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Soldiers deployed to combat crime in South Africa

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 14:43:07 GMT

A total of 550 personnel of the national defense force have been employed under Operation Prosper illegal mining, President Cyril Ramaphosa has said

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has officially notified parliament of the deployment of personnel of the National Defense Force (SANDF) to assist the police in combating illegal mining in Gauteng Province.

The deployment, aimed at prese

Six killed in Swiss bus fire after suspected self-immolation

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 09:08:12 GMT

Five others were injured after a blaze destroyed a postal bus, as police investigate a suspected deliberate act

Six people have been killed and five others injured after a bus fire in western Switzerland, which police say may have been a deliberate act, according to media reports, citing Fribourg cantonal police.

The blaze erupted on a regional postal bus in Kerzers, Switzerland on Tuesday,

Ramaphosa praises Lula for strengthening Brazil-South Africa strategic partnership

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 07:31:30 GMT

Brasilia [Brazil], March 11 (ANI): South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has praised Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva for playing a key role in strengthening the strategic partnership between Brazil and South Africa. Ramaphosa made the remarks during a joint address in Brasilia as part of his state visit to Brazil.

Speaking alongside Lula, the South African leader highlighted the importance of the

3rd ODI: Amelia Kerr shines as NZ women thrash Zimbabwe by 200 runs, seal 3-0 sweep

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 05:59:43 GMT

Dunedin [New Zealand], March 11 (ANI): An outstanding all-round performance from Amelia Kerr, including a hat-trick, powered the New Zealand women's cricket team to a massive 200-run victory over the Zimbabwe women's cricket team in the third and final ODI, completing a dominant 3-0 whitewash in the series on Wednesday.

Kerr, who scored 80 runs and picked up a brilliant five-wicket haul with the ball, was named P

ICC cites Gulf crisis for delay in teams' return after T20 WC

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 05:31:50 GMT

New Delhi [India], March 11 (ANI): The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Wednesday said that the delay in the return of several teams after the ICC Men's T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka was caused by disruptions to international air travel resulting from the ongoing crisis in the Gulf region.

'We understand that players, coaches, support staff and their families who have completed their ICC Men's T20 Wo

"I don't agree to that" Gautam Gambhir dismisses criticism that Indian wickets are 'tailored' to suit home team

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 04:59:40 GMT

New Delhi [India], March 11 (ANI): Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir dismissed criticism that Indian pitches are 'tailored' to suit the home team, asserting that such claims are often made to create controversy and attract views.

Defending India's high-scoring performances during the recently concluded ICC Men's T20 World Cup, the Indian head coach said the team has posted similar totals in overseas conditions lik

''I listen to my instincts, not data": Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 04:32:11 GMT

New Delhi [India], March 11 (ANI): Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir said he relies primarily on his instinct when making decisions as a coach, stressing that he backs his judgment even without depending heavily on data.

In an exclusive interview with ANI, Gambhir noted that every leader brings a unique vision and his approach to how the Indian team plays, conducts itself and operates reflects his personal philos

"I don't agree to that; we didn't score big in Indian conditions only": Gautam Gambhir rubs off criticism over 'tailored' pitches

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 03:59:43 GMT

Defending India's high-scoring performances during the recently concluded ICC Men's T20 World Cup, the Indian head coach said the team has posted similar totals in overseas conditions lik

CWI arranges commercial travel for West Indies squad after ICC charter flight delay

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 03:31:18 GMT

Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], March 11 (ANI): Cricket West Indies (CWI) has secured commercial travel arrangements for members of the West Indies squad currently in India, following continued delays in charter flight arrangements organised by the International Cricket Council (ICC).

In a statement, CWI said that travel and accommodation arrangements for participating teams during both the men's and women's ICC W

Coach Gambhir thanks Jay Shah for "trusting him" with the job, lauds Shah's passion for the sport

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 03:30:54 GMT

New Delhi [India], March 11 (ANI): As his side basks in the triumph of the T20 World Cup, Indian Head Coach Gautam Gambhir has lauded the role played by ICC Chairman and former BCCI Secretary Jay Shah in taking Indian Cricket forward and revealed the role played by Shah in getting him on board as head coach.

Gambhir had taken up the Head Coach role following his triumph with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the In

Phil Mickelson delays start to LIV season again for family matter

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 16:19:19 GMT

(Photo credit: Aaron Doster-Imagn Images)

Phil Mickelson will miss the fourth LIV Golf event of the season, yet to make his 2026 debut because of an undisclosed family health matter.

Wade Ormsby of Australia will take Mickelson's place in the event field and compete for HyFlyers GC, the team Mickelson, 55, captains.

'I will not be able to participate in the first two LIV Events as [wife] Amy and I nee

South Africans return home as Middle East conflict escalates

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 16:18:06 GMT

Pretoria has advised its nationals to take "immediate advantage" of the limited commercial flights and leave the region

South African nationals have begun returning home from the Middle East after the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) urged them to leave the conflict-hit region.

Whil

Hero Indian Open set to tee-off with record prize money of $2.55 million

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 16:00:29 GMT

New Delhi [India], March 10 (ANI): The Hero Indian Open (HIO), one of Asia's most prestigious golf tournaments, is set for its 2026 edition with a world-class field and a record prize money. Sanctioned by the DP World Tour and Indian Golf Union (IGU), the tournament will be held from March 26-29, 2026, at the DLF Golf and Country Club, Gurugram, which will play host to the storied event yet again.

According to a

Brazil pitches defense cooperation with BRICS partner to avoid 'invasion'

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 15:37:05 GMT

South Africa should work more closely with the Latin American country and stop buying foreign arms, President Lula da Silva has said

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has called on fellow BRICS member South Africa to boost defense cooperation and reduce their reliance on foreign arms, warning that the two

Jon Rahm isn't resting on laurels heading into LIV Golf Singapore

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 14:55:16 GMT

(Photo credit: Hamad I Mohammed/Reuters via Imagn Images)

Jon Rahm admitted Tuesday that he barely has had time to savor the flavor of his victory on Sunday in Hong Kong before turning his attention to this week's LIV Golf Singapore.

