Sports
Divya Deshmukh Triumphs Over Zhu Jiner in Women’s Chess World Cup

The FIDE Women’s Chess World Cup resumed in Batumi, Georgia, on March 15, 2025, with India’s Divya Deshmukh making headlines after securing a remarkable victory against Chinese Grandmaster Zhu Jiner. This victory places Deshmukh on the brink of advancing to the quarter-finals.
At just 19 years old, Deshmukh entered the fourth round with a daunting 0-5 record against Zhu, including three defeats in the Classical format. Despite this challenging history, she approached the match with a fresh mindset, focusing on the game rather than her opponent’s reputation. “Actually, I expected it to be worse. It’s good to know that it’s just 5-1. I didn’t have any specific preparations. Since I had a bad score, I guess there was some sort of a mental block. But, I just tried to think that I’m playing against the pieces, so it doesn’t really matter who I’m against,” Deshmukh stated in an interview with FIDE after her stunning win in 49 moves.
The second Classical game of this round is scheduled for March 16, and if necessary, tie-breaks will occur on March 17. Deshmukh expressed her ambition to secure a decisive 2-0 victory against Zhu, who ranks sixth in the latest FIDE Women’s Classical ratings, a notable 12 places above her. “I guess it’s a normal game. I don’t think it’s anything special, but of course I have to give my best and see how it goes. It will be pretty great if I can score 2-0 right?” she added.
Other matches in the fourth round featured Zhu’s compatriots, including GM Lie Tingjie, Song Yuxin, and Tan Zhongyi, all of whom secured victories while playing as white. Meanwhile, fellow Indian players GM Koneru Humpy, GM Harika Dronavalli, and R Vaishali managed to draw their respective games.
As the tournament progresses, Deshmukh’s performance stands out as a testament to her resilience and determination, especially given her previous record against Zhu. With the next game looming, anticipation builds around her continued journey in the World Cup. The stakes are high, and Deshmukh is poised to make her mark on this prestigious stage.
Sports
Mohammed Shami Named in Bengal’s Probables for 2025-26 Season

Mohammed Shami has been included in the list of probables for Bengal’s squad ahead of the 2025-26 domestic cricket season. This announcement comes as the team prepares for a competitive year, aiming to strengthen its lineup with experienced players.
Shami’s Recent Performance and Future Prospects
After a challenging stint in the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) with Sunrisers Hyderabad, where he struggled to secure wickets and often proved costly, Shami’s selection raises questions about his current form. His performances in the IPL included several outings where he failed to make a significant impact, contributing to the team’s overall struggles.
Despite his recent challenges, Shami remains a key figure in Indian cricket. His experience and skill set will be crucial for Bengal as they look to navigate the domestic season ahead. The inclusion of such a prominent player not only boosts the team’s morale but also adds depth to their bowling attack.
Implications for Bengal’s Strategy
Bengal’s decision to include Shami reflects a strategic approach to harnessing veteran talent. Team management aims to blend experienced players with emerging talents to foster a competitive edge in the domestic circuit. As the season approaches, Shami’s performance will be closely monitored, particularly given the high expectations surrounding his return to form.
The 2025-26 season is set to be pivotal for many players, and Shami’s role will be critical in determining Bengal’s success. His ability to adapt and perform under pressure will be essential as the team aims for victory in upcoming matches. With a focus on reclaiming his top form, Shami is poised to make a significant contribution to Bengal’s campaign this season.
Sports
Conway Excited for Return to Squad Ahead of Upcoming Matches

Conway has expressed his enthusiasm upon receiving a call-up to rejoin the national squad for the upcoming international matches. The footballer, who has previously made significant contributions to the team, conveyed his excitement in a recent statement, emphasizing the importance of being part of this competitive environment.
“Just getting the call-up to come back into the squad is fantastic,” Conway remarked, highlighting his eagerness to participate in the team’s preparations and upcoming fixtures. His return is seen as a vital boost for the squad, which is gearing up for crucial matches in 2024.
Positive Impact on the Team Dynamics
The inclusion of Conway is anticipated to enhance the team’s dynamics. Having previously played a key role in several important games, his experience and skill set are expected to provide both tactical advantages and a morale boost for fellow teammates.
Fans and analysts alike are keenly watching how his return will influence the squad’s performance. The upcoming matches are critical, as the team aims to secure a strong position in the international football scene. With Conway back in the lineup, the squad is optimistic about their chances of success.
As the team prepares for practice sessions, Conway is focused on regaining his form and integrating back into the group. His commitment to training and readiness to contribute is evident, as he aims to make a significant impact on the field.
Looking Ahead to International Competitions
The upcoming fixtures are part of a broader strategy for the national team, aiming to strengthen its competitive edge. Conway’s presence is viewed as a strategic advantage, especially considering the challenges posed by various international opponents.
The national squad is scheduled to play several matches in the coming months, providing Conway with ample opportunity to showcase his abilities. His return not only adds depth to the team but also serves as a reminder of the resilience and spirit of the squad as they gear up for key encounters.
With anticipation building, fans are eager to see Conway back in action, contributing to the team’s journey in the international football arena. As preparations continue, the focus is clear: aim for excellence and capitalize on every opportunity to shine on the global stage.
Sports
Pratika Rawal Fined as England Penalised for Slow Over-Rate

The first One Day International (ODI) match between India and England saw Indian batter Pratika Rawal penalised for a breach of the ICC Code of Conduct. According to a statement from the International Cricket Council (ICC), Rawal was fined 10 percent of her match fee due to two separate incidents of avoidable physical contact during the match, which took place on July 7, 2023.
The first incident occurred in the 18th over when Rawal made contact with bowler Lauren Filer while attempting to take a single. Just one over later, after her dismissal, she again made avoidable contact, this time with bowler Sophie Ecclestone, as she walked back to the dressing room. In addition to the fine, Rawal received one demerit point added to her disciplinary record, marking her first offence within a 24-month period.
England’s Slow Over-Rate Penalty
In a separate disciplinary matter, the England team received a penalty for maintaining a slow over-rate during the match. As a result, the team was fined 5 percent of its match fees. Captain Nat Sciver-Brunt and Rawal both accepted the sanctions imposed by match referee Sarah Bartlett, eliminating the need for a formal hearing.
The match itself concluded with a thrilling victory for India, who managed to secure the win in a tense chase. All-rounder Deepti Sharma played a pivotal role, scoring a match-winning fifty that led her team to success in the series opener.
These incidents highlight the ongoing emphasis on maintaining sportsmanship and adherence to the rules in cricket. The penalties serve as a reminder for players to navigate the game with greater awareness and respect for their opponents.
Sports
Felix Baumgartner, Stratospheric Skydiver, Dies at 56 in Crash

Extreme athlete Felix Baumgartner, renowned for his record-breaking skydive from the stratosphere, died on Thursday at the age of 56 following a tragic accident in Porto Sant’Elpidio, Italy. According to officials, Baumgartner’s paraglider crashed into the side of a swimming pool, prompting a response from local firefighters.
Community Mourns a Global Icon
The mayor of Porto Sant’Elpidio, Massimiliano Ciarpella, confirmed Baumgartner’s death through a heartfelt message on social media, expressing that “our community is deeply affected by the tragic disappearance of Felix Baumgartner, a figure of global prominence, a symbol of courage and passion for extreme flight.” His passing has resonated not just locally but around the world, where he is celebrated for his extraordinary adventures.
Baumgartner gained international acclaim in 2012 when he became the first person to break the sound barrier without the aid of an aircraft. He accomplished this daring feat during a historic jump from a height of over 24 miles (39 kilometers) above Earth, using a helium balloon to ascend to the stratosphere in New Mexico. During his descent, he reached a staggering speed of 843.6 mph, which is approximately 1.25 times the speed of sound, marking a significant milestone in the history of skydiving.
Legacy of a Fearless Pioneer
Known as “Fearless Felix,” Baumgartner’s jump was watched by millions worldwide via a live stream on YouTube. As he exited the capsule, he famously gave a thumbs-up before activating his parachute. His successful landing was met with cheers, and he celebrated the moment by raising his arms in victory.
Prior to this achievement, Baumgartner had already established himself as a pioneering skydiver. He shattered the previous altitude record set by Joe Kittinger in 1960, who had also served as an adviser for Baumgartner’s jump. Kittinger’s record stood firm for over five decades until Baumgartner’s remarkable ascent.
Baumgartner’s legacy extends beyond mere records; he performed thousands of jumps from various heights, including notable landmarks like the Christ the Redeemer statue in Brazil. His adventurous spirit was further exemplified in 2003 when he successfully flew across the English Channel using a carbon fiber wing after being released from a plane.
In recent years, he showcased his skills as a helicopter stunt pilot with The Flying Bulls, captivating audiences across Europe with his breathtaking performances. Baumgartner once stated, “When I was standing there on top of the world, you become so humble; you do not think about breaking records anymore. The only thing you want is to come back alive.”
Felix Baumgartner’s contributions to extreme sports and his fearless pursuit of adventure will not be forgotten. His impact on the world of skydiving and the spirit of exploration has inspired countless individuals to push the boundaries of human capability. The global community mourns the loss of an icon whose legacy will endure through the stories of courage and passion he leaves behind.
-
World5 days ago
Torrential Rains Cause Flash Flooding in New York and New Jersey
-
Science4 days ago
Nothing Headphone 1 Review: A Bold Contender in Audio Design
-
Top Stories5 days ago
Konkani Cultural Organisation to Host Pearl Jubilee in Abu Dhabi
-
Top Stories5 days ago
Air India Crash Investigation Highlights Boeing Fuel Switch Concerns
-
World5 days ago
Prachanda Offers Support for Constitutional Amendments in Nepal
-
Business5 days ago
Indian Stock Market Rebounds: Sensex and Nifty Rise After Four-Day Decline
-
World4 days ago
Heavy Rain Causes 220 Road Closures in Himachal Pradesh
-
Top Stories4 days ago
Patna Bank Manager Abhishek Varun Found Dead in Well
-
Politics4 days ago
Jr NTR’s Drastic Weight Loss Raises Eyebrows Ahead of War 2
-
World4 days ago
Trump Expresses Disappointment in Putin, Affirms NATO and UK Ties
-
Science4 days ago
Tesla’s Model Y and Model 3 Lead U.S. EV Sales Despite Decline
-
Sports4 days ago
Jadeja’s Grit Shines, But Gavaskar Calls for Aggression in Loss