New Delhi, India 
The Big Bash League (BBL) 2024-25 edition kicked off in style on December 15. The Marcus Stoinis-led Stars lost the opening clash to Perth Scorchers and will now be up against Brisbane Heat in match 4 of the ongoing championship Down Under. The Colin Munro-led Heat will commence their campaign and aim for a winning start, whereas the Stars will be eager to avoid two successive defeats in a row.
Talking about the squads, the Stars are without Glenn Maxwell, who continues to recover from a hamstring injury. In his absence, Stoinis is leading the side and has the support of star players such as Tom Curran, Beau Webster, Adam Milne, etc. Meanwhile, Brisbane will bank upon Munro's T20 experience, Matt Renshaw, Paul Walter, Mitchell Swepson, and others for a fine start to the eight-team tournament.
<h2>HERE IS ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE LIVE STREAMING DETAILS OF THE CLASH:</h2>
Which stadium will host the Melbourne Stars vs Brisbane Heat match?
The Melbourne Stars vs Brisbane Heat match will be played at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Melbourne.
What time will the Melbourne Stars vs Brisbane Heat match start?
The Melbourne Stars vs Brisbane Heat match will start at 7:15 PM local time (1:45 PM IST).
Where to watch the Melbourne Stars vs Brisbane Heat match on TV?
The Melbourne Stars vs Brisbane Heat match will be telecast on Star Sports network in India.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/watch-akash-deep-sends-one-into-the-stands-after-india-avoid-follow-on-during-day-4-of-gabba-test-784625">WATCH: Akash Deep sends one into the stands after India avoid follow-on during Day 4 of Gabba Test</a>
Where to watch the Melbourne Stars vs Brisbane Heat LIVE Streaming online on OTT?
The Melbourne Stars vs Brisbane Heat match will be live-streamed on the Disney+Hotstar app and website in India.
<h2>Squads:</h2>
Melbourne Stars: Joe Clarke, Thomas Fraser Rogers, Sam Harper (wk), Marcus Stoinis (c), Hilton Cartwright, Beau Webster, Tom Curran, Hamish McKenzie, Adam Milne, Brody Couch, Blake Macdonald, Campbell Kellaway, Jonathan Merlo, Joel Paris
Brisbane Heat: Colin Munro (c), Jimmy Peirson (wk), Max Bryant, Matt Renshaw, Paul Walter, Jack Wildermuth, Tom Alsop, Xavier Bartlett, Matthew Kuhnemann, Will Prestwidge, Mitchell Swepson, Jack Wood, Daniel Drew, Tom Whitney

BBL 2024-25: Here is all you need to know about the live-streaming details of the match between Melbourne Stars and Brisbane Heat - 



New Delhi, India The Big Bash League (BBL) 2024-25 edition kicked off in style on December 15. The Marcus Stoinis-led Stars lost the opening clash to Perth Scorchers and will now be up against Brisbane Heat in match 4 of the ongoing championship Down Under. The Colin Munro-led Heat will commence their campaign and aim for a winning start, whereas the Stars will be eager to avoid two successive defeats in a row. Talking about the squads, the Stars are without Glenn Maxwell, who continues to recover from a hamstring injury. In his absence, Stoinis is leading the side and has the support of star players such as Tom Curran, Beau Webster, Adam Milne, etc. Meanwhile, Brisbane will bank upon Munro's T20 experience, Matt Renshaw, Paul Walter, Mitchell Swepson, and others for a fine start to the eight-team tournament. HERE IS ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE LIVE STREAMING DETAILS OF THE CLASH: Which stadium will host the Melbourne Stars vs Brisbane Heat match? The Melbourne Stars vs Brisbane Heat match will be played at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Melbourne. What time will the Melbourne Stars vs Brisbane Heat match start? The Melbourne Stars vs Brisbane Heat match will start at 7:15 PM local time (1:45 PM IST). Where to watch the Melbourne Stars vs Brisbane Heat match on TV? The Melbourne Stars vs Brisbane Heat match will be telecast on Star Sports network in India. Also read: WATCH: Akash Deep sends one into the stands after India avoid follow-on during Day 4 of Gabba Test Where to watch the Melbourne Stars vs Brisbane Heat LIVE Streaming online on OTT? The Melbourne Stars vs Brisbane Heat match will be live-streamed on the Disney+Hotstar app and website in India. Squads: Melbourne Stars: Joe Clarke, Thomas Fraser Rogers, Sam Harper (wk), Marcus Stoinis (c), Hilton Cartwright, Beau Webster, Tom Curran, Hamish McKenzie, Adam Milne, Brody Couch, Blake Macdonald, Campbell Kellaway, Jonathan Merlo, Joel Paris Brisbane Heat: Colin Munro (c), Jimmy Peirson (wk), Max Bryant, Matt Renshaw, Paul Walter, Jack Wildermuth, Tom Alsop, Xavier Bartlett, Matthew Kuhnemann, Will Prestwidge, Mitchell Swepson, Jack Wood, Daniel Drew, Tom Whitney

BBL 2024-25, Live Streaming: When & where to watch Melbourne Stars vs Brisbane Heat live on laptop, TV

New Delhi, India 
Match 5 of the Big Bash League (BBL) 2024-25 edition will see the Melbourne Renegades lock horns with Hobart Hurricanes in Geelong on Thursday (Dec 18). The Renegades, led by Will Sutherland, will be playing their second game of the eight-team tournament. The Renegades lost their opening clash to Sydney Sixers and will hope for a revival. Meanwhile, the Hurricanes will kick off their campaign and hope for a winning start.
From the Renegades, the focus will be on Jake Fraser-McGurk, Tim Seifert, Sutherland, Adam Zampa, Kane Richardson, Jacob Bethell, whereas the Hurricanes will bank upon keeper-batter Matthew Wade, Ben McDermott, Shai Hope, Chris Jordan, captain Nathan Ellis, etc. 
<h2>HERE IS ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE LIVE STREAMING DETAILS OF THE CLASH:</h2>
Which stadium will host the Melbourne Renegades vs Hobart Hurricanes match?
The Melbourne Renegades vs Hobart Hurricanes match will be played at the Simonds Stadium, Geelong.
What time will the Melbourne Renegades vs Hobart Hurricanes match start?
The Melbourne Renegades vs Hobart Hurricanes match will start at 7:15 PM local time (1:45 PM IST).
Where to watch the Melbourne Renegades vs Hobart Hurricanes match on TV?
The Melbourne Renegades vs Hobart Hurricanes match will be telecast on Star Sports network in India.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/he-could-have-said-i-am-sunil-gavaskar-critical-of-r-ashwins-sudden-international-retirement-784947">He could have said, 'I am....': Sunil Gavaskar critical of R Ashwin's sudden international retirement</a>
Where to watch the Melbourne Renegades vs Hobart Hurricanes LIVE Streaming online on OTT?
The Melbourne Renegades vs Hobart Hurricanes match will be live-streamed on the Disney+Hotstar app and website in India.
<h2>Squads:</h2>
Melbourne Renegades: Jake Fraser-McGurk, Josh Brown, Tim Seifert (w), Mackenzie Harvey, Laurie Evans, Will Sutherland (c), Fergus O Neill, Thomas Stewart Rogers, Kane Richardson, Adam Zampa, Gurinder Sandhu, Jacob Bethell, Jonathan Wells, Callum Stow
Hobart Hurricanes: Matthew Wade (w), Ben McDermott, Shai Hope, Caleb Jewell, Tim David, Nikhil Chaudhary, Chris Jordan, Mitchell Owen, Nathan Ellis (c), Riley Meredith, Peter Hatzoglou, Billy Stanlake, Waqar Salamkheil, Marcus Bean