The Spaniard captured his first individual tournament win since September 2024 with a three-stroke victory over Belgium's Thomas Detry in Hong Kong.

'I don't know if I've

Brazil President Lula da Sliva stresses need for Defence Investment

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 14:32:06 GMT

Sao Paulo [Brazil], March 10 (ANI): President of Brazil, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva on Monday emphasised the need for Brazil to strengthen its defence capabilities and expand international cooperation to avoid strategic vulnerabilities.

The remarks came during a meeting with Cyril Ramaphosa at the Planalto Palace in Brasilia as part of Ramaphosa's state visit aimed at deepening bilateral relations between the two

Coach Gambhir points out turning point of India's T20WC campaign

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 09:01:14 GMT

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], March 10 (ANI): Following his side's ICC T20 World Cup win, Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir termed Sanju Samson's knock of 97* against West Indies as the 'turning point of the campaign' and pointed out how his confidence was going ahead in the tournament.

Samson scripted a comeback for ages during the recently-concluded T20 World Cup as he battled inconsistency and benching to emer

Russia's mining engineering education system to gain global visibility through TV BRICS

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 08:32:35 GMT

Moscow [Russia], March 10 (ANI): The TV BRICS International Media Network and the International Competence Centre for Mining Engineering Education have signed a cooperation agreement aimed at boosting international recognition of Russia's mining engineering education and strengthening collaboration among BRICS+ countries in science, innovation and education.

According to TV BRICS, the agreement involves the auton

First cap, lessons, criticism, redemption: T20WC winning skipper Suryakumar Yadav's Ahmedabad story

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 06:32:22 GMT

New Delhi [India], March 10 (ANI): Indian T20I skipper Suryakumar Yadav finally wiped out the horrors of the 2023 50-over World Cup final at Ahmedabad's Narendra Modi Stadium, lifting the T20 World Cup at a venue with which he shares a lot of history in his cricketing journey.

Grinding out in his 20s in the Indian Premier League (IPL) for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Mumbai Indians (MI) and domestic cricket f

Tharoor reveals getting "birthday call" from T20WC winner Sanju Samson, wishes him best for IPL

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 05:59:44 GMT

New Delhi [India], March 3 (ANI): Congress MP Shashi Tharoor expressed happiness at Sanju Samson's scintillating performances in India's T20 World Cup triumph and revealed that he received a call from the wicketkeeper-batter on his birthday.

Samson had a redemption story to remember, as he went from not being a part of the playing eleven in the start and having a frustratingly inconsistent form, he went on to pl

ICC announces team of the tournament for T20 WC 2026, featuring four Indians

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 17:32:16 GMT

New Delhi [India], March 9 (ANI): India made history by defending their T20 World Cup title, defeating New Zealand by a whopping 96 runs in Ahmedabad on Sunday.

The tournament saw some incredible performances, and the ICC Team of the Tournament has been announced, featuring the best players who lit up the stage.

The selection panel, comprising cricket legends like Ian Bishop, Eion Morgan, and Natalie Germa

Sri Lanka announces Gary Kirsten as new head coach for men's team

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 16:01:20 GMT

Colombo [Sri Lanka], March 9 (ANI): Sri Lanka has announced the appointment of Gary Kirsten as the new head coach of the national men's side.

Former South African cricketer and renowned coach Kirsten will take on the role of Sri Lanka's national men's team head coach starting April 15.

Kirsten has enjoyed a stellar coaching career. He led India to victory in the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup, and later took S

Afghanistan-Sri Lanka white-ball series likely to be postponed indefinitely as West Asia conflict deepens

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 16:00:01 GMT

New Delhi [India], March 9 (ANI): The Afghanistan-Sri Lanka white-ball series, scheduled in the UAE from March 13-25, is likely to be postponed indefinitely due to escalating military conflict in West Asia.

According to ESPNcricinfo, neither Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) nor Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has issued an official statement regarding this, but both boards have agreed that the series cannot take place in

(SP)CANADA-VANCOUVER-RUGBY SEVENS-MEN'S CUP FINAL

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 07:46:21 GMT

(260309) -- VANCOUVER, March 9, 2026 (Xinhua) -- Impi Visser (L) and Grant de Jager (C) of South Africa vie with Manu Moreno of Spain during the Men's Cup Final match between South Africa and Spain at 2026 World Rugby Sevens Series in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, on March 8, 2026. (Photo by Liang Sen/Xinhua)

"Hoping this winning streak will continue till next year's ODI WC": IPL Chairman Arun Dhumal after India's T20 WC win

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 07:01:39 GMT

Ahmedabad (Gujarat) [India], March 9 (ANI): Chairman of the Indian Premier League (IPL) Governing Council, Arun Singh Dhumal, expressed joy over Team India's victory in the T20 World Cup 2026 final against New Zealand on Sunday. Crediting the team's effort throughout the T20 WC campaign, Arun Dhumal expressed hope for India's winning streak to continue till the 2027 ODI World Cup.

Speaking to reporters after Team

"All players contributed to victory": Axar Patel's father after India clinch T20 World Cup 2026

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 06:32:44 GMT

Nadiad (Gujarat) [India], March 9 (ANI): Indian all-rounder Axar Patel's father, Rajesh Patel, expressed joy over Team India's victory in the T20 World Cup 2026 final against New Zealand on Sunday. Rajesh Patel highlighted Axar's three wickets and Jasprit Bumrah's four wickets, saying the team's collective effort made him especially proud, and shared that he congratulated Axar after the match.

Speaking to ANI aft

"Changed my life completely": Suryakumar Yadav credits catch in 2024 T20 WC final against Proteas for changing his fortunes

Sun, 08 Mar 2026 23:31:05 GMT

Ahmedabad (Gujarat) [India], March 9 (ANI): Following India's historic triumph in the T20 World Cup 2026, skipper Suryakumar Yadav credited the famous catch of South African batsman David Miller in the 2024 T20 World Cup for changing his fortunes.

Yadav grabbed a match-winning catch in the 2024 T20 World Cup final. It was a stunning boundary-rope grab to dismiss Miller in the final over, which proved to be the la

Gambhir dedicates T20WC to Dravid, Laxman; lauds Jay Shah for support during "lowest moments of his tenure"

Sun, 08 Mar 2026 22:31:19 GMT

Ahmedabad (Gujarat) [India], March 9 (ANI): Following his side's T20 World Cup title win, Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir dedicated the trophy to previous head coach Rahul Dravid, who ended the trophy drought of 11 long years with 2024 win and the head of Centre of Excellence (CoE) Bengaluru, former Indian cricketer VVS Laxman, calling the institution as a 'pipeline for Indian cricket'.

Team India made it back-

Rohit Sharma congratulates Team India after T20WC triumph

Sun, 08 Mar 2026 20:30:28 GMT

Ahmedabad (Gujarat) [India], March 9 (ANI): Former India captain Rohit Sharma congratulated the India national cricket team after their triumph in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, praising the collective effort of the squad.

Taking to Instagram after the Men in Blue's historic victory, Rohit lauded the team's performance throughout the tournament and acknowledged the contributions of every player involved in the

"Best team by a mile...": Cricket fraternity hails India's third T20WC triumph

Sun, 08 Mar 2026 19:59:02 GMT

New Delhi [India], March 9 (ANI): The cricketing fraternity extended their congratulations and wishes to Team India after they secured their third T20 World Cup title and became the first team to defend the trophy in the tournament's history.

It was another dominant performance for Team India as top-order exploits from Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson and Ishan Kishan and brilliant spells from Axar Patel and Jaspri

India continues their dominance in white-ball tournaments since 2023 after defending their T20 WC crown

Sun, 08 Mar 2026 19:58:53 GMT

Ahmedabad (Gujarat) [India], March 9 (ANI): The Indian team continues their dominance in the white-ball tournaments since 2023, with 31 wins out of their 33 matches ODI and T20I combined.

India has just lost two fixtures since 2023, including the ODI World Cup final against Australia three years ago and against South Africa in the Super 8 fixtures of the 2026 T20 World Cup.

A dominant batting show by the to

"Really happy for you chetta": Virat Kohli hails Sanju Samson for 'Player of the Tournament' performance in T20WC

Sun, 08 Mar 2026 19:58:32 GMT

New Delhi [India], March 9 (ANI): Indian batting icon Virat Kohli hailed Sanju Samson for his strong performances in the T20 World Cup 2026, which earned him the 'Player of the Tournament' award and led to him breaking a couple of his records as well.

From 46 runs in those five horrific innings against New Zealand to being dropped from the team in favour of Ishan Kishan, Sanju has scripted a fairytale comeback t

Sanju Samson posts highest score in the T20WC final; overtakes Virat Kohli as redemption story continues

Sun, 08 Mar 2026 19:04:23 GMT

Ahmedabad (Gujarat) [India], March 8 (ANI): Indian batter Sanju Samson scripted perhaps the most important knock of his redemption arc, scoring a brilliant 89 during the T20 World Cup final against New Zealand at Ahmedabad's Narendra Modi Stadium on Sunday, registering the highest individual score in a T20 World Cup final.

Samson's brilliant run continues as he went past legendary Virat Kohli to become the batte

T20 World Cup: Indian players sing National Anthem led by Kavita Krishnamurti

Sun, 08 Mar 2026 19:03:00 GMT

Ahmedabad (Gujarat) [India], March 8 (ANI): Veteran singer Kavita Krishnamurti delivered a powerful and stirring rendition of the national anthem, instantly electrifying the atmosphere in the Narendra Modi Stadium before the start of the T20 World Cup finals between Team India and New Zealand.

Kavita Krishnamurti stood proudly before the Indian team as the Men in Blue joined her in singing the national anthem. Sh

MS Dhoni, Rohit Sharma walks out with T20 WC Trophy in final

Sun, 08 Mar 2026 19:02:51 GMT

Ahmedabad (Gujarat) [India], March 8 (ANI): India's World Cup-winning captains Rohit Sharma and MS Dhoni, alongside International Cricket Council chairman Jay Shah, walked out at the Narendra Modi Stadium, in Ahmedabad, with the T20 World Cup trophy on Sunday.

New Zealand entered the finals after defeating South Africa in the semifinal, and India secured a thrilling seven-run win over England in Mumbai to book th

Abhishek Sharma ends slump with roaring, record-breaking fifty in T20WC final

Sun, 08 Mar 2026 19:02:41 GMT

Ahmedabad (Gujarat) [India], March 8 (ANI): Indian batter Abhishek Sharma could not have chosen a better time to roar back to form, as following a slump in the tournament, the left-hander chose the ICC T20 World Cup final to slam the fastest half-century in history of the T20 WC knockout stage.

