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Hindustan Times
7 hours ago
- Sport
- Hindustan Times
Pant's on fire: Rudraneil Sengupta on India's fearless Test batter
Who is India's most successful Test batter today? Rishabh Pant during the Test series against England this week. (AFP) If not for his exuberant twin centuries in India's first Test against England this week, Rishabh Pant might not have been the most obvious answer to that question. Yet, it is him. This compact bundle of fast-twitch muscle fibre with a maverick batting style that can be deceptively technical or totally outrageous, but is always defined by a sense of freedom and joy, stands a mile apart from all other Indian batters. Since his debut in 2018, Pant has scored 3,200 runs at an average of nearly 45 and a strike rate just above 74. That's better than the now-retired Virat Kohli, who, with 2,140 runs, comes in second (others such as KL Rahul, Shubman Gill and Rohit Sharma all have aggregates far lower than 2,000 runs). Pant's strike rate is audacious too (everyone else in the top five has a strike rate in the 40s). What a joy to see the 27-year-old storm the stage as he is doing. If the Test series in England proves anything, it is this: India's new Test generation is packed with fantastic batting talent, and Kohli and Sharma's retirements have helped, not hurt, the team, by allowing this next generation to blossom. Yashasvi Jaiswal, Gill and Rahul all proved they have what it takes to achieve true Test greatness: the temperament and technique. If Pant was doing his uniquely destructive and freewheeling dance at one end, Jaiswal, Gill and Rahul were the epitome of poise and classical correctness, marked by one gorgeous drive after another. All sport thrives on such diversity. It is Bharatnatyam meets Breaking. Pant announced his batting prowess soon after making his Test debut, when he became the first Indian wicketkeeper to score a century in Australia, in January 2019. His career-changing knock came in the Sydney Test in the 2020-21 Border Gavaskar Trophy series, where he not only helped India survive the final day and earn a draw, but hit back with a rapid, roaring 97 off 118 balls. Then he outdid himself: in the next Test on the infamous pitch at The Gabba, he led a highly depleted Indian squad to victory with a frenzied, unbeaten 89 on the final day of the Test, to overcome the Aussie total, in a match that went down as one of the most improbable chases in Test cricket history. Now, Pant is truly building his legacy. The twin centuries have made him the first Indian and only the second wicketkeeper in the world (after Andy Flower) to score centuries in both innings of a Test in England. His match aggregate of 252 (134 and 118) is the highest by any Indian wicketkeeper in a Test. His four Test hundreds in England bring him at par with Sachin Tendulkar and Dilip Vengsarkar, and behind only Rahul Dravid (six), when it comes to Indian centurions in England. It is possible he will not only equal Dravid's record by the end of the series, but surpass it. A less-important but very Pant statistic is that the nine sixes he hit in the second innings also equals the record for most sixes in an innings by any batter in England (putting him at par with Andrew Flintoff and Ben Stokes on this front). There are few things more seductive in cricket than the combination of superb skill and a maverick attitude and, in this, Pant follows in the footsteps of giants such as Viv Richards (swaggering onto the field chewing gum, a rakishly angled cap instead of a helmet on his head), Shoaib Akhtar (a run-up that started near the boundary, long hair flying, a missile of a delivery, and Akhtar wheeling away in 'airplane' celebration) and Steve Smith (all Chaplinesque twitches and ticks, but one of the greatest batting techniques in the history of the game). Pant brings with him his nutty rolling-and-tumbling scoop shot, brings up his century with a one-handed six (in the first innings in the first Test), does backflips to celebrate milestones, steps out to hit the most ferocious bowlers like their reputations mean nothing, and smiles impishly through it all. 'It is hard for us to understand the mindset,' Rahul told reporters, after the first Test, 'but you let Rishabh Pant be Rishabh Pant. There is obviously… a lot of thought behind the outrageous shots he plays.' Pant is just the maverick Indian cricket needs. (To reach Rudraneil Sengupta with feedback, email rudraneil@
The Irish Sun
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Irish Sun
Newly single Orlando Bloom cosies up to Kim Kardashian at Jeff Bezos' wedding – after split with Katy Perry is revealed
ORLANDO Bloom put on a cosy display with Kim Kardashian after his split with popstar Katy Perry was revealed. The duo have headed to Advertisement 9 Orlando Bloom put on a cosy display with Kim Kardashian as they embraced in Venice Credit: BackGrid 9 Kim, 44, looked engrossed in their conversation as they stood in the Italian sunshine Credit: BackGrid 9 They are on the star-studded guest list for the nuptials of Lauren Sanchez and Jeff Bezos Credit: Getty 9 Reports suggested Orlando would be 'making his debut as a single man' following his reported split with fiancee Katy Perry Credit: The Mega Agency It comes after reports the Pirates of the Caribbean actor, 48, Clearly eager to embrace his stunning Italian surroundings - and escape speculation over his situation with the Roar hitmaker, 40 - he has touched down ahead of the nuptials. Orlando was seen looking casual in a black vest top and shorts, finishing off with white sports socks. He was seen stretching out as he strolled around the picturesque Italian streets with a pal, before spotting Kim, 44, and sister Khloe, 40, at nearby restaurant, The Gritti Palace. Advertisement read more orlando bloom Keeping Up With The Kardashians alum Kim looked chic in black Balenciaga trousers paired with a dark bandeau top. She pulled on a pair of silver sunglasses and brushed her locks into a slicked-back up-do and was seen opening her arms to welcome the Lord Of The Rings actor into an embrace. Her sister Khloe, decked out in bold leopard-print, could be seen watching the pair as she stood alongside. The trio then sat at the same table as wedding attendees mingling at the pre-ceremony event. Advertisement Most read in Celebrity Breaking Latest Jeff and Lauren's wedding venue was recently revealed as an "open air theatre" on a Venetian island. A series of jaw-droppingly pricey hotel suites have also been booked out for the happy couple and their guests. 