BBL 2024-25: Here is all you need to know about the live-streaming details of the match between Melbourne Renegades vs Hobart Hurricanes - 



New Delhi, India Match 5 of the Big Bash League (BBL) 2024-25 edition will see the Melbourne Renegades lock horns with Hobart Hurricanes in Geelong on Thursday (Dec 18). The Renegades, led by Will Sutherland, will be playing their second game of the eight-team tournament. The Renegades lost their opening clash to Sydney Sixers and will hope for a revival. Meanwhile, the Hurricanes will kick off their campaign and hope for a winning start. From the Renegades, the focus will be on Jake Fraser-McGurk, Tim Seifert, Sutherland, Adam Zampa, Kane Richardson, Jacob Bethell, whereas the Hurricanes will bank upon keeper-batter Matthew Wade, Ben McDermott, Shai Hope, Chris Jordan, captain Nathan Ellis, etc. HERE IS ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE LIVE STREAMING DETAILS OF THE CLASH: Which stadium will host the Melbourne Renegades vs Hobart Hurricanes match? The Melbourne Renegades vs Hobart Hurricanes match will be played at the Simonds Stadium, Geelong. What time will the Melbourne Renegades vs Hobart Hurricanes match start? The Melbourne Renegades vs Hobart Hurricanes match will start at 7:15 PM local time (1:45 PM IST). Where to watch the Melbourne Renegades vs Hobart Hurricanes match on TV? The Melbourne Renegades vs Hobart Hurricanes match will be telecast on Star Sports network in India. Also read: He could have said, 'I am....': Sunil Gavaskar critical of R Ashwin's sudden international retirement Where to watch the Melbourne Renegades vs Hobart Hurricanes LIVE Streaming online on OTT? The Melbourne Renegades vs Hobart Hurricanes match will be live-streamed on the Disney+Hotstar app and website in India. Squads: Melbourne Renegades: Jake Fraser-McGurk, Josh Brown, Tim Seifert (w), Mackenzie Harvey, Laurie Evans, Will Sutherland (c), Fergus O Neill, Thomas Stewart Rogers, Kane Richardson, Adam Zampa, Gurinder Sandhu, Jacob Bethell, Jonathan Wells, Callum Stow Hobart Hurricanes: Matthew Wade (w), Ben McDermott, Shai Hope, Caleb Jewell, Tim David, Nikhil Chaudhary, Chris Jordan, Mitchell Owen, Nathan Ellis (c), Riley Meredith, Peter Hatzoglou, Billy Stanlake, Waqar Salamkheil, Marcus Bean

BBL 2024-25, Live Streaming: When & where to watch Melbourne Renegades vs Hobart Hurricanes live on laptop, TV

New Delhi, India 
Former Indian captain Kapil Dev expressed his disappointment with R Ashwin not getting a proper farewell post his decision to retire from international cricket on Wednesday (Dec 18). After the India-Australia third Test at The Gabba, Brisbane, ended in a draw, Ashwin announced his international retirement and flew back to India on Thursday (Dec 19). However, Kapil feels he should have received a proper farewell.
<h2>'I wish I had been there, I wouldn't have let him go like that'</h2>
"The next generation has to be better than us. If not, the world is not going ahead. We never imagined that somebody would come close to Sachin Tendulkar or Sunil Gavaskar...Ashwin has gone. I wish I had been there, I wouldn't have let him go like that. I would have sent him with a lot of respect and happiness," Kapil said, as quoted by ANI.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/i-have-zero-regrets-want-to-play-for-csk-as-long-as-possible-says-r-ashwin-post-his-international-retirement-785224">I have zero regrets, want to play for CSK as long as possible, says R Ashwin post his international retirement</a>
Ashwin signed off from international cricket with 765 wickets, second highest overall among Indians. In Tests, he represented India in 106 games and claimed 537 scalps, second-most by an Indian and seventh-overall, whereas he accounted for 228 wickets in white-ball formats overall. The 38-year-old wily off-spinner was part of India's memorable wins in the 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy. Ashwin also played a huge role in India's unbeaten run in home Tests, spanning from 2013-2024 (which ended in October).
Ashwin played only a solitary Test in the ongoing 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) between India and Australia Down Under. With the Rohit Sharma-led team management preferring Washington Sundar and Ravindra Jadeja over him, it reportedly prompted him to take the big call on his career.

Former Indian captain Kapil Dev is disappointed with R Ashwin's retirement and stated that he wouldn't have let him bow out like this.



New Delhi, India Former Indian captain Kapil Dev expressed his disappointment with R Ashwin not getting a proper farewell post his decision to retire from international cricket on Wednesday (Dec 18). After the India-Australia third Test at The Gabba, Brisbane, ended in a draw, Ashwin announced his international retirement and flew back to India on Thursday (Dec 19). However, Kapil feels he should have received a proper farewell. 'I wish I had been there, I wouldn't have let him go like that' "The next generation has to be better than us. If not, the world is not going ahead. We never imagined that somebody would come close to Sachin Tendulkar or Sunil Gavaskar...Ashwin has gone. I wish I had been there, I wouldn't have let him go like that. I would have sent him with a lot of respect and happiness," Kapil said, as quoted by ANI. Also read: I have zero regrets, want to play for CSK as long as possible, says R Ashwin post his international retirement Ashwin signed off from international cricket with 765 wickets, second highest overall among Indians. In Tests, he represented India in 106 games and claimed 537 scalps, second-most by an Indian and seventh-overall, whereas he accounted for 228 wickets in white-ball formats overall. The 38-year-old wily off-spinner was part of India's memorable wins in the 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy. Ashwin also played a huge role in India's unbeaten run in home Tests, spanning from 2013-2024 (which ended in October). Ashwin played only a solitary Test in the ongoing 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) between India and Australia Down Under. With the Rohit Sharma-led team management preferring Washington Sundar and Ravindra Jadeja over him, it reportedly prompted him to take the big call on his career.

Wouldn't have let Ashwin retire like this: Kapil Dev disappointed, says spinner deserves 'respect'

New Delhi, India 
R Ashwin shocked the cricketing fraternity by announcing his international retirement soon after the third Test between India and Australia, at The Gabba, Brisbane, ended in a draw. Ashwin ended his illustrious career with 537 Test scalps, only behind Anil Kumble (who tops the list for India with 619 wickets) and 228 wickets in white-ball formats.
Ashwin had a real chance of surpassing Kumble to become India's highest wicket-taker in the purest format. However, he retired in the middle of the ongoing 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT). Thus, Kumble reacted to his retirement and expressed his disappointment as he was backing Ashwin to surpass his wicket-tally.
"Congratulations, Ash, on a fantastic career. You’ve been a champion bowler for India, a champion all-rounder for India. You’ll certainly be missed. It’s not that easy, carrying that kind of expectation day in and day out. You’ve done it right throughout your career. You’ve been a match-winner for India, and Team India will certainly miss you," Kumble said in a video shared by ESPNcricinfo.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-2024-25-it-doesnt-help-cheteshwar-pujara-reveals-reason-behind-rohits-struggles-at-number-6-785179">BGT 2024-25: 'It doesn't help...,' Cheteshwar Pujara reveals reason behind Rohit's struggles at number 6</a>
"I, for one, am a bit disappointed that you ended your career today at the international level. Ideally, I would have wanted to see you go beyond 619, but you have your reasons for that," Kumble further opined.
"All the best to you in your second chapter. And I am sure it will be as glorious as chapter one. So, Ash, here’s to a fantastic career that you’ve had for India. And congratulations once again. All the very best. Catch you soon," the former Indian captain added.
Ashwin ends his career as India's second-highest wicket-taker in international cricket, finishing with 765 victims. Only Kumble is ahead of him, with 953 scalps.

Former India spinner Anil Kumble reacted to R Ashwin's sudden international retirement, expressing his disappointment as he wanted Ashwin to surpass his Test wicket tally (619).



New Delhi, India R Ashwin shocked the cricketing fraternity by announcing his international retirement soon after the third Test between India and Australia, at The Gabba, Brisbane, ended in a draw. Ashwin ended his illustrious career with 537 Test scalps, only behind Anil Kumble (who tops the list for India with 619 wickets) and 228 wickets in white-ball formats. Ashwin had a real chance of surpassing Kumble to become India's highest wicket-taker in the purest format. However, he retired in the middle of the ongoing 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT). Thus, Kumble reacted to his retirement and expressed his disappointment as he was backing Ashwin to surpass his wicket-tally. "Congratulations, Ash, on a fantastic career. You’ve been a champion bowler for India, a champion all-rounder for India. You’ll certainly be missed. It’s not that easy, carrying that kind of expectation day in and day out. You’ve done it right throughout your career. You’ve been a match-winner for India, and Team India will certainly miss you," Kumble said in a video shared by ESPNcricinfo. Also read: BGT 2024-25: 'It doesn't help...,' Cheteshwar Pujara reveals reason behind Rohit's struggles at number 6 "I, for one, am a bit disappointed that you ended your career today at the international level. Ideally, I would have wanted to see you go beyond 619, but you have your reasons for that," Kumble further opined. "All the best to you in your second chapter. And I am sure it will be as glorious as chapter one. So, Ash, here’s to a fantastic career that you’ve had for India. And congratulations once again. All the very best. Catch you soon," the former Indian captain added. Ashwin ends his career as India's second-highest wicket-taker in international cricket, finishing with 765 victims. Only Kumble is ahead of him, with 953 scalps.

'Bit disappointed you retired, wanted you to go past 619': Anil Kumble reacts to Ashwin's retirement

New Delhi, India 
The passengers on the ill-fated private boat that capsized Wednesday (Dec 18) off the Mumbai coast were not provided life jackets, which led to the tragic death of at least 13 people. Meanwhile, the AQI in Delhi reached a dangerous peak of 423 with the IMD issuing an orange alert warning that dense fog is expected in the city in the next two days. In other news, five terrorists were killed in a major operation by Indian security forces in the Kadder area of South Kashmir’s Kulgam district. 
Click on the headlines to read more
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mumbai-boat-tragedy-no-life-jackets-given-to-passengers-navy-driver-was-performing-stunts-785131">Mumbai boat tragedy: No life jackets given to passengers; navy driver was ‘performing stunts’</a>
<img alt="main img" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/19/471973-wion-web-team-bugs-and-banners-2024-12-19t083058653.jpg"/>
Passengers on the ill-fated private boat that capsized Wednesday (Dec 18) off the Mumbai coast were not given life jackets, leading to the tragic demise of at least 13 people. The boat, en route to Elephanta Island, reportedly collided with an Indian Navy speedboat near the Gateway of India.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-chokes-as-aqi-soars-to-423-imd-issues-orange-alert-amid-dense-fog-conditions-785156">Delhi chokes as AQI soars to 423, IMD issues orange alert amid dense fog conditions</a>
<img alt="main img" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/19/471986-untitled-design-26.jpg"/>
The Indian national capital woke up to chilly waves with 7 degrees Celsius battling with poor air quality as the AQI soared to 423 on Thursday (19 Dec). The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has declared an orange alert for Delhi and warned that there will be dense fog in the city for the next two days due to western disturbances.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-khamenei-dubs-women-as-delicate-flowers-as-calls-grow-to-amend-hijab-bill-785142">Iran’s Khamenei dubs women as ‘delicate flowers’ as calls grow to amend hijab bill</a>
<img alt="main img" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/19/471980-wion-web-team-bugs-and-banners-2024-12-19t090434525.jpg"/>
Amid ongoing debate in Iran over strict hijab laws, the country’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei Wednesday (Dec 18) dubbed women as ‘delicate flowers’. In a cryptic post on social media platform X, Khamenei, who is accused of curbing women's rights in the Shi’ite country, said women ‘need to be cared for’.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-forces-gun-down-five-terrorists-in-jammu-kashmir-two-soldiers-injured-785145">Security forces gun down five terrorists in India's Jammu-Kashmir, two soldiers injured</a>
<img alt="main img" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/07/18/444325-jammuterror-1.png"/>
In a major successful operation by Indian security forces, five terrorists were killed Thursday morning (Dec 19) in an encounter in the Kadder area of South Kashmir’s Kulgam district. Security forces earlier said that a group of terrorists was trapped after suspicious activity was observed in the area.
Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine's Zelensky Held Talks With NATO Chief
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Good morning! Start your day with WION's daily news brief. 



New Delhi, India The passengers on the ill-fated private boat that capsized Wednesday (Dec 18) off the Mumbai coast were not provided life jackets, which led to the tragic death of at least 13 people. Meanwhile, the AQI in Delhi reached a dangerous peak of 423 with the IMD issuing an orange alert warning that dense fog is expected in the city in the next two days. In other news, five terrorists were killed in a major operation by Indian security forces in the Kadder area of South Kashmir’s Kulgam district. Click on the headlines to read more Mumbai boat tragedy: No life jackets given to passengers; navy driver was ‘performing stunts’ Passengers on the ill-fated private boat that capsized Wednesday (Dec 18) off the Mumbai coast were not given life jackets, leading to the tragic demise of at least 13 people. The boat, en route to Elephanta Island, reportedly collided with an Indian Navy speedboat near the Gateway of India. Delhi chokes as AQI soars to 423, IMD issues orange alert amid dense fog conditions The Indian national capital woke up to chilly waves with 7 degrees Celsius battling with poor air quality as the AQI soared to 423 on Thursday (19 Dec). The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has declared an orange alert for Delhi and warned that there will be dense fog in the city for the next two days due to western disturbances. Iran’s Khamenei dubs women as ‘delicate flowers’ as calls grow to amend hijab bill Amid ongoing debate in Iran over strict hijab laws, the country’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei Wednesday (Dec 18) dubbed women as ‘delicate flowers’. In a cryptic post on social media platform X, Khamenei, who is accused of curbing women's rights in the Shi’ite country, said women ‘need to be cared for’. Security forces gun down five terrorists in India's Jammu-Kashmir, two soldiers injured In a major successful operation by Indian security forces, five terrorists were killed Thursday morning (Dec 19) in an encounter in the Kadder area of South Kashmir’s Kulgam district. Security forces earlier said that a group of terrorists was trapped after suspicious activity was observed in the area. Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine's Zelensky Held Talks With NATO Chief

Morning news brief: Mumbai boat tragedy update; Delhi AQI soars to 423, and more

New Delhi, India
The Enforcement Directorate has recorded the statements of actors Mallika Sherawat and Pooja Banerjee in a money laundering case against a betting website. The website is allegedly owned by Pakistani nationals and has illegally "broadcast Men's T20 World Cup matches".
The federal agency had undertaken fresh searches in this case last week in Delhi, Mumbai, and Pune as part of the probe against portal Magicwin.
Sources told PTI that ED had asked Sherawat and TV actor Pooja Banerjee to respond to some queries in this case by email or through an official representative.
They said 48-year-old Sherawat submitted her statement to the ED's Ahmedabad office last week by sending her replies through an authorised representative and email. At the same time, Banerjee was deposed before the investigation officer (IO) and got her statement recorded under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).
Sherawat has acted in a number of Hindi movies while Banerjee has been part of several TV shows including Kasautii Zindagii Kay.
Both their names were listed in the case as they were involved in some promotion activity related to Magicwin. They are, prima facie not found to be an accused in the case, as per the sources. The agency is expected to question some more actors and celebrities in this case soon.
The ED, in a statement issued on Tuesday, said a "launch party" held for the portal, where several "B-town celebrities" attended and endorsed Magicwin, is under its scanner.
These celebrities also did video and photo shoots for Magicwin and posted them on their social media accounts for its "promotion". Advertisements were also done through hoardings out of home (OOH) in various parts of India including Gujarat and Maharashtra, the agency said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/heres-what-disgraced-music-mogul-sean-diddy-combs-will-have-for-christmas-dinner-in-jail-785152">Here's what Sean "Diddy" Combs will have for Christmas dinner in jail</a>
<h2>The case against Magicwin</h2>
The money laundering case is based on an FIR registered by the cybercrime unit of the Ahmedabad Police in Gujarat. Magicwin, according to the agency, is a "betting" website "guised" as a gaming portal that is "actually owned" by Pakistani nationals.
The operations of this website are mostly handled by Indian nationals working or settled in Dubai, it said. "The betting games being shown on the website are originally played in the Philippines and other countries which allow betting activities," it said.
However, as per the investigation, the same is "re-telecast" on Magicwin's website by copying the APIs (application programming interface) of the original games.
The agency said betting activities like deposits, placing of betting and withdrawal are "controlled" by the "owners" of Magicwin.
The ED claimed its probe found that the money, deposited in the bank accounts by the players/betters, was "diverted" through layers of "shell and mule" bank accounts and further the profit part of the owners was invested in crypto assets, withdrawn in cash or sent to Dubai through Hawala channels.
The winning amounts of the players/betters were transferred to their bank accounts through merchant accounts of various shell companies maintained with payment gateways. These amounts were also transferred to the player's bank account through domestic money transfer, it said.
It said the profits generated by these betting websites are more than 50 per cent of the total deposits made by the players.
(With inputs from agencies)

The Enforcement Directorate has recorded the statements of actors Mallika Sherawat and Pooja Banerjee in a money laundering case against a betting website.



New Delhi, India The Enforcement Directorate has recorded the statements of actors Mallika Sherawat and Pooja Banerjee in a money laundering case against a betting website. The website is allegedly owned by Pakistani nationals and has illegally "broadcast Men's T20 World Cup matches". The federal agency had undertaken fresh searches in this case last week in Delhi, Mumbai, and Pune as part of the probe against portal Magicwin. Sources told PTI that ED had asked Sherawat and TV actor Pooja Banerjee to respond to some queries in this case by email or through an official representative. They said 48-year-old Sherawat submitted her statement to the ED's Ahmedabad office last week by sending her replies through an authorised representative and email. At the same time, Banerjee was deposed before the investigation officer (IO) and got her statement recorded under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). Sherawat has acted in a number of Hindi movies while Banerjee has been part of several TV shows including Kasautii Zindagii Kay. Both their names were listed in the case as they were involved in some promotion activity related to Magicwin. They are, prima facie not found to be an accused in the case, as per the sources. The agency is expected to question some more actors and celebrities in this case soon. The ED, in a statement issued on Tuesday, said a "launch party" held for the portal, where several "B-town celebrities" attended and endorsed Magicwin, is under its scanner. These celebrities also did video and photo shoots for Magicwin and posted them on their social media accounts for its "promotion". Advertisements were also done through hoardings out of home (OOH) in various parts of India including Gujarat and Maharashtra, the agency said. Also read: Here's what Sean "Diddy" Combs will have for Christmas dinner in jail The case against Magicwin The money laundering case is based on an FIR registered by the cybercrime unit of the Ahmedabad Police in Gujarat. Magicwin, according to the agency, is a "betting" website "guised" as a gaming portal that is "actually owned" by Pakistani nationals. The operations of this website are mostly handled by Indian nationals working or settled in Dubai, it said. "The betting games being shown on the website are originally played in the Philippines and other countries which allow betting activities," it said. However, as per the investigation, the same is "re-telecast" on Magicwin's website by copying the APIs (application programming interface) of the original games. The agency said betting activities like deposits, placing of betting and withdrawal are "controlled" by the "owners" of Magicwin. The ED claimed its probe found that the money, deposited in the bank accounts by the players/betters, was "diverted" through layers of "shell and mule" bank accounts and further the profit part of the owners was invested in crypto assets, withdrawn in cash or sent to Dubai through Hawala channels. The winning amounts of the players/betters were transferred to their bank accounts through merchant accounts of various shell companies maintained with payment gateways. These amounts were also transferred to the player's bank account through domestic money transfer, it said. It said the profits generated by these betting websites are more than 50 per cent of the total deposits made by the players. (With inputs from agencies)

Mallika Sherawat and Pooja Bannerjee questioned by ED over money laundering case linked to a betting website

United States/Canada
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Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), a banned organisation in India under the stringent Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), has claimed that the Russian embassy in Canada facilitated the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Khalistani terrorist, by sharing "signal intelligence) with the Indian intelligence agency, the Research and Analysis Wing (R&amp;AW). 
In a recent statement, SFJ leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, designated a terrorist by India, alleged that Indian Ambassador to the United States (US) Vinay Kwatra, in coordination with Russian Ambassador to Canada, Oleg Stepanov, was running a surveillance and spy network in the US and Canada. 
<h2>Russian embassy in Canada hacked Nijjar's Telegram account</h2>
Hardeep Singh Nijjar was shot dead by unidentified men on June 18 last year.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-assures-safety-of-indian-ambassador-kwatra-amid-threats-from-pannun-784958">US assures safety of Indian Ambassador Kwatra amid threats from Pannun</a>
Nijjar's death triggered a diplomatic row between Canada and India, with Ottawa saying it suspected India's involvement in the killing and New Delhi calling the allegation "absurd."
In his statement, Pannun said that the Russian embassy in Canada hacked Nijjar's Telegram account just weeks before his killing to facilitate India track his movements.
"Simultaneously, Russian Agency hacked Telegram account of Pannun, SFJ General Counsel, and shared location and movements with RAW Officials in planning the since foiled Murder For Hire Plot," the statement added.
<h2>Reward for tip on public engagements of Kwatra and Stepanov</h2>
Pannun also said that the SFJ has announced a $25,000 reward for providing a tip on any upcoming public engagements of Vinay Kwatra and Oleg Stepanov.
Also watch | Gravitas: Why is Canada protecting terrorist Pannun?
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/10/21/WEBCHUNK_GV_2110_PANNUN-1729531813-00000003.jpg&videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/WEBCHUNK_GV_2110_PANNUN.mp4/index.m3u8&duration=199&tags=pannun,Khalistan,Canada,Air India,gravitas" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
"Pro-Khalistan Sikhs are going to question the Indian and Russian ambassadors on their Role in violent attacks on pro-Khalistan Sikhs on Canadian and American Soil," he added. 
(With inputs from agencies)

Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, designated a terrorist by India, has said that Indian Ambassador to the United States (US) Vinay Kwatra, in coordination with Russian Ambassador to Canada, Oleg Stepanov, was running a surveillance and spy network in the US and Canada. 



United States/Canada Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), a banned organisation in India under the stringent Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), has claimed that the Russian embassy in Canada facilitated the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Khalistani terrorist, by sharing "signal intelligence) with the Indian intelligence agency, the Research and Analysis Wing (R&AW). In a recent statement, SFJ leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, designated a terrorist by India, alleged that Indian Ambassador to the United States (US) Vinay Kwatra, in coordination with Russian Ambassador to Canada, Oleg Stepanov, was running a surveillance and spy network in the US and Canada. Russian embassy in Canada hacked Nijjar's Telegram account Hardeep Singh Nijjar was shot dead by unidentified men on June 18 last year. Also read | US assures safety of Indian Ambassador Kwatra amid threats from Pannun Nijjar's death triggered a diplomatic row between Canada and India, with Ottawa saying it suspected India's involvement in the killing and New Delhi calling the allegation "absurd." In his statement, Pannun said that the Russian embassy in Canada hacked Nijjar's Telegram account just weeks before his killing to facilitate India track his movements. "Simultaneously, Russian Agency hacked Telegram account of Pannun, SFJ General Counsel, and shared location and movements with RAW Officials in planning the since foiled Murder For Hire Plot," the statement added. Reward for tip on public engagements of Kwatra and Stepanov Pannun also said that the SFJ has announced a $25,000 reward for providing a tip on any upcoming public engagements of Vinay Kwatra and Oleg Stepanov. Also watch | Gravitas: Why is Canada protecting terrorist Pannun? "Pro-Khalistan Sikhs are going to question the Indian and Russian ambassadors on their Role in violent attacks on pro-Khalistan Sikhs on Canadian and American Soil," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian embassy in Canada facilitated Hardeep Singh Nijjar's assassination: SFJ

New Delhi 
Chinese Ambassador to India, Xu Feihong, said that China agrees to work with India on the core interests of both nations. The statement came on Wednesday (Dec 18) ahead of Indian National Security Adviser Ajit Doval's meeting with China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Beijing. 
Meanwhile, Indian Home Minister Amit Shah faced intense criticism from the opposition lawmakers for his remarks on Dr BR Ambedkar. Shah said on December 17 that it has become a trend for the opposition to take the name of the Dalit icon Ambedkar. 
Moving ahead, a tragic incident happened in the Indian state of Mumbai where a passenger ferry with over 110 people capsized on Wednesday (Dec 18) near the Gateway of India. 
Click on the headlines to read more 
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Chinese Ambassador to India, Xu Feihong, said on Wednesday (Dec 18) that China is ready to work with India on the core interests and major concerns of both nations. The statement comes ahead of Indian National Security Adviser Ajit Doval's meeting with China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Beijing to discuss the management of peace along the Line of Actual Control. 
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With just a few days left for the Winter Session of the Indian Parliament to conclude, Home Minister Amit Shah faced severe criticism from opposition lawmakers over his remarks on Dalit icon Dr BR Ambedkar- which he made on Tuesday (Dec 17) during a debate on the Constitution in the Rajya Sabha. 
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A passenger ferry with over 110 people capsized on Wednesday (Dec 18) near the Gateway of India in Mumbai, the police said. 13 people, including 10 passengers and three Navy personnel, said Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis. 
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United States (US) President-elect Donald Trump continued trolling Canada as on Wednesday (Dec 18), he shared a post on Truth Social and slammed US subsidies to Canada. He even claimed that many in Canada want it to become the 51st state of the US.
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Yoon Suk Yeol, the impeached president of South Korea, failed to show up before the corruption watchdog of the country on Wednesday (Dec 18) after they summoned him for questioning over his failed attempt to impose martial law.
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NASA on Wednesday (Dec 18) announced that astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, who have been stuck in space for more than 180 days now, will now stay on the International Space Station (ISS) at least till March 2025. 
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US President-elect Donald Trump has vowed to follow a tit-for-tat approach on what he termed India’s ‘high tax’ policy, criticising tariffs on imports from America as high as 100 per cent on some products.
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The United States' outgoing Biden administration relaxed H-1B visas' rules, which will ease the process of hiring foreign workers for companies and will ensure a smoother transition of people from F-1 student visas to H-1B visas.
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Ravi Ashwin’s shock international retirement had everyone shed a tear, but what forced the Test great to call up time midway through the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT)? Ashwin decided to hang his boots from all formats following the conclusion of the Gabba Test against Australia in Brisbane, which ended in a draw. 
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India’s film Laapata Ladies might have lost out on Best International award after Academy Awards released its shortlisted names for the category earlier in the day, but we still have hopes with another feature. Anuja by Guneet Monga has been shortlisted in the Best Live-Action Short Film category.

Here are the top 10 news stories from across the world.



New Delhi Chinese Ambassador to India, Xu Feihong, said that China agrees to work with India on the core interests of both nations. The statement came on Wednesday (Dec 18) ahead of Indian National Security Adviser Ajit Doval's meeting with China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Beijing. Meanwhile, Indian Home Minister Amit Shah faced intense criticism from the opposition lawmakers for his remarks on Dr BR Ambedkar. Shah said on December 17 that it has become a trend for the opposition to take the name of the Dalit icon Ambedkar. Moving ahead, a tragic incident happened in the Indian state of Mumbai where a passenger ferry with over 110 people capsized on Wednesday (Dec 18) near the Gateway of India. Click on the headlines to read more 'China ready to work with India,' says Chinese envoy as Doval meets Wang Yi Chinese Ambassador to India, Xu Feihong, said on Wednesday (Dec 18) that China is ready to work with India on the core interests and major concerns of both nations. The statement comes ahead of Indian National Security Adviser Ajit Doval's meeting with China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Beijing to discuss the management of peace along the Line of Actual Control. 'Congress is anti-Ambedkar': Amit Shah responds to Oppn criticism of his remarks on Dalit icon With just a few days left for the Winter Session of the Indian Parliament to conclude, Home Minister Amit Shah faced severe criticism from opposition lawmakers over his remarks on Dalit icon Dr BR Ambedkar- which he made on Tuesday (Dec 17) during a debate on the Constitution in the Rajya Sabha. 13 dead after speed boat crashes into ferry off Mumbai coast A passenger ferry with over 110 people capsized on Wednesday (Dec 18) near the Gateway of India in Mumbai, the police said. 13 people, including 10 passengers and three Navy personnel, said Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis. Trump says US subsidies to Canada make no sense, it should become 51st state United States (US) President-elect Donald Trump continued trolling Canada as on Wednesday (Dec 18), he shared a post on Truth Social and slammed US subsidies to Canada. He even claimed that many in Canada want it to become the 51st state of the US. South Korean prez fails to show up before corruption watchdog over martial law Yoon Suk Yeol, the impeached president of South Korea, failed to show up before the corruption watchdog of the country on Wednesday (Dec 18) after they summoned him for questioning over his failed attempt to impose martial law. Sunita Williams' return further delayed until March 2025. Here's why NASA on Wednesday (Dec 18) announced that astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, who have been stuck in space for more than 180 days now, will now stay on the International Space Station (ISS) at least till March 2025. ‘They tax us, we tax them,’ Trump issues fresh threat to India over ‘high tariffs’ US President-elect Donald Trump has vowed to follow a tit-for-tat approach on what he termed India’s ‘high tax’ policy, criticising tariffs on imports from America as high as 100 per cent on some products. US outgoing government relaxes H1-B visa rules. Here's how it will benefit Indians The United States' outgoing Biden administration relaxed H-1B visas' rules, which will ease the process of hiring foreign workers for companies and will ensure a smoother transition of people from F-1 student visas to H-1B visas. BGT: What forced Ravi Ashwin to announce retirement midway through AUS Tests? Ravi Ashwin’s shock international retirement had everyone shed a tear, but what forced the Test great to call up time midway through the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT)? Ashwin decided to hang his boots from all formats following the conclusion of the Gabba Test against Australia in Brisbane, which ended in a draw. India's Anuja makes it to Oscars Live-Action Short Film, Guneet Monga reacts India’s film Laapata Ladies might have lost out on Best International award after Academy Awards released its shortlisted names for the category earlier in the day, but we still have hopes with another feature. Anuja by Guneet Monga has been shortlisted in the Best Live-Action Short Film category.

Top 10 world news: China 'ready' to work with India; Shah calls Cong 'anti-Ambedkar,' and more

New Delhi
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China has built at least 22 villages and settlements over the last eight years within the territory that has been traditionally part of Bhutan, according to reports in the Indian media. 
Citing satellite imagery, a report by the Hindustan Times on Wednesday (Dec 18) said that eight such villages are coming up in areas in proximity to the strategic Doklam plateau. These eight villages are located in Bhutan's western sector, close to Doklam.
The Hindustan Times report said that these eight villages are all strategically located in a valley or a ridge overlooking a valley that China claims.
<h2>An alarming situation</h2>
The report pointed out that the location of 22 villages alarmed China watchers in New Delhi. Doklam was the site of an India-China border standoff in 2017 over the Chinese construction of a road. 
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-ready-to-work-with-india-says-chinese-envoy-as-nsa-doval-meets-wang-yi-in-beijing-784988">'China ready to work with India,' says Chinese envoy as NSA Doval meets Wang Yi in Beijing</a>
The report also said that though the front-line forces of both India and China pulled back from the region, satellite images from recent years have shown stepped-up Chinese construction activity around Doklam.
Citing a recent report by research associate Robert Barnett, the Indian newspaper said that since 2016, when China first built a village in territory understood to be part of Bhutan, Beijing has completed 22 villages and settlements consisting of an estimated 2,284 residential units and relocated almost 7,000 people to previously unpopulated areas of Bhutan.
<h2>Indian NSA Ajit Doval to meet China FM Wang Yi</h2>
The above report has been published as Indian National Security Adviser Ajit Doval meets Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Beijing.
Also watch | WION Dispatch: India, China vow LAC peace in diplomatic talks
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Doval and Wong are expected to discuss a range of issues, including the management of peace and tranquillity along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and the restoration of bilateral ties, which have been frozen for more than four years due to the border skirmishes that began in 2020. 
(With inputs from agencies)

Doklam was the site of an India-China border standoff in 2017 over the Chinese construction of a road in the area. 



New Delhi China has built at least 22 villages and settlements over the last eight years within the territory that has been traditionally part of Bhutan, according to reports in the Indian media. Citing satellite imagery, a report by the Hindustan Times on Wednesday (Dec 18) said that eight such villages are coming up in areas in proximity to the strategic Doklam plateau. These eight villages are located in Bhutan's western sector, close to Doklam. The Hindustan Times report said that these eight villages are all strategically located in a valley or a ridge overlooking a valley that China claims. An alarming situation The report pointed out that the location of 22 villages alarmed China watchers in New Delhi. Doklam was the site of an India-China border standoff in 2017 over the Chinese construction of a road. Also read | 'China ready to work with India,' says Chinese envoy as NSA Doval meets Wang Yi in Beijing The report also said that though the front-line forces of both India and China pulled back from the region, satellite images from recent years have shown stepped-up Chinese construction activity around Doklam. Citing a recent report by research associate Robert Barnett, the Indian newspaper said that since 2016, when China first built a village in territory understood to be part of Bhutan, Beijing has completed 22 villages and settlements consisting of an estimated 2,284 residential units and relocated almost 7,000 people to previously unpopulated areas of Bhutan. Indian NSA Ajit Doval to meet China FM Wang Yi The above report has been published as Indian National Security Adviser Ajit Doval meets Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Beijing. Also watch | WION Dispatch: India, China vow LAC peace in diplomatic talks Doval and Wong are expected to discuss a range of issues, including the management of peace and tranquillity along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and the restoration of bilateral ties, which have been frozen for more than four years due to the border skirmishes that began in 2020. (With inputs from agencies)

Satellite images show China has built villages near Bhutan's Doklam: Report

New Delhi, India 
R Ashwin announced his international retirement soon after the third Test between India and Australia at The Gabba, Brisbane, ended in a draw on Wednesday (Dec 18). After bad light and rain played spoilsport in the Brisbane Test, Ashwin made the headlines for stepping aside from international cricket. He ends with 765 scalps—second-most by an Indian in internationals—and was hailed by many former cricketers for his contribution to Indian cricket. Sunil Gavaskar also lauded 'one heck of a cricketer' Ashwin but was critical of the timing of his call.
<h2>'Similarly, when MS Dhoni retired in 2014-15 series, it leaves you one short'</h2>
Speaking to the broadcasters, Gavaskar said, "He could have said, 'Listen, after the end of the series, I won't be available for selection for India'. What it does is that, similarly, when MS Dhoni retired at the end of the 3rd Test of 2014-15 series, it leaves you one short. The selection committee has picked so many players for a tour with a purpose. If there are any injuries, they can select from the reserve players to have in the team. So, Sydney is somewhere where there is a lot of support on offer for spinners. So India could have played with 2 spinners. You never know. He could have been there for sure. I don't know what the pitch in Melbourne will be like."<iframe allow="private-state-token-redemption;attribution-reporting" aria-label="Advertisement" data-google-container-id="7" data-load-complete="true" frameborder="0" height="1" id="google_ads_iframe_/1007232/IT_Teads_1x1_0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" name="google_ads_iframe_/1007232/IT_Teads_1x1_0" scrolling="no" tabindex="0" title="3rd party ad content" width="1"></iframe>
"Normally, you tend to look at the end of the series. That's it. In the middle, it is not usual.  Maybe Washington Sundar is ahead of him. Rohit said he is flying out tomorrow. So that's the end of Ashwin as an international cricketer. He has been one heck of a cricketer," Gavaskar further opined.
Ashwin only featured in the second Test, in Adelaide, in the ongoing BGT edition. Washington Sundar has been preferred over him in the recent past. Thus, it might have played a part in Ashwin's retirement call.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/youll-always-be-remembered-as-legend-of-indian-cricket-emotional-kohli-lauds-ashwin-after-his-retirement-784896">You'll always be remembered as legend of Indian cricket: Emotional Kohli lauds Ashwin after his retirement</a>
Indian captain Rohit Sharma, however, backed Ashwin's call. In the post-match presser, he said, "I heard R Ashwin’s retirement when I came to Perth. I was not there for the first few days of the Test. This was in his mind since then. There are obviously a lot of things that went behind it. Ashwin, when he is in position, will be able to answer that. He understands the kind of combinations we are thinking. When we came here as well, we were not sure which spinner was going to play. We just wanted to assess and see what kind of conditions we get in front of us. But yeah, when I arrived in Perth, we had a chat and somehow convinced him to stay for the pink-ball Test match. It happened so that he felt, 'If I am not needed right now in the series, then I am better off saying goodbye to the game'."
<iframe allow="private-state-token-redemption;attribution-reporting" aria-label="Advertisement" data-google-container-id="7" data-load-complete="true" frameborder="0" height="1" id="google_ads_iframe_/1007232/IT_Teads_1x1_0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" name="google_ads_iframe_/1007232/IT_Teads_1x1_0" scrolling="no" tabindex="0" title="3rd party ad content" width="1"></iframe>"Keeping Ashwin in mind, if this is what he thinks, we should allow him to think that way. We should all standby his call. That is what I am thinking right now, and that's the same mindset of Gautam Gambhir as well. It's important a player like him who has had great moments with the team is allowed to make such a call," Rohit added.
Ashwin signs off with 537, 156, and 72 wickets in Tests, ODIs, and T20Is respectively. He played 106 Tests, 116 ODIs, and 72 T20Is for India from 2010 to 2024 and was part of the 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy wins. The 38-year-old ends as India's second-highest wicket-taker in Tests and overall (765).

Former Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar reacted to R Ashwin's sudden international retirement, saying he could've waited to make the big call after the end of the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT).



New Delhi, India R Ashwin announced his international retirement soon after the third Test between India and Australia at The Gabba, Brisbane, ended in a draw on Wednesday (Dec 18). After bad light and rain played spoilsport in the Brisbane Test, Ashwin made the headlines for stepping aside from international cricket. He ends with 765 scalps—second-most by an Indian in internationals—and was hailed by many former cricketers for his contribution to Indian cricket. Sunil Gavaskar also lauded 'one heck of a cricketer' Ashwin but was critical of the timing of his call. 'Similarly, when MS Dhoni retired in 2014-15 series, it leaves you one short' Speaking to the broadcasters, Gavaskar said, "He could have said, 'Listen, after the end of the series, I won't be available for selection for India'. What it does is that, similarly, when MS Dhoni retired at the end of the 3rd Test of 2014-15 series, it leaves you one short. The selection committee has picked so many players for a tour with a purpose. If there are any injuries, they can select from the reserve players to have in the team. So, Sydney is somewhere where there is a lot of support on offer for spinners. So India could have played with 2 spinners. You never know. He could have been there for sure. I don't know what the pitch in Melbourne will be like." "Normally, you tend to look at the end of the series. That's it. In the middle, it is not usual. Maybe Washington Sundar is ahead of him. Rohit said he is flying out tomorrow. So that's the end of Ashwin as an international cricketer. He has been one heck of a cricketer," Gavaskar further opined. Ashwin only featured in the second Test, in Adelaide, in the ongoing BGT edition. Washington Sundar has been preferred over him in the recent past. Thus, it might have played a part in Ashwin's retirement call. Also read: You'll always be remembered as legend of Indian cricket: Emotional Kohli lauds Ashwin after his retirement Indian captain Rohit Sharma, however, backed Ashwin's call. In the post-match presser, he said, "I heard R Ashwin’s retirement when I came to Perth. I was not there for the first few days of the Test. This was in his mind since then. There are obviously a lot of things that went behind it. Ashwin, when he is in position, will be able to answer that. He understands the kind of combinations we are thinking. When we came here as well, we were not sure which spinner was going to play. We just wanted to assess and see what kind of conditions we get in front of us. But yeah, when I arrived in Perth, we had a chat and somehow convinced him to stay for the pink-ball Test match. It happened so that he felt, 'If I am not needed right now in the series, then I am better off saying goodbye to the game'." "Keeping Ashwin in mind, if this is what he thinks, we should allow him to think that way. We should all standby his call. That is what I am thinking right now, and that's the same mindset of Gautam Gambhir as well. It's important a player like him who has had great moments with the team is allowed to make such a call," Rohit added. Ashwin signs off with 537, 156, and 72 wickets in Tests, ODIs, and T20Is respectively. He played 106 Tests, 116 ODIs, and 72 T20Is for India from 2010 to 2024 and was part of the 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy wins. The 38-year-old ends as India's second-highest wicket-taker in Tests and overall (765).

He could have said, 'I am....': Sunil Gavaskar critical of R Ashwin's sudden international retirement

New Delhi, India 
Luigi Mangione has been charged in the killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, including first-degree murder and an "act of terrorism." 
President-elect Donald Trump criticised India for charging high import taxes, some as much as 100 per cent. He said he would respond with similar measures and take a tough stance on trade with India, China and Brazil.
Meanwhile, some sad news for Indian cinema: Laapata Ladies failed to make the Oscars shortlist for Best International Feature. Despite high hopes, the Academy revealed 15 contenders, but India’s official entry didn’t make the cut, leaving fans with broken hearts.
Click on the headlines to read more:
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alleged-unitedhealthcare-ceo-killer-luigi-mangione-charged-with-murder-terrorism-for-brian-thompson-murder-784812">Alleged CEO killer Luigi Mangione charged with murder, terrorism for Brian Thompson's murder</a>
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US prosecutors on Tuesday (Dec 17) charged Luigi Mangione, with the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, including a second-degree murder charge "as an act of terrorism."  

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/they-tax-us-we-tax-them-trump-issues-fresh-threat-to-india-over-high-tariff-784819">‘They tax us, we tax them,’ Trump issues fresh threat to India over ‘high tariff’</a>
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US President-elect Donald Trump has vowed to follow a tit-for-tat approach regarding India’s ‘high tax’ policy, criticising towering tariffs on imports from America, as high as 100 per cent on some products. Speaking at his Mar-a-Lago resort Monday (Dec 16), Trump told reporters, "If they tax us, we tax them the same amount." 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-congressman-claims-unidentified-aircraft-in-new-jersey-new-york-are-chinese-spy-drones-784814">US congressman claims unidentified aircraft in New Jersey, New York are Chinese 'spy drones'</a>
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US House Foreign Affairs Committee chairperson Michael McCaul on Tuesday (Dec 17) alleged that the unidentified drones recently spotted over New Jersey and New York are "spy drones" from China. McCaul's claim comes after the Biden administration downplayed the sightings as largely commercial in nature.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-laapataa-ladies-out-of-oscars-race-netizens-upset-with-film-federation-of-india-784834">Laapataa Ladies out of Oscars race; netizens upset with Film Federation of India</a>
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 Sad news for Indian fans as Laapata Ladies failed to make it to the shortlisted names. In the category for Best International Feature, a total of 15 names was announced and India’s official entry failed to make the cut.
Watch | Bangladesh: Sheikh Hasina Accused Of Mass Killings and Crime Against Humanity
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New Delhi, India Luigi Mangione has been charged in the killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, including first-degree murder and an "act of terrorism." President-elect Donald Trump criticised India for charging high import taxes, some as much as 100 per cent. He said he would respond with similar measures and take a tough stance on trade with India, China and Brazil. Meanwhile, some sad news for Indian cinema: Laapata Ladies failed to make the Oscars shortlist for Best International Feature. Despite high hopes, the Academy revealed 15 contenders, but India’s official entry didn’t make the cut, leaving fans with broken hearts. Click on the headlines to read more: Alleged CEO killer Luigi Mangione charged with murder, terrorism for Brian Thompson's murder US prosecutors on Tuesday (Dec 17) charged Luigi Mangione, with the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, including a second-degree murder charge "as an act of terrorism." ‘They tax us, we tax them,’ Trump issues fresh threat to India over ‘high tariff’ US President-elect Donald Trump has vowed to follow a tit-for-tat approach regarding India’s ‘high tax’ policy, criticising towering tariffs on imports from America, as high as 100 per cent on some products. Speaking at his Mar-a-Lago resort Monday (Dec 16), Trump told reporters, "If they tax us, we tax them the same amount." US congressman claims unidentified aircraft in New Jersey, New York are Chinese 'spy drones' US House Foreign Affairs Committee chairperson Michael McCaul on Tuesday (Dec 17) alleged that the unidentified drones recently spotted over New Jersey and New York are "spy drones" from China. McCaul's claim comes after the Biden administration downplayed the sightings as largely commercial in nature. Laapataa Ladies out of Oscars race; netizens upset with Film Federation of India Sad news for Indian fans as Laapata Ladies failed to make it to the shortlisted names. In the category for Best International Feature, a total of 15 names was announced and India’s official entry failed to make the cut. Watch | Bangladesh: Sheikh Hasina Accused Of Mass Killings and Crime Against Humanity

Morning news brief: Luigi Mangione charged in murder of US CEO; Trump slams India's import tariffs, and more

Dhaka, Bangladesh
Mahfuj Alam, who holds a key position in the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government of Bangladesh, shared a post on social media that had a map that included India's eastern and northeastern territories of Bengal, Assam, and Tripura. However, the post was deleted after around two hours. 
Alam serves as a special aide to the Yunus government and is also an adviser of the interim government. 
He is a key student organiser of the protests in Bangladesh that led to the ouster of Sheikh Hasina. 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/bangladesh/after-weeks-of-denial-bangladesh-finally-admits-88-incidents-of-violence-against-hindus-783111">Also read: After weeks of denial, Bangladesh finally admits 88 incidents of violence against Hindus</a>
Bangladesh Watch, a non-profit organisation, stated that Alam "alleged that #India maintains a "contain" and "ghettoize" policy towards #Bangladesh. He clearly states that 1975 (the coup that saw Sheikh Mujib and almost his entire family killed) and the 2024 protests both came to save Bangladesh from Indian "reliance" and "hegemony"."
"However, he says that to be truly victorious, independent, and liberated, Bangladesh must "come out of its cage" and expand geographically. He adds that their work has just begun," the organisation added. 
Watch | Bangladesh: Sheikh Hasina Accuses Yunus Of Leading An 'Undemocratic Group'
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During his address at a Clinton Global Initiative event in New York in September, Yunus also introduced Alam as the "mastermind" of the protests that led to the August 5 changeover in Bangladesh.
This comes amid a rise in attacks on Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh. Indian authorities have issued various statements, condemning these attacks. 
Hindus have increasingly come under attack in Bangladesh since the ouster of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina. 
The interim government, led by Muhammad Yunus, earlier this week acknowledged that at least 88 incidents of violence had occurred against the Hindu community over the last few months.
(With inputs from agencies)

Alam serves as a special aide to the Yunus government and is also an adviser of the interim government. 



Dhaka, Bangladesh Mahfuj Alam, who holds a key position in the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government of Bangladesh, shared a post on social media that had a map that included India's eastern and northeastern territories of Bengal, Assam, and Tripura. However, the post was deleted after around two hours. Alam serves as a special aide to the Yunus government and is also an adviser of the interim government. He is a key student organiser of the protests in Bangladesh that led to the ouster of Sheikh Hasina. Also read: After weeks of denial, Bangladesh finally admits 88 incidents of violence against Hindus Bangladesh Watch, a non-profit organisation, stated that Alam "alleged that #India maintains a "contain" and "ghettoize" policy towards #Bangladesh. He clearly states that 1975 (the coup that saw Sheikh Mujib and almost his entire family killed) and the 2024 protests both came to save Bangladesh from Indian "reliance" and "hegemony"." "However, he says that to be truly victorious, independent, and liberated, Bangladesh must "come out of its cage" and expand geographically. He adds that their work has just begun," the organisation added. Watch | Bangladesh: Sheikh Hasina Accuses Yunus Of Leading An 'Undemocratic Group' × During his address at a Clinton Global Initiative event in New York in September, Yunus also introduced Alam as the "mastermind" of the protests that led to the August 5 changeover in Bangladesh. This comes amid a rise in attacks on Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh. Indian authorities have issued various statements, condemning these attacks. Hindus have increasingly come under attack in Bangladesh since the ouster of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina. The interim government, led by Muhammad Yunus, earlier this week acknowledged that at least 88 incidents of violence had occurred against the Hindu community over the last few months. (With inputs from agencies)

Yunus' key adviser shares Bangladesh map including India's eastern territories; later deletes post

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