Prior to the high-stakes final at Ahmedabad's Narendra Modi Stadium, Abhishek had failed to live up his world number on

T20 WC: West Indies, South Africa to fly out from India on March 10

Sun, 08 Mar 2026 19:01:20 GMT

Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], March 8 (ANI): Both West Indies and South Africa have received clarity regarding their journey home from India after their exits from the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, as per ESPNcricinfo. Both teams are set to leave India on March 10. Both cricket teams could not leave for their respective home countries as per their original departure plans after airspace restrictions in the Gulf region

T20 World Cup closing ceremony: Sukhbir's 'Oh Ho Ho Ho' and Ricky Martin's 'Un, Dos, Tres' reverberate across Narendra Modi Stadium

Sun, 08 Mar 2026 19:01:03 GMT

Ahmedabad (Gujarat) [India], March 8 (ANI): Before witnessing the cricket clash between Team India and New Zealand in the ICC T20 World Cup final at Narendra Modi Stadium on Sunday evening, spectators were treated to a musical performance by Punjabi singer Sukhbir Singh and international star Ricky Martin.

Sukhbir kick-started the closing ceremony with his chartbuster 'Oh Ho Ho Ho', prompting the audience to danc

T20 WC final: New Zealand wins toss, asks defending champions India to bat

Sun, 08 Mar 2026 19:00:28 GMT

Ahmedabad (Gujarat) [India], March 8 (ANI): New Zealand have won the toss and opted to field against India in the final of the T20 World Cup 2026 in Ahmedabad on Sunday.

New Zealand entered the finals after defeating South Africa in the semifinal, India secured a thrilling seven-run win over Engalnd in Mumbai to book their finals berth.

In their head-to-head clashes, history may favour New Zealand, but for

T20 WC: Rachin Ravindra eyes significant milestone against India in final

Sun, 08 Mar 2026 19:00:12 GMT

Ahmedabad (Gujarat) [India], March 8 (ANI): New Zealand's star all-rounder Rachin Ravindra is on the verge of breaking a major record in the T20 World Cup for the Kiwis.

Rachin has scalped 11 wickets in the ongoing T20 World Cup; only New Zealand's ace speedster Trent Boult has taken more (13) wickets than him in a single edition of the T20 WC for Kiwi's.

In 8 fixtures in the ongoing T20 WC, Rachin has gr

Team management has to take a tough call on Abhishek Sharma: Mohammad Kaif before T20WC final

Sun, 08 Mar 2026 13:01:40 GMT

New Delhi [India], March 8 (ANI): Former cricketer Mohammad Kaif said that the Indian team management must take a 'tough' selection decision regarding World No. 1 T20I batter Abhishek Sharma ahead of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 final against New Zealand in Ahmedabad on Sunday evening.

Kaif expressed his views on the social media platform X, suggesting that the team management must take a 'tough call' on whet

IND vs NZ final: 5 key battles to watch out for in Ahmedabad

Sun, 08 Mar 2026 13:01:34 GMT

New Delhi [India], March 8 (ANI): India and New Zealand are set to face off against each other in the T20 World Cup 2026 final clash at Ahmedabad's Narendra Modi Stadium on Sunday. With both teams having played some impressive cricket in the lead-up to the final, players like Mitchell Santner, Jasprit Bumrah, Suryakumar Yadav, and Arshdeep Singh, among others, are set to play crucial roles in the summit clash.

"India will win:" Jammu and Kashmir captain Paras Dogra ahead of T20WC final

Sun, 08 Mar 2026 13:00:53 GMT

Jammu (Jammu and Kashmir) [India], March 8 (ANI): Jammu and Kashmir captain Paras Dogra has backed India to emerge victorious in the final of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 against New Zealand, expressing confidence that the home side has the strength to dominate the title clash.

Coming to both teams' T20 WC 2026 campaigns, India and New Zealand took different routes to the T20 World Cup 2026 final.

New Z

Allen, Seifert most explosive openers of T20 World Cup: Aakash Chopra ahead of final

Sun, 08 Mar 2026 13:00:36 GMT

New Delhi [India], March 8 (ANI): Former India cricketer and commentator Aakash Chopra has described New Zealand openers Finn Allen and Tim Seifert as the most explosive and consistent opening pair in the ongoing ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026.

Chopra said that their aggressive approach could pose a serious challenge for Indian bowlers during the final at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Sunday.

Speaking on JioHo

(Hello Africa) Lesotho's Moshoeshoe Walk unites culture, community and cross-border friendship

Sun, 08 Mar 2026 10:45:12 GMT

The Moshoeshoe Walk, a 116-km trek retracing the historic route taken more than two centuries ago by King Moshoeshoe I, has grown into one of Lesotho's most influential cultural traditions since its inception in 2007.

by Xinhua writer Hang Zebo, Bai Ge

MASERU, March 8 (Xinhua) -- As the first light of dawn broke over the peaks of northern Lesotho, the quiet village of Menkhoaneng sprang to

Tech meets cricket: Google Doodle marks ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 finale

Sun, 08 Mar 2026 10:32:18 GMT

Washington [US], March 8 (ANI): Google on Sunday unveiled a special doodle to commemorate the grand finale of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, highlighting one of cricket's biggest global events as the tournament reaches its climax in India.

The final is being played at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, bringing the month-long international competition to a close. The 2026 edition of the tournament

Former Indian cricketer Laxmi Ratan Shukla encourages Team India to maintain form in the T20 WC final against New Zealand

Sun, 08 Mar 2026 10:31:45 GMT

Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], March 8 (ANI): Former India cricketer and West Bengal minister Laxmi Ratan Shukla on Sunday encouraged Team India to play the way they have played throughout the tournament ahead of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 final against New Zealand at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, expressing confidence in batters Sanju Samson and Ishan Kishan's good form and wished the team the best ahe

Did you know Africa once had nuclear weapons

Sun, 08 Mar 2026 09:41:11 GMT

While the continent is legally committed to being a nuclear-free zone, its security is challenged by the lack of clarity in global nuclear politics

Did you know there was a time when Africa actually possessed nuclear weapons? Why, then, does the continent no longer have them? Looking back, we can see this was a historic turning point - a moment when the region's security trajectory took a decisiv

"You are the best team": Anupam Kher wishes Team India luck ahead of ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 final

Sun, 08 Mar 2026 09:00:54 GMT

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], March 8 (ANI): Veteran actor Anupam Kher has extended his best wishes to all teams competing in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, with a special message of encouragement for Team India ahead of the much-anticipated final against the New Zealand national cricket team.

