Nandamuri Balakrishna ‘Overjoyed’ After Receiving Padma Bhushan

 Nandamuri Balakrishna ‘Overjoyed’ After Receiving Padma Bhushan

Veteran Telugu actor and Hindupur MLA Nandamuri Balakrishna was presented India’s third-highest civilian honour, the Padma Bhushan, by President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Monday. The ceremony recognized his five decades of contributions to Indian cinema and public service. (Nandamuri Balakrishna 'Overjoyed' After Receiving Padma Bhushan, Nandamuri Balakrishna reacts to getting Padma Bhushan award ...)

Speaking to ANI afterward, Balakrishna said, “I am overjoyed. I am thankful to my fans. I also thank the Government of India.” He went on to note the scope of his support network—“I have 4,500 registered fans from Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Odisha and beyond”—and expressed heartfelt gratitude to each one. (Nandamuri Balakrishna reacts to getting Padma Bhushan award ..., What Is Nandamuri Balakrishna's First Comment After Padma ...)

Reflecting on the timing of the award, Balakrishna remarked that while many felt he merited the Padma honour earlier, “the timing is right because I’ve delivered four hit films, it’s been 15 years since I became Chairman of the Basavatarakam Indo-American Cancer Hospital, and I have completed 50 years as an actor.” (Nandamuri Balakrishna reacts to getting Padma Bhushan award ..., Padma Bhushan Award: Balakrishna Expresses Gratitude)

Alongside Balakrishna, the 2025 Padma Bhushan list included Tamil star Ajith Kumar, acclaimed filmmaker Shekhar Kapur, and playback singers Arijit Singh and Jaspinder Narula, underscoring the award’s recognition of diverse artistic achievements. (Nandamuri Balakrishna reacts to getting Padma Bhushan award ...)

On the work front, Balakrishna was last seen in the action drama Daaku Maharaj and is slated to reprise his dual roles in Boyapati Srinu’s forthcoming Akhanda sequel, continuing a career marked by both box-office success and community service. (Nandamuri Balakrishna reacts to getting Padma Bhushan award ...)

Here’s the latest on the sharp uptick in India–Pakistan tensions following the deadly Pahalgam attack on April 22, 2025:

 Here’s the latest on the sharp uptick in India–Pakistan tensions following the deadly Pahalgam attack on April 22, 2025:

Cross-Border Flare-Up
Since the ambush in Pahalgam that killed 26 mostly Hindu tourists, both sides have exchanged fire along the Line of Control. India’s Border Security Force reports several skirmishes as it hunts the militants, while Pakistan’s military says it has taken “strategic measures” in anticipation of any Indian action. (India, Pakistan trade gunfire as tensions rise over deadly Kashmir ..., Pakistan defence minister says military incursion by India is imminent)

Political and Diplomatic Fallout

• India’s Response: New Delhi has suspended the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty, revoked visas for Pakistani nationals, and expelled Pakistan’s military attaché. Hard-line groups in India are demanding further retaliation and boycotts of Pakistani goods. ('Pakistan is the root of the problem': Kashmir attack stokes anger in India, Pakistan defence minister says military incursion by India is imminent)

• Pakistan’s Stand: Islamabad denies any role in sponsoring the attack and condemns India’s treaty suspension as an “act of war.” Defence Minister Khawaja Asif warned that a military incursion by India is “imminent,” even as Pakistan appeals for a neutral investigation. (Pakistan defence minister says military incursion by India is imminent)

Regional and Global Reactions
China has urged both sides to exercise restraint, while the United States maintains quiet diplomatic channels but has stopped short of direct intervention. Several Gulf states and the UK have offered to mediate, though neither Islamabad nor New Delhi has formally accepted outside facilitation. (Pakistan defence minister says military incursion by India is imminent)

What’s Next?
Analysts fear that continued tit-for-tat measures—trade suspensions, border closures, and diplomatic downgrades—could spiral unless both governments agree to at least a temporary ceasefire. With the two nations still technically at war over Kashmir since 1947, any misstep risks broader escalation between these nuclear-armed neighbours.

