New Zealand's early breakthroughs had India struggling at 30/3, but Shreyas Iyer's resilient 75-ball half-century helped stabilize the innings. Iyer, adapting smartly to New Zealand's tactics, formed a crucial 98-run partnership with Axar Patel, laying a platform for the slog overs. His performance highlighted his improved technique and vital role as India's No.4 in ODIs.
Related news
Entertainment highlights include Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma's trip to Alibaug with their children, Sonakshi Sinha requesting privacy from paparazzi, Varun Dhawan's new look for Border 2, updates on Tiku Talsania's recovery from a brain stroke, and Avneet Kaur attending a Coldplay concert.
Former Pakistan red-ball coach Jason Gillespie has publicly criticised the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), alleging he is still owed payment for his services. Gillespie's abrupt departure followed disagreements over team decisions and support staff appointments. He reportedly felt sidelined and ignored by PCB officials, despite volunteering to coach the white-ball squad.
The NFL Christmas Day games on Netflix set new records, featuring performances by Beyonce and Mariah Carey. Mariah's rendition of 'All I Want For Christmas Is You' evoked nostalgia among fans, while Beyonce's halftime show saw peak viewership. Lamar Jackson of the Baltimore Ravens expressed excitement about witnessing Beyonce live for the first time.
Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Budget 2025 in Lok Sabha, focusing on relief for middle-class taxpayers, farmers, and women entrepreneurs. Key initiatives include no tax for income up to Rs 12 lakh, PM Dhan Dhyan Krishi Yojana, a rural prosperity program, and Makhana Board for Bihar.
Bengal has discovered the world's smallest and lightest wild cat, the rusty-spotted cat, in its Purulia district. This species, considered near threatened on the IUCN Red List, was spotted for the first time in the state, adding to the region's biodiversity.
During the early hours of Mauni Amavasya at Maha Kumbh, a stampede at Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj resulted in 30 deaths, predominantly women. The chaos erupted as police tried to manage the crowd, leading to overcrowded conditions and a surge of people towards the river.
Due to the ongoing wildfires in Los Angeles, the Academy has extended the Oscar nomination voting period until January 14 and rescheduled the announcement of nominees to January 19. Several events have been postponed or canceled. The 2025 Oscars ceremony remains scheduled for March 2. The wildfires have caused significant damage and displacements in the entertainment industry.
Justin Trudeau, in an emotional speech as he steps down as Canadian Prime Minister, emphasized Canada facing critical economic challenges due to US tariffs. His successor, Mark Carney, accused Trump of undermining Canadian workers and vowed retaliation. The upcoming trade war and election period are set to define Canada's future direction under Carney's leadership.
India and France partnered to transform New Delhi's North and South Blocks into the Yuga Yugeen Bharat National Museum. External affairs minister S Jaishankar highlighted this as a key cultural collaboration and a demonstration of India's soft power. The museum will showcase India's 5,000-year history and is envisioned as a global cultural landmark.
A school principal in Dhanbad allegedly made 80 Class X girls remove their shirts with messages during Pen Day, leading to an investigation by a five-member committee formed by the deputy commissioner. Parents and an MLA demanded action against the principal, who denies the allegations. The committee is reviewing CCTV footage and questioning staff members to gather more information.