Speaking to ANI, the acclaimed actor praised the Indian side and expressed hope that they would lift the trophy in the

"Our players are best, I hope they win": Jaya Kishori ahead of T20 WC title clash

Sun, 08 Mar 2026 09:00:34 GMT

Ahmedabad (Gujarat) [India], March 8 (ANI): India are facing New Zealand in the title decider of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, and the fans are offering prayers and doing aartis ahead of the final later on Sunday.

People performed aarti at Ganga Ghat in Varanasi today and prayed for the victory of the Indian team.

Speaking to ANI on Sunday, the spiritual orator Jaya Kishori said, 'I pray to God that Ind

Bumrah's match-up with Allen-Seifert key in determining T20WC winner

Sun, 08 Mar 2026 09:00:21 GMT

Ahmedabad (Gujarat) [India], March 8 (ANI): Speedster Jasprit Bumrah will hold the key to India's third T20 World Cup title, with an intriguing match up against New Zealand openers Finn Allen and Tim Seifert set to be in focus during the all-important final at Ahmedabad's Narendra Modi Stadium.

Men in Blue will be aiming to become the first team to defend the T20WC title at home while Kiwis will be eyeing their f

"We're excited, expect a good game": Fans express enthusiasm ahead of IND vs NZ T20 WC final

Sun, 08 Mar 2026 08:31:28 GMT

Ahmedabad (Gujarat) [India], March 8 (ANI): Cricket fans arrived in Ahmedabad in large numbers on Sunday ahead of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 final between co-hosts India and New Zealand at the Narendra Modi Stadium, with supporters backing the Suryakumar Yadav-led Men in Blue to win while acknowledging that the Mitchell Santner-led New Zealand side would pose a significant threat.

Speaking to ANI in Ahmedab

"Abhishek Sharma has tremendous potential": Vengsarkar confident ahead of T20 WC final

Sun, 08 Mar 2026 07:59:40 GMT

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], March 8 (ANI): Former Indian cricketer Dilip Vengsarkar on Sunday expressed confidence in India's chances ahead of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 final against New Zealand, noting that the players are in good form and the home advantage will be a significant factor.

India and New Zealand are set to face each other in the T20 World Cup 2026 final at Ahmedabad's Narendra Modi Stadium

IPL franchise LSG organises 10km marathon run in Lucknow for T20 WC 2026 final

Sun, 08 Mar 2026 07:59:23 GMT

Lucknow (Uttar Pradesh) [India], March 8 (ANI): The Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) organised a 10 km marathon run in Lucknow ahead of India's title decider match against New Zealand in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026.

The Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad is ready to host another ICC final, and this time Indian fans are hoping for a happy finish as the Men in Blue are defending

"The shirt's pressed...now it's over to the boys": Dinesh Karthik ahead of T20 WC Final

Sun, 08 Mar 2026 07:00:54 GMT

Ahmedabad (Gujarat) [India], March 8 (ANI): Former Indian cricketer Dinesh Karthik has ironed his shirt ahead of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 final between India and New Zealand at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday, continuing a ritual that has become something of a good luck charm for Team India.

Sharing a video on X with the caption, 'The shirt's pressed. The vibes are set. Now it's over to t

"India will definitely win this match": Rajkumar Sharma ahead of T20 WC Final

Sun, 08 Mar 2026 07:00:36 GMT

New Delhi [India], March 8 (ANI): India are set to clash with New Zealand in the summit clash of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday, and Virat Kohli's childhood coach Rajkumar Sharma is pretty sure that the cup will stay in India.

Speaking to ANI ahead of the final match, Rajkumar Sharma said, 'Nothing can be said for sure in T20 cricket, but looking at our cricke

"Our bowlers must bowl well today": Kuldeep Yadav's childhood coach ahead of T20 WC Final

Sun, 08 Mar 2026 07:00:21 GMT

Kanpur (Uttar Pradesh) [India], March 8 (ANI): India are ready to defend their title against New Zealand in the final of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday, and the Indian spinner Kuldeep Yadav's childhood coach Kapil Pandey stressed the need for the bowlers to do well in the summit clash.

Speaking to ANI on Sunday, Kapil Pandey said, 'It's a big ground. All our b

"More than 2,000 police personnel will be deployed": JCP Ahmedabad City ahead of T20 WC Final

Sun, 08 Mar 2026 05:32:11 GMT

Ahmedabad (Gujarat) [India], March 8 (ANI): Ahead of the Indian cricket team face off with New Zealand in the final of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday city police has put in place safety arrangements for the high-octane event.

Joint Commissioner of Police (JCP), Sector-1, Ahmedabad City, Neeraj Kumar Badgujar told ANI, 'More than 121 police officers and more th

T20 WC Final: Saints in Ayodhya offer special prayers for Indian team's victory

Sun, 08 Mar 2026 03:59:12 GMT

Ayodhya (Uttar Pradesh) [India], March 8 (ANI): Saints in Ayodhya offered special prayers for the Indian cricket team on Sunday as they prepare to take on New Zealand in the summit clash of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

The sages carrying the posters of the Indian players and the national flag chanted mantras and performed havan for the good luck of the Indian team.

T20 World Cup 2026: MS Dhoni arrives in Ahmedabad ahead of India vs New Zealand final

Sun, 08 Mar 2026 03:30:49 GMT

Ahmedabad (Gujarat) [India], March 8 (ANI): Former India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni has arrived in Ahmedabad on Sunday morning as the Indian team is set to clash with New Zealand in the final of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 at the Narendra Modi Stadium.

The 44-year-old witnessed India's semi-final victory over England at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai and may come to watch the final match as Men in Blue will be

"Special feeling": Indian skipper Suryakumar Yadav speaks on leading India in T20 WC final against Kiwi's

Sat, 07 Mar 2026 17:33:11 GMT

Ahmedabad (Gujarat) [India], March 7 (ANI): Indian skipper Suryakumar Yadav expressed his thrill to lead India in the T20 World Cup final at home against New Zealand, calling it a special feeling.

Suryakumar said he's excited, a bit nervous, but focused on keeping things simple and expressed pride in India's journey in the ongoing T20 WC and is grateful for the support.

India is looking to defend its titl

"He knows how to win matches for India": Suryakumar Yadav expresses strong support for Varun Chakravarthy ahead of T20 WC final

Sat, 07 Mar 2026 17:32:05 GMT

Ahmedabad (Gujarat) [India], March 7 (ANI): Indian skipper Suryakumar Yadav backed India's mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy and expressed strong support for him ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 final against New Zealand, on Sunday, at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Chakravarthy has struggled since the Super 8s, taking four wickets in four matches at an economy rate of 11+. His semi-final outing agai

Three share 2-shot lead entering final round in Hong Kong

Sat, 07 Mar 2026 16:05:15 GMT

(Photo credit: Aaron Doster-Imagn Images)

Spain's Jon Rahm, Harold Varner III and Belgium's Thomas Detry are tied for the lead at 17-under entering Sunday's final round at LIV Golf Hong Kong.

Belgium's Thomas Pieters and 36-hole co-leaders Dean Burmester of South Africa and Carlos Ortiz of Mexico are two shots behind following Saturday's third round at Hong Kong Golf Club at Fanling.

Pieters shot the

Eathan Bosch ruled out from Proteas squad of NZ T20I series, Wiaan Mulder named replacement

Sat, 07 Mar 2026 14:00:57 GMT

Cape town [South Africa], March 7 (ANI): South Africa's allrounder Eathan Bosch has been ruled out of the upcoming five-match T20I series in New Zealand due to a hamstring injury. Wiaan Mulder has been named as his replacement in the 15-man squad for the series, which starts on March 15.

Bosch has played just one game for South Africa - an ODI a year ago - and was in line to make his T20I debut. On the other hand

T20 WC: England, South Africa, West Indies to leave India on weekend by ICC-arranged charter flights

Sat, 07 Mar 2026 12:33:17 GMT

New Delhi [India], March 7 (ANI): England, South Africa, and West Indies cricket teams are set to leave India this weekend on International Cricket Council (ICC) arranged charter flights due to West Asia's ongoing military conflict disrupting air travel.

England's team is expected to depart from Mumbai Saturday evening for London, while South Africa and West Indies will fly together from Kolkata, likely stopping

Annabel Sutherland becomes first woman to hit Test tons in three consecutive innings

Sat, 07 Mar 2026 10:32:37 GMT

Perth [Australia], March 7 (ANI): Annabel Sutherland of Australia became the first woman cricketer to score hundreds in three consecutive innings in a Test when she hit a 129-run knock on Day 2 of the ongoing one-off Test match against India at the WACA Stadium in Australia.

Playing her seventh Test match, Sutherland hit her fourth Test century with the help of 17 fours. She took 171 balls to make 129 runs, whic

Whole crowd cheering for you gives motivation: Piyush Chawla on India playing T20 WC final at home

Sat, 07 Mar 2026 08:32:36 GMT

New Delhi [India], March 7 (ANI): India is all set to host South Africa in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 final at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, the former Indian wicketkeeper-batter, Parthiv Patel, emphasised that the support of the Indian crowd will be a key factor in motivating the players for the title clash on Sunday.

Team India is aiming to defend its title at home and become the first side ever

Whole crowd is cheering, it gives you motivation: Piyush Chawla on India playing T20 WC final at home

Sat, 07 Mar 2026 08:32:27 GMT

Team India is aiming to defend its title at home and become the first side ever

South Africa re-enlists dozens of retired detectives

Sat, 07 Mar 2026 08:21:00 GMT

Over 60 have rejoined the SAPS in the Western Cape to enhance its investigative capacity amid rising gang violence

Senior detectives who had previously resigned or retired from the South African Police Service (SAPS) have been re-enlisted in the Western Cape, officials have announced.

As police resources dwindl

T20 World Cup: Special prayer in Madurai for India's victory in final

Sat, 07 Mar 2026 06:00:01 GMT

Madurai (Tamil Nadu) [India], March 7 (ANI): A special prayer was held in Madurai seeking victory for the Indian team in the T20 World Cup final between India and New Zealand, scheduled to take place on Sunday.

The prayer was conducted at the Sri Maha Periyava Temple located in the S.S. Colony area of Madurai, under the auspices of Anushathin Anugraham.

Earlier, special abhishekams were performed to the ido

England women's cricket team shift training camp to South Africa after UAE cancellation

Sat, 07 Mar 2026 03:59:05 GMT

London [UK], March 7 (ANI): England Women's cricket team will travel to South Africa for a training camp after their planned preparatory tour to Abu Dhabi was cancelled due to the security situation in the Middle-East region.

A group of 30 players will assemble in Pretoria, where they will be divided into two squads for a five-match intra-squad series scheduled between March 10 and March 27. The squads have been

"I was definitely nervous": Shivam Dube opens up on bowling final over against England

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 19:32:17 GMT

Ahmedabad (Gujarat) [India], March 6 (ANI): India's star all-rounder Shivam Dube said he backed himself while bowling the last over against England in the T20 World Cup semi-final, focusing on delivering two crucial balls while defending 30 runs.