• Reuters

• Al Jazeera

• The Guardian

Tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated sharply following a deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam

Tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated sharply following a deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on April 22, 2025, which resulted in the deaths of 26 tourists. India has accused Pakistan of supporting the attackers, leading to a series of retaliatory measures and raising concerns about potential conflict between the two nuclear-armed nations. (Indian military says Pakistani troops fired at positions along the border in disputed Kashmir, 2025 India–Pakistan border skirmishes - Wikipedia)

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🔥 Key Developments

1. Pahalgam Attack and Immediate Fallout

The attack, claimed by the militant group Kashmir Resistance—believed to be linked to Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba—has been described as the deadliest in the region since 2008. In response, India has suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, expelled Pakistani diplomats, and revoked visas for Pakistani nationals. Pakistan has denied involvement and has taken reciprocal actions, including expelling Indian diplomats and suspending trade and airspace access for Indian flights. (Kashmir attack: terrorists 'will face justice' after 26 deaths, India test-fires missiles as tensions rise with Pakistan after Kashmir attack, Terrorism in Kashmir is pushing India and Pakistan to the brink of war)

2. Military Escalation

Both countries have reported exchanges of gunfire along the Line of Control (LoC) in Kashmir. India has conducted missile tests and increased military presence in the region, while Pakistan has deployed fighter jets and emphasized its nuclear capabilities. (India test-fires missiles as tensions rise with Pakistan after Kashmir attack)

3. Water Dispute Intensifies

India's suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty has raised fears of a "water war," as the treaty governs the distribution of crucial river waters between the two countries. Pakistan relies heavily on these waters for agriculture and electricity. Any attempts by India to divert water flows are considered by Pakistan as acts of aggression. (Are India and Pakistan on the cusp of war over water?, 2025 India–Pakistan diplomatic crisis, Panic in Pakistan as India vows to cut off water supply over Kashmir)

4. International Reactions

The United Nations has called for restraint from both sides. While global powers have expressed concern, there has been limited direct intervention. The situation remains volatile, with the potential for further escalation if diplomatic solutions are not pursued. (Terrorism in Kashmir is pushing India and Pakistan to the brink of war, India test-fires missiles as tensions rise with Pakistan after Kashmir attack)

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🧭 Outlook

The current crisis underscores the fragility of India-Pakistan relations and the potential for rapid escalation. Both nations face internal pressures that may influence their foreign policy decisions. The international community's role in mediating and encouraging dialogue will be crucial in preventing further deterioration of the situation.

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For a visual overview of the escalating tensions, you may find the following video informative:

(Pakistan Deploys JF-17, Fears Indian Retaliation After ...)

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On April 22, 2025, a devastating terrorist attack unfolded in Baisaran Valley near Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, resulting in the deaths of 26 tourists and injuries to over 20 others.

  On April 22, 2025, a devastating terrorist attack unfolded in Baisaran Valley near Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, resulting in the deaths of 26 tourists and injuries to over 20 others. This incident stands as the deadliest civilian massacre in the region since the 2008 Mumbai attacks. (2025 Pahalgam attack)

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🔍 The Attack: What Happened

Around 3 p.m., five armed militants, dressed in military-style uniforms and equipped with AK-47s and M4 carbines, emerged from the dense pine forests surrounding Baisaran Valley—a popular tourist destination accessible only by foot or horseback. They opened fire on a group of tourists, predominantly targeting male Hindu visitors. Eyewitnesses reported that the assailants asked victims to recite Islamic verses and checked for circumcision to identify non-Muslims before executing them at close range. A local pony operator, Syed Adil Hussain, was killed while attempting to protect the tourists. (2025 Pahalgam attack)

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🕵️‍♂️ Investigation and Perpetrators

The Resistance Front (TRF), an offshoot of the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba, initially claimed responsibility, citing opposition to Indian government policies allowing non-locals to settle in Kashmir. However, TRF retracted its claim four days later, alleging a communications breach. (2025 Pahalgam attack)

Indian intelligence agencies have identified Saifullah Kasuri, also known as Khalid, a top Lashkar-e-Taiba commander, as the mastermind behind the attack. Investigations have linked the assailants to safe houses in Muzaffarabad and Karachi, Pakistan. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has taken over the probe, releasing sketches of three suspects and announcing a ₹60 lakh reward for information leading to their capture. (2025 Pahalgam attack)

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🌍 Domestic and International Reactions

Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the attack as a "heinous act" and vowed justice for the victims. The Indian government has suspended the Indus Waters Treaty and expelled Pakistani diplomats, accusing Pakistan of supporting cross-border terrorism. Pakistan denied involvement and retaliated by suspending the Simla Agreement, restricting trade, and closing airspace. (At least 26 tourists shot dead in Kashmir 'terror attack' after gunmen opened fire at beauty spot as manhunt launched, 2025 Pahalgam attack)

International leaders, including U.S. President Donald Trump and U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres, denounced the attack and expressed solidarity with India. (Militants kill at least 26 tourists at a resort in Indian-controlled Kashmir)

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📉 Impact on Tourism and Economy

The attack has severely impacted tourism in Kashmir, a region that had seen a resurgence in visitors, with over 3 million tourists in 2024. Following the incident, mass cancellations occurred, and airlines added return flights as tourists scrambled to leave. Local businesses, heavily reliant on tourism, expressed despair over the economic impact, describing the summer season as ruined. (Kashmir killings shatter Modi's tourism success in troubled region)

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🧭 Looking Ahead

The Pahalgam attack underscores the persistent instability in the region and the challenges in ensuring the safety of civilians and tourists. As investigations continue and security measures are intensified, the incident serves as a grim reminder of the ongoing threats posed by militant groups and the complexities of the Kashmir conflict.

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• AP News

• Reuters

• New York Post

Hindu Priests arrest unjust must be freed said by Bangladesh's Ex PM

Bangladesh former pm Sheikh Hasina on Thursday accept the arrest arrest of a Hindu leader Once edition charges and demanded his immediate release, She said security of life and religious freedom must be Insured for all communities. 

Hindu Priests arrest unjust must be freed said by Bangladesh's Ex PM

The Awami League President, Hasina Sheikh also requested to give punishment those are involved in the murder of a lawyer in Chattogram. She also said that the Unconstitutional government led by Mohammad Yunus has failed to provide Security to a common People, According to the X's Statement in Bengali language posted by Party account.  

Hasina also said a top leader of the Sanatan religious community has been unjustly arrested, who must be released immediately. She said her temple had been burnt in Chattogram, Recalling that mosques, Shrine churches monasteries and homes of the Ahmadiyya community were attacked, vandalized, looted and set on fire in the past.                

"Religious freedom and security of life and property of people of all communities should be ensured" Said Hasina, who was ousted on August 5 after a mass protest against her government.                                                                    

Meet The CEO Managing A $30 Billion Empire Alone With Only 30 Workers And No HR

 Pavel Durov: The Man Behind Telegram’s Lean and Powerful Operation

New Delhi: Pavel Durov, the 39-year-old founder and CEO of Telegram, runs his $30 billion enterprise with an astonishingly small team of just 30 employees—without even a formal human resources (HR) department. While this may seem unusual for a tech giant serving nearly a billion users, Durov has embraced a highly unconventional approach to managing his business. As the company’s self-proclaimed “only product manager,” he personally oversees operations and takes on recruitment duties, hiring top engineers through coding contests.

Meet The CEO Managing A $30 Billion Empire Alone With Only 30 Workers And No HR

A Remarkable Business Model Highlighted

This unique aspect of Telegram’s structure was recently brought into the spotlight by prominent Indian businessman Harsh Goenka, known for his social media commentary. In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter), Goenka marveled at the efficiency of Telegram’s model, writing, “Telegram, led by recently arrested founder Pavel Durov, has ~1B users, market cap $30bn, no ads, only 30 employees, and no HR (Durov runs the show solo, recruiting top talent through contests). Talk about lean!”

Despite its massive scale, with over 900 million users worldwide, Telegram’s staff size is minimal compared to other major tech companies. This has contributed to its reputation for being nimble and focused. The platform, founded in 2013 by Durov and his brother Nikolai, has become synonymous with privacy and flexibility. Telegram stands out not only for its robust encryption features but also for its ability to host large groups and sync seamlessly across multiple devices.

Pavel Durov: A Revolutionary Leader in Tech

Durov’s journey to becoming one of the tech world’s most enigmatic figures began in the former Soviet Union. A graduate of St. Petersburg University, he first gained recognition as the co-founder of VKontakte (VK), a social media platform that became widely popular in Russia. However, in 2014, Durov’s refusal to comply with Russian government requests for user data led to his forced departure from the country. Reflecting on this experience in a 2024 interview, he noted, “It was painful because my first company was my baby. But I realized that I would rather be free than take orders from anyone.”

X Open 🔗 Link

Now a billionaire with citizenship in France, the UAE, and Russia, Durov has turned Telegram into a global success. His strict focus on user privacy has helped the app stand out among its competitors, including WhatsApp. Today, Telegram is known not just as a messaging platform but as a symbol of freedom from intrusive governments and companies alike.

The Arrest and Ongoing Investigation

In recent months, Durov’s name has surfaced in headlines for more troubling reasons. On August 24, 2024, he was arrested at Le Bourget Airport near Paris by French authorities. This arrest is linked to a police investigation into allegations that Telegram has allowed criminal activity to occur unchecked on its platform. The investigation centers on the app’s lack of moderation and its limited cooperation with law enforcement agencies.

Sources familiar with the case, as cited by Reuters, suggest that the French authorities are concerned about Telegram’s failure to curb illicit activities, including its use by criminal groups. Despite the legal challenges, Durov has not commented publicly on the situation, though clips from his interview with Trucker Coulson following the arrest have garnered widespread attention.

The Future of Telegram Under Scrutiny

As the investigation continues, questions arise about Telegram’s future and how it will navigate the growing pressures from governments to regulate content on its platform. Telegram's focus on user privacy has won it legions of loyal followers, but it may also place the company at odds with legal systems worldwide. Whether Durov's unorthodox leadership style will help Telegram weather these challenges remains to be seen.

However, what’s clear is that Durov’s vision for Telegram has always been one of freedom—freedom from surveillance, freedom from ads, and freedom from bloated corporate structures. His minimalist approach to running a $30 billion company with just 30 employees might be a rare phenomenon in the tech world, but it speaks to his singular focus on independence and privacy, qualities that continue to define both the man and the app he created.

"Not acceptable": A Canadian landlord evicts an Indian renter and throws away his things due to a disagreement, leaving him defenseless.

 A video showing a Canadian landlord forcibly evicting an Indian tenant has gone viral, igniting a heated conversation on social media about tenant rights and landlord behavior, particularly for immigrants living abroad. The 15-second clip, which has already amassed over 1.7 million views, captures a tense moment where the tenant, shirtless and visibly distressed, watches helplessly as the landlord throws out his belongings. The incident, reportedly taking place in Brampton, Canada, highlights the complex relationship between landlords and tenants, especially in multicultural communities.

"Not acceptable": A Canadian landlord evicts an Indian renter and throws away his things due to a disagreement, leaving him defenseless.

The video was first shared by the popular X account “Ghar Ke Kalesh” (formerly known as Twitter), a platform known for sharing domestic disputes. In the caption, it was revealed that the tenant had allegedly refused to vacate the property, prompting the landlord to take matters into his own hands. The footage shows the landlord aggressively removing the tenant’s possessions, while the tenant, seemingly out of options, stands by powerless to intervene.

Background and Speculation

Many viewers have questioned what led to such an extreme situation, with some speculating that the tenant’s refusal to leave the premises might have forced the landlord’s hand. This act of self-eviction raises concerns about the rights of tenants, particularly those of immigrant backgrounds, who may feel more vulnerable in unfamiliar legal systems. For many, this video has sparked a broader discussion about how landlord-tenant disputes are handled, especially when it involves individuals far from their home country.

Mixed Reactions on Social Media

The public reaction to the video has been polarizing. On one side, many viewers expressed empathy for the tenant, criticizing the landlord for resorting to such drastic measures. One user wrote, “It’s heartbreaking to see someone thrown out like this, especially in a foreign land.” Others shared similar sentiments, with one remarking, “Landlords can be harsh, but the level of aggression here seems unwarranted.”

However, not everyone saw it that way. Some defended the landlord, arguing that the tenant should have complied with the request to leave. “If he was told to vacate, he should have done it—this is the consequence of refusing,” one comment read. Another added, “It’s typical desi drama, but the landlord’s response was definitely over the top.”

Humor and Cultural Commentary

Amidst the serious discussion, there were those who chose to inject humor into the situation, pointing out the cultural undertones of the dispute. One user jokingly commented, “The landlord went full Terminator mode! Unreal,” while another quipped, “Only in Brampton, the desi capital of Canada, would something like this happen.”

