Times of India

Ukraine's President Zelenskyy criticized a US decision to temporarily ease sanctions on Russian oil, warning it could provide Moscow billions for the war and undermine peace efforts. French President Macron echoed concerns, stating Russia is mistaken if it believes the Middle East conflict offers respite. The US claims the waiver aims to stabilize global energy markets.

The Pittsburgh Penguins are still tracking the progress of captain Sidney Crosby, who sustained injuries at the 2026 winter Olympics. Recent news by Vegas Golden Knights forward Mitch Marner has given insight into the gravity of the problem. Marner reported that Crosby was sprained with Grade 2 of an MCL, which means that the Penguins awaited the return of the captain.

US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth claimed Iran's new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, is wounded and "likely disfigured" following an air strike. Hegseth cited the absence of a voice or video message from Khamenei as evidence of his condition and lack of legitimacy. Meanwhile, Iranian President's son stated Khamenei is "safe and sound."

Sohail Tanvir’s winning run in the 2008 IPL final symbolically marked the last meaningful appearance of Pakistani players in the league. After the 2008 Mumbai attacks, political tensions led to their exclusion from IPL auctions. Though Azhar Mahmood later played as a British citizen, Pakistani players remain effectively barred due to visa issues, political risk, and commercial pressures.

The San Francisco 49ers are strongly linked to signing veteran defensive end Joey Bosa. He may play alongside his younger brother, Nick Bosa, who is also a defensive end. While Joey’s experience and talent are undeniable, his age and the 49ers’ 2026 strategy of preferring younger talent could become potential obstacles to a right priced deal. Else, the fans and analysts have always wanted to brothers play for one team.

Aditya Dhar's path to directing success was challenging. Veteran filmmaker Priyadarshan shares insights into Dhar's early struggles and his dedication. Dhar worked as an assistant director for Priyadarshan for three years. He faced setbacks before his breakthrough films. Dhar's upcoming movie Dhurandhar: The Revenge is set for release. Priyadarshan congratulated Dhar on his achievements.

A controversial run-out of Salman Ali Agha in the second ODI between Bangladesh and Pakistan has ignited social media debate. Agha, believing the ball dead, bent to retrieve it, only for Bangladesh skipper Mehidy Hasan Miraz to swiftly dislodge the bails. Despite Agha's strong knock, his dismissal triggered a Pakistan collapse, impacting the match's outcome.

Iran's national football team has firmly stated that no entity can prevent their participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, directly countering US President Donald Trump's safety concerns. The team emphasized that FIFA governs the tournament and their qualification was earned through merit, questioning the host's ability to ensure security if they cannot.

Two years ago, Gautam Gambhir was appointed Team India's coach after he mentored the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to the Indian Premier League (IPL) title. With the next T20 extravaganza cycle underway, IPL 2026 should be the audition for India's next T20I captain. The selectors must keep their eyes open because choosing the right man for the captaincy will not be easy.

Two Indian nationals have died and 10 others were injured in an attack in Sohar city, Oman. Five of the injured have been discharged from the hospital, while the remaining five are receiving medical treatment. Indian authorities are in contact with Omani officials and are providing assistance to the affected nationals.

The BCCI has no say in Sunrisers signing Pakistan spinner Abrar Ahmed for The Hundred. This is an overseas league. The franchise faces social media criticism. Owner Kavya Maran is targeted. The official X account of Sunrisers Leeds was reportedly suspended. The BCCI cannot intervene in this matter. The franchise has not issued a statement.

Thousands of Chinese fishing boats formed unusual geometric patterns in the East China Sea, raising questions about potential military or strategic mobilization. Experts suggest these large-scale, coordinated gatherings, unlike normal fishing, may indicate preparations for crisis scenarios involving Taiwan or Japan.

Former England youth international Amy Carr has sadly passed away at the age of 35 after fighting a brain tumour for more than a decade. Carr, who once played for top clubs such as Chelsea F.C. Women, Arsenal W.F.C., and Reading F.C. Women, inspired many people through her courage and determination during her illness. She was first diagnosed with a high-grade brain tumour in 2015.

US President Trump claimed that Iran is "about to surrender" during a G7 call earlier this week, while describing Iran regime as removing a "cancer." Amidst escalating regional strikes, Iran reportedly targeted the USS Abraham Lincoln, though the US denied the incident. CENTCOM confirmed the carrier strike group's ongoing support for operations.

Atlassian has laid off approximately 1,600 employees, about 10% of its global workforce, to invest more in AI and enterprise sales. The cuts primarily affected R&D roles. CEO Mike Cannon-Brookes highlighted the difficult decision, emphasizing the need for competitiveness. The company is offering generous severance packages, with redundancy and office exit costs estimated at over $236 million.

High-energy lasers are emerging as a cost-effective defense against drones and missiles, with costs as low as $3.50 per shot compared to millions for missile interceptors. Despite decades of development and some deployments, challenges remain in scaling the technology for widespread military use due to environmental limitations and production hurdles.