Dube admitted he was nervous but ready to take on the challenge. With Jacob Bethell having already smashed a 45-ball century, Dube emphasised self-belief, which helped

"Never given a chance": Glenn Phillips compares NZ with "David" after entering ICC T20WC final

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 18:01:22 GMT

Ahmedabad (Gujarat) [India], March 6 (ANI): Glenn Phillips captured the 'New Zealand Paradox.' Despite consistently reaching the business end of ICC tournaments, the Black Caps are perpetually framed as the underdog--the 'David' to the cricket world's 'Goliaths.'

Comparing his team to David, the biblical underdog who defeated the giant Goliath, he highlighted that his team is often underestimated and not expected

"Hopeful that we will have good day against Bumrah": Glenn Phillips ahead of T20 WC final

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 18:00:46 GMT

Ahmedabad (Gujarat) [India], March 6 (ANI): New Zealand's star batter Glenn Phillips praised India's ace seamer Jasprit Bumrah as a class bowler with fantastic variations, especially in the death overs.

He recalled Kiwi's success against Bumrah in their bilateral series before the ongoing T20 World Cup and emphasised that Bumrah is human and can have a bad day, hoping they can capitalise on it.

Phillips r

Maritime traffic shifts to African coasts

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 14:07:05 GMT

Shipping activity near the Cape of Good Hope has increased by 35%

Merchant ship traffic near South Africa has surged as global shipping routes shift amid the escalating conflict in the Middle East.

Traffic near the Cape of Good Hope has risen by about 35%. According to platform MarineTraffic cited by Anadolu news agency, around 94 vessels per day are now passing the southern tip of Africa.

Ramaphosa deploys soldiers to fight crime in hotspots

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 10:01:01 GMT

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa smiles before delivering his State of the Nation (SONA) address in Cape Town, South Africa, February 12, 2026. /CFP

President Cyril Ramaphosa has authorized the deployment of South African National Defence Force (SANDF) troops to crime hotspots in the country to assist police in tackling illegal mining among other crimes , under an operation dubbed Operation P

Eliud Kipchoge to launch marathon world tour in Cape Town

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 06:22:27 GMT

Kenyan long-distance running legend Eliud Kipchoge celebrates after crossing the finish line during the 2025 Sydney Marathon in Sydney, Australia, August 31, 2025. /CFP

Two-time Olympic champion Eliud Kipchoge will run his first-ever marathon on African soil when he competes in the Cape Town Marathon on May 24.

Kipchoge, often considered the greatest long-distance runner in history

South Africans urged to tackle violence against women and children

Sun, 08 Mar 2026 09:31:37 GMT

File photo: South Africa has a femicide rate that is five times higher than the global average, according to UN Women, and has grappled with the problem for decades, as of Dec 4, 2025. /Reuters

As South Africa joins the global community in observing International Women's Day, the government has urged citizens to take proactive steps to eliminate the underlying attitudes and behaviors that perpetuate

South African miners to bid for manganese export terminal concession

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 11:19:11 GMT

A worker at the Lauzoua manganese mine in Cote d'Ivoire, December 4, 2013. /CFP

A consortium of South African manganese miners plans to bid to build and operate a new export terminal at Port of Ngqura in Eastern Cape, African Rainbow Minerals (ARM) said on Friday.

ARM, whose unit Assmang is a member of the Manganese Producers Consortium (MPC), said private companies were keen to partner with

Why the West may come to mourn Ayatollah Khamenei

Sat, 07 Mar 2026 19:30:00 GMT

The assassinationof Iran's Leader Ayatollah Khamenei in an unprovoked first strike,starting an illegal war, may come back to haunt the United States andIsrael, as well as Australia.Dal Oubacomments.

RESPECTED BY millions around the world, yet misunderstood and misrepresented by his own adversaries, the life and death of Iran's Supreme Leader AyatollahAli Khameneiwill have significant repercussion

Why the West may come to mourn Ayatollah Ali Khamenei

Sat, 07 Mar 2026 19:30:00 GMT

The assassinationof Iran's Leader Ayatollah Khamenei in an unprovoked first strike,starting an illegal war, and may come back to haunt the United States andIsrael, as well as Australia.Dal Oubacomments.

RESPECTED BY millions around the world, yet misunderstood and misrepresented by his own adversaries, the life and death of Iran's Supreme Leader AyatollahAli Khameneiwill have significant repercus

South Africa's stock exchange lists 1st China-focused AMETF

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 12:45:27 GMT

JOHANNESBURG, March 11 (Xinhua) -- The Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) on Wednesday listed the Prescient China Balanced Feeder Actively Managed Exchange Traded Fund (AMETF), trading under the ticker PANDA.

The fund aims to achieve long-term capital growth by investing primarily in a global fund focused on the Chinese market.

According to the JSE, the fund holds a diverse mix of Chinese equities, governm

South Africa's economy recovery remains "slow and uneven," warns expert

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 18:15:50 GMT

JOHANNESBURG, March 10 (Xinhua) -- Though South Africa's economy grew by 1.1 percent in 2025, an economist warned Tuesday that the pace of expansion remains "slow and uneven" amid persistent structural challenges.

According to the latest data released by Statistics South Africa (Stats SA), the country's gross domestic product (GDP) increased by 0.4 percent in the fourth quarter of 2025, marking the fifth consecu

South Africa's GDP grows by 1.1 pct in 2025

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 15:45:20 GMT

JOHANNESBURG, March 10 (Xinhua) -- South Africa's gross domestic product (GDP) increased by 1.1 percent in 2025, according to data released by Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) on Tuesday.

The economy expanded by 0.4 percent in the fourth quarter of 2025, marking the fifth consecutive quarter of growth, following a revised increase of 0.3 percent in the third quarter.

Stats SA said the country's 2025 gro

Chinese car brands gain momentum in South Africa's competitive auto market

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 13:45:29 GMT

by Ntandoyenkosi Ncube

JOHANNESBURG, March 10 (Xinhua) -- Chinese automotive brands are rapidly expanding their footprint in South Africa, with their market share growing faster than many expected as local consumers increasingly prioritize affordability, technology, and value, industry executives say.