Broader Implications

While the video has sparked debate and varying reactions, it also highlights larger issues regarding immigrant experiences, housing challenges, and the handling of landlord-tenant conflicts in multicultural communities. As the clip continues to spread across social media, it serves as a stark reminder of the power dynamics that can arise in housing disputes, and how vulnerable tenants, especially those from immigrant backgrounds, can be when faced with such situations.

India's Expected XI For First T20I versus Bangladesh: Sanju Samson Promoted; Two Debutants In, Shivam Dube Out

 After a dominant 2-0 victory in the Test series, the Indian cricket team is set to take on Bangladesh in the first T20 International (T20I) of a three-match series this Sunday, October 6, at the newly inaugurated Shrimant Madhavrao Scindia Cricket Stadium in Gwalior. This match holds particular significance as it will be Suryakumar Yadav’s first time captaining the Indian team on home soil since his appointment as the full-time skipper for the T20 format.

India's Expected XI For First T20I versus Bangladesh: Sanju Samson Promoted; Two Debutants In, Shivam Dube Out

Test Players Absent for T20 Series  

As India looks ahead to the upcoming Test series against New Zealand, none of the players from the Test squad are included in the T20 series against Bangladesh. This means the Indian side will be without several key members of their World Cup-winning squad, including Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Axar Patel, and Kuldeep Yadav. The absence of these big names provides an opportunity for others to step up in what will be a relatively fresh and experimental lineup for the T20 series.

India’s Likely XI for the First T20I  

In terms of the playing XI for the first T20I, the Indian side has only selected one specialist opener, making Abhishek Sharma a certain starter at the top of the order. Since no other pure opening batter has been named in the squad, it is highly likely that wicketkeeper-batsman Sanju Samson will be promoted to open alongside Sharma.

At number three, captain Suryakumar Yadav is expected to reclaim his preferred spot in the batting order, where he will aim to anchor the innings. Riyan Parag, who was given a chance in the previous series in Sri Lanka, is likely to continue in the middle order at number four, getting an extended run in the team. 

The experienced all-rounder Hardik Pandya is set to return to action after a two-month break, taking his place at number five. Following him, Rinku Singh will bring finishing power at number six. 

Washington Sundar will likely fill the role of spin-bowling all-rounder, batting at number seven. As for the specialist spinner, Ravi Bishnoi is expected to lead the spin department. This decision may see Varun Chakravarthy miss out on the opening game as Bishnoi is favored to start. Arshdeep Singh will lead the pace attack, supported by two debutants, Harshit Rana and Mayank Yadav, who will be eager to make their mark on the international stage.

India’s Expected Playing XI for 1st T20I vs Bangladesh:  

- Abhishek Sharma  

- Sanju Samson (WK)  

- Suryakumar Yadav (C)  

- Riyan Parag  

- Hardik Pandya  

- Rinku Singh  

- Washington Sundar  

- Ravi Bishnoi  

- Harshit Rana  

- Arshdeep Singh  

- Mayank Yadav  

India’s Full Squad for Bangladesh T20Is:  

Suryakumar Yadav (C), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (WK), Rinku Singh, Hardik Pandya, Riyan Parag, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Shivam Dube, Washington Sundar, Ravi Bishnoi, Varun Chakravarthy, Jitesh Sharma (WK), Arshdeep Singh, Harshit Rana, Mayank Yadav.

As the team enters this T20 series, the focus will be on balancing experimentation with performance, providing younger players with a platform while still aiming to secure the series against Bangladesh.

Mamata Banerjee Reacts To The Demand That Bengal Ban The Durga Puja Festival: "They Ought to Know..."

 Amid growing calls from certain protest groups to boycott the Durga Puja festival in light of the disturbing rape and murder case at R.G. Kar Medical College, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee addressed the issue on Wednesday. She spoke at the launch of the special puja edition of the Trinamool Congress’ (TMC) publication, *Jago Bangla* (Wake up, Bengal), where she strongly defended the importance of festivals in the state’s cultural identity.

Mamata Banerjee Reacts To The Demand That Bengal Ban The Durga Puja Festival: "They Ought to Know..."

