. Informal consultations, factional balance and anti-corruption credentials are considered key factors, with candidates often vetted well before the congress formally begins.

    Political analysts say the outcome of the congress will determine Vietnam’s economic reforms, foreign policy approach and governance priorities for the next five years. The leadership transition comes at a crucial time as Vietnam navigates global economic uncertainty, regional security challenges and its growing role in international supply chains.

  • India, New Zealand Seal Trade Deal To Cut Tariffs On Exports

    India, New Zealand Seal Trade Deal To Cut Tariffs On Exports

    New Delhi, December 22:
    India and New Zealand have concluded negotiations on a Free Trade Agreement (FTA), marking a significant milestone in bilateral economic cooperation. Under the pact, tariffs will be eliminated or reduced on about 95 per cent of goods traded between the two countries, with more than half of New Zealand’s exports to India becoming duty-free upon implementation.

    The agreement, finalised after nearly ten months of talks following a long hiatus in negotiations, is expected to boost trade flows and enhance market access for exporters on both sides. New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said the deal will open up substantial opportunities for Kiwi businesses in India’s expanding consumer and industrial markets.

    Officials project that the tariff cuts could raise New Zealand’s exports to India by between $1.1 billion and $1.3 billion per year over the next two decades, particularly benefiting sectors such as forestry, horticulture and manufactured goods. The pact also aims to strengthen cooperation in services, investment and trade facilitation.

    Trade analysts noted that the FTA will support broader economic ties and provide a framework for deeper engagement in technology, education and sustainable development. The agreement is expected to be formally signed early next year after domestic procedures in both countries are completed.

  • Dilip Buildcon Shares Hit One-Month High On Winning Order Worth Rs 4,900 Crore

    Dilip Buildcon Shares Hit One-Month High On Winning Order Worth Rs 4,900 Crore

    Mumbai, December 22:
    Shares of Dilip Buildcon Ltd surged to a one-month high in early trade on Monday after the company announced that it had secured a major infrastructure order worth Rs 4,900 crore, boosting investor sentiment.

    According to the company, the order was awarded by a government authority for the execution of a large-scale infrastructure project, strengthening Dilip Buildcon’s order book position. Market participants reacted positively to the development, citing improved revenue visibility and growth prospects.

    Analysts said the fresh order is expected to support the company’s medium- to long-term earnings outlook, especially amid rising public infrastructure spending. The stock witnessed strong buying interest as investors assessed the impact of the contract on cash flows and execution capabilities.

  • BJP Got Rs 6,654 Crore In Donations In 2024–25, Congress Saw Huge Dip

    BJP Got Rs 6,654 Crore In Donations In 2024–25, Congress Saw Huge Dip

    New Delhi, December 22:
    The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) received Rs 6,654 crore in donations during the financial year 2024–25, registering a massive lead over other national political parties, according to data submitted to the Election Commission of India. In contrast, the Congress party witnessed a sharp decline in its donation income during the same period.

    The figures indicate that the BJP continued to dominate political funding, with a significant portion of contributions coming through electoral bonds and other declared sources. Analysts noted that the party’s strong organisational network, electoral performance and donor confidence contributed to the surge in funding.

    Meanwhile, the Congress party’s reduced donation inflow has raised questions about its fundraising mechanisms and financial outreach. Political observers said the widening gap in party finances could have implications for campaign capacity, organisational strength and electoral preparedness ahead of upcoming elections.

  • Pulse Polio Drive Covers 40 Lakh Children Across Andhra Pradesh

    Pulse Polio Drive Covers 40 Lakh Children Across Andhra Pradesh

    Vijayawada, December 22:
    The Pulse Polio Immunisation programme in Andhra Pradesh successfully covered nearly 40 lakh children below the age of five, health department officials said on Monday. The drive was conducted across urban, rural and remote areas to ensure complete immunisation coverage.

    Thousands of healthcare workers, volunteers and ASHA staff were deployed at vaccination booths and for door-to-door campaigns. Special arrangements were made at bus stations, railway stations and migrant settlements to reach every child.

    Health officials reaffirmed the state’s commitment to maintaining its polio-free status and urged parents to actively participate in future immunisation programmes. The successful drive reflects Andhra Pradesh’s strong public health infrastructure and coordinated administrative efforts.

  • AP Steps Up Efforts For Godavari Water Tribunal Amid Dispute With Telangana

    AP Steps Up Efforts For Godavari Water Tribunal Amid Dispute With Telangana

    Amaravati, December 22:
    The Andhra Pradesh government has intensified its efforts to seek the formation of a Godavari water tribunal to resolve long-standing river water sharing disputes, particularly in view of objections raised by neighbouring Telangana. Officials said the tribunal is essential to ensure equitable allocation and legal clarity.

    State authorities argued that delays in resolving the dispute are affecting irrigation, drinking water projects and long-term water planning. Andhra Pradesh has reiterated that a tribunal-backed decision would help protect its interests and avoid unilateral actions.

    Officials further stated that the state has formally communicated its concerns to the Centre and is seeking early intervention. Experts believe a tribunal could provide a structured mechanism to address inter-state water conflicts and prevent future disputes.