Market observers note that the rise of Chinese vehicles is largely driven by a strong value proposition i

Tucker Carlson helped make Donald Trump and JD Vance. Could he be the next president?

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 13:39:14 GMT

Print article

It's well known that Donald Trump consumes television broadcasts and often makes policy based more on Fox News punditry than advice from political or government advisors. So it's unsurprising that one of his most influential adv

Xinhua Headlines: China's five-year roadmap bets big on innovation in strategic leap

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 07:46:48 GMT

BEIJING, March 10 (Xinhua) -- Inside Beijing's conference rooms, the final draft of China's 15th Five-Year Plan is being scrutinized. A centerpiece of the top-level roadmap sets out a profound internal gear shift to transform the world's factory into a global innovation powerhouse by 2030.

Building a modern industrial system with advanced manufacturing as its backbone and moving fast to achieve greater sci-tech

Interview: China's 15th Five-year Plan to create opportunities for Africa, says South African scholar

Sun, 08 Mar 2026 14:15:17 GMT

by Ndumiso Mlilio

JOHANNESBURG, March 8 (Xinhua) -- As China kicks off the first year of its 15th Five-Year Plan, the focus is shifting from rapid growth to building industrial depth and institutional strength, a move that is set to consolidate global supply chains and create new opportunities for Africa and the wider Global South, said Tebogo Lefifi, a scholar at University of Cape Town.

In a recent inte

Feature: Chinese wholesale hubs provide employment opportunities for youth in South Africa

Sun, 08 Mar 2026 10:45:17 GMT

by Ntandoyenkosi Ncube

JOHANNESBURG, March 8 (Xinhua) -- Chinese-owned trading businesses are playing a growing role in job creation in South Africa, providing opportunities for many people in a country struggling with high unemployment.

South Africa's official unemployment rate stood at 31.4 percent in the fourth quarter of 2025, according to Statistics South Africa. Against this backdrop, small and medi

South African police seize large drug shipments at OR Tambo airport

Sun, 08 Mar 2026 10:15:23 GMT

JOHANNESBURG, March 8 (Xinhua) -- South African police have intercepted two separate drug shipments with a combined value of 2.8 million rands (about 169,000 U.S. dollars) at OR Tambo International Airport this week, local media reported on Sunday.

During a routine inspection at a cargo warehouse on Wednesday, police officers uncovered a consignment of crystal meth valued at 2.2 million rands, the report said, c

Middle East tensions threaten South African, global economy, warns expert

Sat, 07 Mar 2026 15:45:29 GMT

JOHANNESBURG, March 7 (Xinhua) -- The escalating conflict in the Middle East is poised to have profound consequences for South Africa's economy and the global market, a senior researcher warned on Saturday.

Na'eem Jeenah of South Africa's Mapungubwe Institute for Strategic Reflection shared his insights with Xinhua following the Feb. 28 strikes by the United States and Israel against Iran.

Jeenah highligh

Feature: Lesotho's Moshoeshoe Walk unites culture, community, and cross-border friendship

Sat, 07 Mar 2026 15:15:18 GMT

by Xinhua writer Hang Zebo, Bai Ge

MASERU, March 7 (Xinhua) -- As the first light of dawn broke over the peaks of northern Lesotho, the quiet village of Menkhoaneng sprang to life with songs and dance. Under swirling mountain mist, thousands of participants gathered to embark on a journey steeped in the country's history.

The Moshoeshoe Walk 2026, a 116-km trek from Thursday to Saturday, retraces the hist

Fire breaks out at China Mall in S. Africa's Durban

Sat, 07 Mar 2026 10:45:18 GMT

JOHANNESBURG, March 7 (Xinhua) -- A fire broke out late Friday night at the China Mall in the Springfield area in South Africa's Durban, local media reported Saturday.

The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC), quoting the eThekwini Fire Department, reported that at least 14 units in the mall were damaged in the blaze.

It added that firefighters remain on the scene working to fully contain the fir

Renault Mini Duster Details Leaked Ahead Of Its Grand Unveil Tomorrow

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 03:56:31 GMT

Renowned car maker, Renault, is stepping up its game in India, which has emerged as one of the most important automotive markets of the world. The company will launch its most anticipated Duster SUV on February 17th. After that, there will be a Mini Duster in Indias highly competitive B SUV segment.

The company is set to showcase this Mini Duster in the form ofBridger Concept, which will make its grand debut tomo

Matt Smith represents South Africa in his debut at Winter Olympics

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 07:03:19 GMT

Matt Smith is representing South Africa in cross-country skiing at the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Games. But just four years ago, even he couldn't fathom the idea of soon becoming an Olympian. The 35-year-old sat down with CGTN's Dan Williams to share his story.

Smith revealed that he turned to winter sports after meeting a Mexican cross-country skier in Norway about three years ago.

"He was my inspiratio

General Assembly Adopts Three Texts Covering Road Safety, International Days on Coffee, Wellness, as United States Opposes All

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 21:17:50 GMT

After hearing an address by the President of the Philippines, the General Assembly today adopted three draft resolutions concerning an upcoming high-level meeting on global road safety, as well as two international observances — all of which were opposed by the United States.

The first such text was the draft resolution titled “Scope, modalities, format and organization of the high-

Womens Commission Annual Session Begins with Contentious Recorded Vote to Adopt Outcome Document, Calls to End Backlash against Gender Equality

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 22:24:25 GMT

The General Assembly hall filled with feminists from around the world as the Commission on the Status of Women began its annual two-week gathering with a contentious recorded vote to adopt its outcome document.

By a recorded vote of 37 in favour to 1 against (United States), with 6 abstentions, the Commission adopted its Agreed Conclusions (document