Responding to the concerns raised by some, Banerjee stressed that West Bengal’s traditions are inseparable from its year-round festivities. "There are many asking why we are indulging in celebrations during such times," she remarked. "But they must understand that the essence of Bengal is rooted in its rich culture of celebrations. Our festivals are for everyone, and they bring people together."

She pointed out that Durga Puja, in particular, is a much-anticipated festival, not just for religious reasons but as a community event that kicks off the entire festive season. "People wait all year for Durga Puja," Banerjee added. "And after Durga Puja, there’s a cascade of festivals—Diwali, Kali Puja, Chhath Puja—that continues all the way until Christmas."

In the same speech, Banerjee addressed the ongoing unrest among junior doctors, who have resumed their full-scale strike just ahead of Durga Puja. A day prior, the Supreme Court had urged doctors to resume essential services while negotiations continue. However, the doctors have remained firm in their protest, demanding the government address their concerns regarding safety and security in hospitals.

The strike initially began on August 9, following the discovery of a junior doctor’s body in a seminar room at R.G. Kar Medical College, where she was allegedly raped and murdered. Despite Banerjee’s repeated pleas to the doctors during the first 42-day phase of their strike, which lasted until late September, the protests have intensified. Banerjee had previously requested that the junior doctors return to work, noting that the people of Bengal have been eagerly awaiting the Durga Puja celebrations, and such disruptions could dampen the festive spirit.

Banerjee’s remarks underscore the deep cultural significance of Durga Puja in West Bengal, where festivals serve not only as religious events but as key moments of community bonding and celebration. Despite the tragic circumstances surrounding the protests, she reaffirmed that the state's spirit of festivity must continue, as it reflects the values and identity of Bengal itself.

Dropped Batsman Sends Reminder To Rohit Sharma And Gautam Gambhir With A Century In The Irani Cup, Released By Team India

 After being dropped from India's playing XI and released to participate in the Irani Cup, Sarfaraz Khan made a powerful statement with a remarkable century. The right-handed batsman completed his hundred just before the lunch break on the second day, sending a strong reminder to captain Rohit Sharma and head coach Gautam Gambhir of his undeniable talent and form. His brilliant innings underscored why he deserves another chance in India's Test squad.

Dropped Batsman Sends Reminder To Rohit Sharma And Gautam Gambhir With A Century In The Irani Cup, Released By Team India

Sarfaraz had been a consistent performer in domestic cricket, which led to his maiden call-up for the Indian team during the England Test series earlier in 2024. Making his debut in Rajkot, he played three Tests in that series, amassing 200 runs with an impressive average of 50. However, with KL Rahul’s return for the Bangladesh Test series, Sarfaraz found himself benched. Rahul, the former vice-captain, was given the nod to play both Tests, leaving Sarfaraz sidelined.

Despite his exclusion, Sarfaraz remained determined. Alongside teammates Dhruv Jurel and Yash Dayal, who were also left out of the playing XI, he was named in the Irani Cup squads. Since they weren't needed for the national team, the BCCI released the trio to showcase their talents in the domestic tournament. Yash Dayal has already made his presence felt by picking up two wickets, while Dhruv Jurel is set to bat for the Rest of India team.

Meanwhile, veteran Mumbai captain Ajinkya Rahane fell agonizingly short of a well-deserved century on the second day. After Mumbai lost three early wickets, Rahane steadied the ship with a crucial 102-run partnership alongside Shreyas Iyer, who contributed a valuable 57 runs. Following Iyer’s dismissal, Rahane found support from Sarfaraz Khan, and together they added 131 runs for the fifth wicket. Unfortunately, Rahane was dismissed just three runs short of his century, falling for 97 off 234 balls. It was Yash Dayal who claimed the prized wicket of the Mumbai skipper.

Rahane’s near-century, while impressive, might not be enough to revive his international career. The Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee has made it clear that they are looking to the future, opting not to recall either Rahane or Cheteshwar Pujara, even when their experience could have been useful against England. Instead, the committee has placed its trust in the younger generation, signaling that Rahane’s time at the international level may be drawing to a close.

For Sarfaraz Khan, however, his performance in the Irani Cup serves as a timely reminder of his abilities and a clear message that he still has much to offer on the biggest stage. Whether the selectors heed that message remains to be seen, but his determination and hunger for success are undeniable.