Times of India

Nitish Kumar Reddy scored his maiden Test and international hundred during the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne. Despite some anxious moments and tight drama as India lost wickets late on on Day 3, Reddy successfully reached the milestone off 171 balls. Bad light later stopped play with India at 358 for 9 in response to Australia's 474.

Traffic was disrupted on Jawaharlal Nehru Salai, near Koyambedu, as DMDK workers and others gathered for Vijayakanth’s first death anniversary. DMDK leaders and workers breached security and held a rally, leading to traffic diversions and congestion. Vehicles moved slowly while the crowd added to the chaos. Traffic resumed after police intervention.

Delhi received 41.2 mm of rain in the past 24 hours till 8.30 am on Saturday, marking the highest single-day December rainfall in 101 years. The heavy rainfall resulted from an active western disturbance and its interaction with easterly winds. The city's air quality improved to 'moderate,' with an AQI of 152.

Sharmistha Mukherjee criticised Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge's proposal for a separate memorial for Dr Manmohan Singh, pointing out that the Congress did not convene a condolence meeting for her late father, former President Pranab Mukherjee. She mentioned other leaders neglected by Congress due to not being part of the 'Gandhi' family, highlighting an ongoing issue.

The Boxing Day Test saw debutant Sam Konstas confront Virat Kohli on the first day, leading to Kohli's fine by the ICC after an accidental shoulder-bump. Despite Kohli's patient innings, he fell for 36 runs, intensifying their on-field rivalry as Konstas celebrated Kohli's dismissal vigorously.

Virat Kohli's shoulder-bump to Australia's debutant Sam Konstas during the fourth Test sparked some hostility from fans, leading to heckling as Kohli walked back after his dismissal. Melbourne Cricket Club CEO, Stuart Fox, stated there was no official complaint from India. Kohli's performance saw a century partnership with Jaiswal before a mix-up led to the latter's run-out, impacting India's innings.

US President Joe Biden expressed condolences on the passing of former Indian PM Manmohan Singh, praising his transformative leadership in economic liberalization and strategic US-India relations. Singh, who led India from 2004 to 2014, was lauded for his reforms and landmark legislations. Biden highlighted personal interactions and Singh's significant contributions to global cooperation.

Elon Musk calls for increased immigration to address the tech talent shortage, while facing criticism for his past involvement in anti-immigrant narratives. Musk's advocacy for H-1B reforms aligns with Silicon Valley's demand for skilled workers, despite conflicts with Republican leaders over immigration policies.

Olivia Hussey, known for her role in Franco Zeffirelli's 1968 film "Romeo and Juliet," passed away at 73. She and co-star Leonard Whiting had recently sued the studio over a controversial nude scene. The suit was dismissed. Hussey is remembered for her remarkable career and is survived by her husband, three children, and a grandchild.

Athena, a German Shepherd and Husky mix, escaped her home on December 15, sparking a weeklong search. She returned on Christmas Eve, ringing the doorbell at 2.30 am. Her owner, Brooke Comer, celebrated Athena's safe return, crediting community support. Athena will undergo a veterinary exam and be microchipped to prevent future escapes.

Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, praised for the 2008 US-India Civil Nuclear Deal and economic reforms, passed away in New Delhi. Tributes from figures like Condoleezza Rice, Raja Krishnamoorthi, and Justin Trudeau highlight his contributions to India's economy, poverty alleviation, and international relations.

A 14-year-old girl from Auraiya accused her grandfather, father, and uncle of repeatedly raping her for about a year, resulting in a two-month pregnancy. The police arrested the accused and presented them in court. The girl escaped to her aunt's house after death threats and filed a complaint with the police.

Sam Konstas impressed with a fifty on his Test debut against India in the Boxing Day Test, confidently tackling Jasprit Bumrah. Bumrah reflects on the challenges of bowling in Australia while recognizing Konstas and Steve Smith as formidable opponents. The match remains pivotal with the series tied at 1-1.

Rajasthan police have begun conducting live raids and video chronicles, replacing traditional low-profile operations. Some officers support live broadcasts for transparency, but others believe they compromise tactics. Recent notable events include arrests, a dramatic rescue, and on-camera interrogations. The approach has sparked debate within the police department about the effectiveness and risks of such dramatics.

Krushna Raut, the son of a Surat watchman and housemaid, has overcome financial challenges to clear the CA final exam with an All India Rank (AIR) 36. His achievement promises a brighter future for his family, who have struggled with limited income for years.

Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba is preparing to move into his official residence despite its haunted reputation. This decision comes after inspecting and repairing the historic site. Ishiba expresses little concern about the supernatural tales, even though past prime ministers and their families have reported unsettling experiences since the residence's construction in 1929.

In Surat, a 35-year-old businessman, Smit Jivani, killed his wife and son, and injured his elderly parents before attempting suicide. Financial distress and rejection by relatives are suspected to be the triggers. Jivani's parents are in critical condition, while he has survived. The incident took place in the Rajhans Swapna Complex, Sarthana.

Sunil Gavaskar criticized Rishabh Pant for his irresponsible shot during a crucial moment on the third day of the fourth Test against Australia. Pant, with India's score at 191 for 5, attempted a risky shot and was caught out, drawing Gavaskar's ire for letting the team down. Gavaskar emphasized that such actions cannot be justified as natural game.

Nitish Kumar Reddy showcased exceptional batting skills in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series, impressing with scores of 41, 38*, 42, 42, and 16. During the Boxing Day Test against Australia, he scored his maiden Test fifty, helping India avoid the follow-on. Reddy's celebration with the 'Pushpa' gesture after reaching the milestone delighted cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar.