Month: November 2024

World Test Championship – State of Play Ahead of the 2025 Final

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As the cricketing world gears up for the highly anticipated 2025 ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final, the competition among teams for a coveted spot in the marquee clash has intensified. With the current cycle (2023-2025) nearing its final stages, let’s examine the state of play and the teams vying for a place in the final.

The Current Front-Runners

The two-year WTC cycle has seen thrilling contests, with some teams establishing themselves as strong contenders:

1. India
India, the runners-up in the 2021 and 2023 finals, remain formidable. Their dominance at home and improved overseas performances have kept them among the top two in the points table. With a star-studded batting lineup and a potent bowling attack, India’s consistency might finally earn them the elusive title.

2. Australia
Defending champions Australia have displayed their characteristic grit, building on their success from the 2023 final. Led by experienced players and emerging stars, they have been clinical in most series, maintaining their strong position on the table.

Teams in the Hunt

3. England
England’s aggressive “Bazball” approach has revolutionized Test cricket. Despite a shaky start to the WTC cycle, they have bounced back strongly. With pivotal series against key opponents, their chances hinge on maintaining momentum.

4. South Africa
Known for their fiery pace attack, South Africa is proving to be a dark horse. Though inconsistencies have plagued them, recent series wins have boosted their hopes of reaching their first WTC final.

5. Pakistan
Pakistan’s fluctuating form and home series setbacks have left them with an uphill task. However, their talent pool and favorable upcoming fixtures could still turn the tide in their favor.

Challenges for Other Teams

New Zealand, the inaugural WTC winners, have struggled in this cycle due to injuries and inconsistent performances. Sri Lanka and the West Indies, too, have found the going tough, while Bangladesh has yet to leave a significant mark in the competition.

The Road Ahead

With crucial series slated in the coming months, including marquee matchups such as India vs. Australia and England vs. South Africa, the final WTC points table could witness dramatic shifts. Teams must capitalize on home conditions and deliver under pressure in away games to secure a top-two finish.

Format and Significance

The WTC format, which awards points based on match results rather than series wins, has added layers of strategy to Test cricket. This emphasis on every match’s importance has elevated the global profile of the longest format.

Countdown to 2025

As the battle heats up, fans worldwide are treated to high-stakes drama, reminiscent of cricket’s golden eras. Whether the 2025 WTC Final delivers a new champion or a repeat victor, one thing is certain – the journey to the final promises unforgettable moments.

Stay tuned as the cricketing world marches toward its grandest Test showdown!

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Champions Trophy the focus as Pakistan provide Fakhar Zaman update

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Pakistan’s main focus is on the 2025 Champions Trophy and a recall for one of their most damaging batters might not be too far away.

Newly-appointed Pakistan white-ball coach Aqib Javed has vowed to keep his side’s 50-over side as settled as possible in the lead-up to next year’s ICC Champions Trophy.

Aqib was recently appointed as interim white-ball coach until the completion of the 2025 Champions Trophy event and the former Pakistan quick will use upcoming fixtures in Zimbabwe and South Africa to fine tune the side’s preparation for next year’s showcase event.

Pakistan will travel to Zimbabwe for three ODIs and three T20Is later this month, before embarking on a six-match (three ODIs, three T20Is) white-ball tour of South Africa prior to Christmas that Aqib hopes will have his players primed for the Champions Trophy tournament that is scheduled to commence in February next year.

“Our main focus at the moment is on ODI cricket ahead of the Champions Trophy,” Aqib said.

“You’ll see a settled team in this format. You’ll see changes in the T20I format. We plan to give new players chances in the Zimbabwe series.

“It is a message and opportunity to the new players to take the chances they’ve been given. If you don’t give new players chances, you’ll never get the opportunity to improve your bench strength.”

While Aqib wants to keep changes to Pakistan’s 50-over side as minimal as possible the 52-year-old suggested star batter Fakhar Zaman would be in line for a recall once he has proven to the coaching staff that his fitness levels are up to standard.

Fakhar missed Pakistan’s recent white-ball series in Australia, but Javed hopes to see the dashing left-hander back playing for his country as soon as possible.

“Fakhar is a match-winner, he has performed for Pakistan for many years. He was having some fitness problems,” Aqib noted.

“We are in communication with Fakhar. Whenever he gets fit, the selection committee will definitely consider him for selection and you’ll see him (back playing) in the future.”

Kala Academy Canteen Contractor Accused of Forgery: Social Activist Exposes Document Tampering to Cheat CCP Panaji

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Panaji, Goa – A major scandal has surfaced in the heart of Goa’s cultural hub, with allegations of forgery against the contractor managing the Kala Academy canteen. Prominent social activist Mr. Damodar Divkar has exposed what he claims to be deliberate manipulation of government documents, implicating the contractor, in a fraudulent scheme designed to deceive the Corporation of the City of Panaji (CCP).

The accusations were formally submitted to the Vigilance Commission of Goa, as well as other authorities, by Mr. Divkar, who is urging immediate and stringent action against the contractor.

The Allegations: A Breakdown

The case centers on a signed government document, purportedly altered to mislead the CCP and avoid accountability. Key legal violations highlighted include:

1. Forgery (Sections 463 & 465, IPC): The alleged tampering with official documents to misrepresent facts.

2. Cheating (Section 420, IPC): Attempts to deceive the CCP for unlawful gain.

3. Evidence Tampering (Section 204, IPC): Destruction or alteration of evidence, hampering legal proceedings.

4. Criminal Conspiracy (Section 120B, IPC): Possible collusion with other parties to carry out the fraud.

5. Breach of Trust (Section 406, IPC): Misuse of authority entrusted to the contractor.

6. Municipal Act Violations (Goa Municipalities Act, 1968): Breach of regulations governing lawful operations in municipal areas.

7. Corruption (Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988): Misuse of official documentation for personal or professional gain.

Mr. Divkar, known for his relentless fight against corruption, has demanded:

Suspension of the contractor’s license.

Forensic investigation of the manipulated documents.

Filing of criminal charges under relevant legal provisions.

An audit of the Kala Academy’s operations to uncover further irregularities.

“The people of Goa deserve accountability and transparency in all government dealings. This blatant manipulation of official documents is not just a breach of trust but a direct attack on the values of integrity,” said Mr. Divkar in a statement.

Opposition MLAs will write to Prime Minister in Cash for Job scandal

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Margao: Today  all seven opposition MLAs, including Congress, AAP, RGP and Goa Forward held a meeting in Margao and decided to write to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to intervene in the ‘cash for job’ scandal, which has deprived deserving candidates from getting government jobs.

“The way Goa police are investigating and giving certificates of ‘clean chit’ to BJP Ministers is shocking and we know that ‘big fishes’ involved in it will not be caught by damaged fishnets of police. Police have become spokesperson of BJP”.

Yuri Alemao Leader of Opposition said “It is learnt that today one who was arrested by Mardol police was a staff of one BJP Minister. There may be several such agents employed by ministers to make money by selling jobs. That should be investigated and hence we have decided to write to the Prime Minister as it is a serious issue”.

“Deserving candidates are not getting government jobs as these agents are manipulating the process by taking bribes. Police have caught these small fishes, big fishes are trying to weaken these complaints and hence there is a need that this scandal should be handed over to SIT or should be probed by retired High Court judge’.

“If undeserving candidates get government jobs by paying bribes to BJP’s agents, how will departments function with such persons who are into corruption. In the future they will take bribes from people to recover their money spent to get a job. So the corruption cycle will continue”.

“BJP came to power with a false narrative of mining scam and promising unemployment dole in 2012. Since then, Mining dependents are waiting for resumption and unemployed youths for dole”.

“Mining resumption and creation of employment were two main promises of BJP’s manifestos. In 2012, BJP had promised unemployment dole. What happened to that promise?”

“BJP is responsible for mining suspension and increased unemployment rate due to it”.

“Now as their involvement has been exposed, BJP Govt is using police officials to break the chain of investigation. It is shocking to note that Police are giving clean chit to politicians in power. Police are proving that they are spokesperson of BJP”.

“How can police jump to conclusions when cases are still being lodged? Is the investigation over of all cases? Have they checked audios which are viral of MLAs and other agents? Have the police filed Chargesheetd? Then how come they give clean chit to politicians in power? Don’t protect criminals”.

“Have the police checked how many candidates these agents have provided jobs? I am sure the police will not do it because they want to protect their bosses”.

National Fishworkers Forum Leaders to Represent India at World Forum of Fisher Peoples General Assembly in Brazil

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New Delhi, India – 14/11/24 – The National Fishworkers Forum (NFF) is proud to announce that General Secretary Olencio Simoes and K. Lakshmi, President of the Traditional Fish Workers Union and NFF Executive member from Andhra Pradesh, will represent India at the 8th General Assembly of the World Forum of Fisher Peoples (WFFP) in Brasília, Brazil, from November 14 to 21, 2024.

Olencio Simoes highlighted the significance of this gathering, noting that the last general assembly was hosted by the NFF in New Delhi from November 15 to 21, 2017, which saw participation from representatives of 50 countries. “The WFFP, which we helped establish on November 21, 1997, in New Delhi, serves as a vital platform for small-scale fishers globally. This day is now celebrated as World Fisheries Day,” Simoes stated.

The assembly in Brazil will provide an opportunity for fishers from around the world to come together and address critical issues affecting their livelihoods and the sustainability of marine resources. The NFF will focus on several pressing topics, including:

  • Challenges Faced by Small-Scale Fishers in India: The NFF aims to highlight the struggles of small-scale fishers who are often marginalized in policy-making processes.
  • Ocean Grabbing and Blue Economies: Concerns regarding the Sagarmala expansion plans and other blue economy initiatives that threaten traditional fishing practices will be addressed.
  • Impact of Climate Change: The assembly will discuss the adverse effects of climate change on marine ecosystems and fishing communities.
  • Women’s Issues in Fisheries: The NFF will advocate for the inclusion of women’s voices and concerns in fisheries management and decision-making.
  • Cross-Border Issues: The assembly will also tackle the challenges posed by the arrest of Indian fishers by Sri Lanka and Pakistan, emphasizing the need for diplomatic interventions.
  • WTO Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies: The NFF will engage in discussions regarding the implications of the World Trade Organization’s agreement on fisheries subsidies, which could significantly impact the livelihoods of small-scale fishers.

Simoes expressed optimism about the upcoming assembly, stating, “This is a crucial moment for fishers around the world to unite and voice our concerns. We must work together to protect our rights, our livelihoods, and our oceans.”

The NFF’s participation in the WFFP General Assembly underscores its commitment to advocating for the rights of fishers and promoting sustainable fishing practices. As the assembly approaches, the NFF looks forward to collaborating with other global representatives to forge solutions to the challenges facing fishing communities worldwide.

Girish Chodankar Calls for Review of Judgment in Pension Scam Involving Former Chief Information Commissioner

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Margao 13/11/24 : In a shocking turn of events following the recent job scam, Senior Congress leader and AICC member Girish Chodankar has raised serious allegations against former State Chief Information Commissioner (SCIC), Shri Prashant S.P. Tendulkar. Chodankar has filed a formal complaint with Chief Secretary Dr. V. Candavelou, IAS, accusing Tendulkar of falsely claiming pension benefits under the Supreme Court Judges Act and gratuity that he is not entitled to.

Chodankar is demanding a review of the Judgment in WP/433/2021, asserting that the Finance Secretary and Director of Accounts, as custodians of the public treasury, failed to ascertain the correct facts from the Administrative Tribunal. He argues that the government should have directed the Advocate General to file a review with the High Court, given that Tendulkar, appointed as Additional President of the Goa State Administrative Tribunal on September 20, 2013, only served for one year and five months before retiring on February 28, 2015. According to Chodankar, Tendulkar was not receiving any pension prior to his appointment as SCIC, and those who joined government service after January 1, 2004, fall under the New Pension Scheme, which does not entitle them to a pension or family pension.

“Shri Prashant S.P. Tendulkar, being an advocate and an officer of the court, should not have taken the court for a ride through deception and misrepresentation of facts,” Chodankar stated. He emphasized that if Tendolkar was indeed receiving a pension from his previous government service, it should have been deducted from his salary as SCIC, which was evidently not the case. Chodankar also recalled how Tendolkar had previously abused his position by using a red beacon car during his tenure as SCIC, only to remove it after public outcry.

Three months have passed since the judgment, and Chodankar expressed concern over the government’s inaction regarding filing a review in the High Court or an appeal in the Supreme Court. He insisted that any inadvertent mistakes or errors apparent on the record must be corrected through a review. Citing Article 226 of the Constitution of India, he noted that the High Court has the authority to review its own judgments based on new and important evidence.

Chodankar lamented the ongoing corruption under the current government, stating, “Scam after scam is being unearthed, and yet Chief Minister Pramod Sawant remains silent. The CAG has pointed out several lapses, and no one seems to care. Can we allow the public exchequer to be looted in this manner?” He warned that if no action is taken regarding this pension fraud involving crores of rupees, he would be compelled to take further steps in the matter for the public interest.

He further accused the BJP government of misleading the courts to exploit the government treasury, urging courts to exercise caution when dealing with matters involving financial liabilities. “Similar tactics were used to grant permissions to casinos, only for the government to claim it was per court order,” Chodankar concluded.

Congress Demands Thorough Probe into Goa’s ‘Cash for Job’ Scam

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Panaji, Goa:

The Goa Pradesh Congress Committee (GPCC) has formally requested a detailed investigation into the alleged ‘Cash for Job’ scam that has been making headlines in the state. In a letter addressed to the Director General of Police (DGP), the party has expressed serious concerns over the involvement of high-level individuals in this fraudulent activity.

The GPCC, in a recent press conference, presented evidence, including fraudulent offer letters and an audio recording, suggesting a well-organized scheme to deceive job aspirants and their families. The party has also claimed that the scam involves the manipulation of government recruitment processes to secure jobs for specific individuals in exchange for monetary benefits.

Following the press conference, Goa Minister Vishwajit Rane demanded an investigation against the GPCC for presenting false evidence. However, the Congress party has countered this claim, asserting that the evidence presented was genuine and part of a complaint filed with the Mardol Police Station.

The Congress has urged the DGP to take swift action and conduct a thorough investigation into the matter, including probing the potential involvement of high-ranking officials. The party has also expressed concerns over the Minister’s reaction, suggesting a possible attempt to shield those involved in the scam.

The ‘Cash for Job’ scam has sparked widespread outrage in Goa, with the opposition demanding accountability and transparency in government recruitment processes. As the investigation unfolds, it remains to be seen whether the authorities will take decisive action to address the serious allegations and bring the culprits to justice.

Congress Slams Goa CM for Targeting Indira Gandhi Amidst ‘Cash for Job Scam’

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Panaji, Goa:

The Goa Pradesh Congress Committee (GPCC) has strongly condemned Goa Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant’s recent remarks targeting former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. The statement came in response to Sawant’s speech at the UTTA function in Farmagudi, where he criticized Gandhi’s policies.

Former GPCC president and CWC Permanent invitee, Girish Chodankar, argued that the BJP’s criticism of Indira Gandhi is rooted in her unwavering commitment to secularism, a fundamental principle enshrined in the Indian Constitution. Chodankar highlighted the stark contrast between Gandhi’s inclusive vision and the BJP’s divisive agenda, which seeks to polarize the nation along religious lines.

Chodankar further emphasized Indira Gandhi’s significant contributions to India’s progress, particularly her pro-poor initiatives that uplifted millions of citizens. He drew a sharp contrast between Gandhi’s commitment to democratic principles and the current government’s alleged undermining of these very principles.

The Congress leader urged the public to remember Indira Gandhi’s legacy as a visionary leader who championed unity in diversity. As the nation grapples with the erosion of democratic norms, Chodankar called for unity to protect the ideals that Gandhi fought for and to prevent the distortion of India’s history for political gain.

The Congress’s statement comes amidst the ongoing controversy surrounding the ‘Cash for Job Scam’ in Goa, with the opposition party accusing the ruling BJP of corruption. The Congress alleges that Sawant’s attack on Indira Gandhi is a desperate attempt to divert public attention from the serious allegations.

Nifty Trade Setup for Thursday: Key Levels and Expectations Amid Weekly Expiry

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Mumbai: 6 November 2024, On Wednesday, Nifty closed strong with a gain of 270.75 points, or 1.12%, finishing the day at 24,493.90. With this momentum, Nifty is expected to open above the 24,500 mark on Thursday, marking a positive start ahead of the weekly expiry of the Nifty contract.

Traders should be mindful of resistance levels at 24,670 and 24,720, where profit-booking or consolidation could emerge. On the downside, a strong support zone is likely at 24,470, which may provide a cushion for any downward movements.

Key Levels to Watch:

Resistance: 24,670, 24,720

Support: 24,470

As the market digests recent gains, these levels could provide traders with crucial insights for positioning during Thursday’s trading session. The overall sentiment leans positive, but traders should remain cautious at the resistance zones.

Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Readers should do their own research and consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions.

1574 Players Register for TATA IPL 2025 Player Auction

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November 5, 2024

The much-awaited TATA IPL 2025 Player Auction is set to take place on November 24 and 25 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, and the event promises to be a grand affair with a total of 1,574 players registered. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) closed the registration on November 4, 2024, bringing in a diverse roster of both Indian and international talents. The breakdown of registered players includes 1,165 Indian and 409 overseas players, reflecting the growing global appeal of the Indian Premier League.

Breakdown of Registered Players

The registered players are classified as follows:

Capped Players: 320

Capped Indians: 48

Capped Internationals: 272

Uncapped Players: 1,224

Uncapped Indians (including those who participated in previous IPL seasons): 965

Uncapped Internationals who were part of previous IPL seasons: 3

Other Uncapped Internationals: 104

Players from Associate Nations: 30

Each IPL franchise can have a maximum squad size of 25, with a total of 204 slots available across the teams. Given the array of talent registered, franchises will have a wide pool to choose from, making for a competitive and strategic auction process.

Country-Wise Breakdown of Overseas Players

The 409 overseas players registered come from 16 countries, showcasing cricket’s expanding reach. Here’s a country-wise breakdown:

Looking Back: TATA IPL 2024 Player Auction Highlights

The TATA IPL 2024 Player Auction saw intense competition, with multiple high-value bids as franchises aimed to bolster their squads. Star all-rounders, young emerging talents, and specialist bowlers commanded the highest bids, with several Indian and overseas players securing record-breaking deals. Strategic buys and a focus on balance were key themes last year, as teams sought to strengthen both batting and bowling departments.

The TATA IPL 2024 season itself was a thrilling showcase of cricket, with exciting finishes, individual milestones, and standout performances from debutants and veterans alike. It further highlighted the IPL’s reputation as one of the most competitive and prestigious cricket leagues globally.

With a vast player pool for 2025, franchises are expected to make bold moves to secure the most impactful talents, setting the stage for yet another captivating IPL season.