'I thought I was going to die' - Hollywood star dropped FOUR STONE to play boxer leaving superstar fiancee horrified Kim and Orlando's warm welcome came after it was reported Katy - who shares daughter Daisy with Orlando from their 10-year partnership - told pals they were over back in January. The I Kissed A Girl songstress won't be part of the wedding celebrations - despite cutting a Advertisement ALL CHANGE Last week, The Sun reported how Orlando and Katy held crisis talks to try to save their relationship after leading increasingly separate lives. American news website TMZ then said Brit-born Orlando would be 'the life of the party' and that he would be hitting 'the dancefloor hard' when he arrives in Italy for the nuptials. An insider said: 'No one has decided it's definitely the end of the road for Katy and Orlando. 'They both love each other, but they have been living different lives for at least a year and in different mindsets.' Advertisement It's understood Orlando and Katy are planning on reuniting on July 4 when there is a break in her touring schedule. The insider added: 'They have barely been together for a decent amount of time, without distractions, for many, many months.' Tensions within their relationship also reached boiling point after Katy's flight to space on board Jeff's Blue Origin. Katy, along with Lauren and Advertisement They said: 'From day one, Orlando didn't think going on the Blue Origin mission was a good idea, and knew she would face a backlash.' DONE DEAL? Yet it was then claimed Katy - who is on tour in Australia - had told her mates their engagement was over at the start of the year, before removing her engagement ring. A source close to the couple said: 'Katy confided in friends at the start of the year that their relationship was as good as done . 'They decided to hold off on announcing anything in case things improved between them, because they are desperate to stay together for the sake of their daughter. Advertisement "But they have spent barely any time together this year, with Katy on tour and Orlando working on his upcoming film Bucking Fastard in Dublin. 'She knew that taking off her engagement ring would send a clear message. 'It's been a hard year so far. They wanted to wait until the tour is over before they made their split official, although Katy has grown tired of the situation.' The couple started dating in 2016 and got engaged three years later. However, The Sun understands they had difficult conversations about their future over Christmas and in January but struggled to make a firm decision. Advertisement Reps for the couple refused to comment when approached about their separation in February and again this week. 9 The KUWTK alum looked elegant in all-black attire with snazzy silver sunglasses Credit: Getty 9 Her little sister Khloe was also in on the chat Credit: Getty 9 It comes as Orlando is attending the wedding solo Credit: BackGrid Advertisement 9 We reported how Katy had told her pals their nine-year partnership was over earlier this year Credit: Getty 9 Orlando flashed his ripped figure as he strolled around Venice Credit: BackGrid
Time of India
20-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Elsa's Ice Magic quests: Full walkthrough & rewards
The quests associated with Ice Magic by Elsa in Disney Dreamlight Valley are magical adventures full of magic spells, challenges, and finding useful gifts. On your way through the adventures of Elsa, you will explore the mystical Frozen Realm and become a master of special challenges, and obtain some exciting content connected with her freezing powers. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now These adventures are not only an opportunity to get to know the Frozen characters better but also to gain access to special in-game objects and personalization. This guide will assist you with a full walkthrough of the Ice Magic quests by Elsa, going step-by-step and including the rewards that are gained along the way to make progress through the path and unlock all the offerings of Elsa. Step-by-step guide to Elsa's Frozen Realm quests Welcoming Elsa Quest Guide In Disney Dreamlight Valley To begin Elsa's Ice Magic quests, players must first unlock the Frozen Realm in Dreamlight Castle and invite Elsa to the Valley. Once Elsa arrives in your village, build your friendship to unlock her quests one by one. Key Quests in Elsa's Ice Magic series: Breaking the Ice (Friendship Level 2) Elsa needs help clearing the massive ice blocks. Tasks: Collect materials like sunflowers, sugarcane, lemons, and ice chunks. Craft the 'Warmth of Summer' Potion. Upgrade your pickaxe with Elsa's help to break through magical ice. Reward: Ice pickaxe upgrade, Friendship XP What home feels like (Friendship Level 4) Elsa wants to feel more settled in the valley. Objective: Help Elsa feel more at home by collecting memory shards and solving weather disturbances. Tasks: Track down memory shards in the Forest of Valor. Investigate the mysterious cold weather around your home. Reward: Crazy furniture and decorative items, additional XP The Singing Ice (Friendship Level 6) A strange melody leads Elsa to something magical. Objective: Locate the source of singing ice and unlock new ice-related powers. Tasks: Explore the cave filled with mysterious echoing sounds. Use sync glowing crystals using Elsa's magic. Reward: Unique icy-themed decor and clothing items. The Ice Cavern Mystery (Friendship Level 10) Elsa needs your help unlocking the secrets of her Ice Cavern. Objective: Unlock secrets of the Ice Cavern using Elsa's magic. Tasks: Solve ancient ice puzzles. Interact with enchanted statues and murals with magical carvings. Reward: Exclusive completion badge, high-tier rewards. The Ice Magic quests of Elsa are a combination of mystery, magic, and exploration, which further immerse the player in Disney Dreamlight Valley. Her questline not only rewards you with valuable in-game items but also upgrades your village with icy looks and magical charm. Continue to upgrade your friendship with Elsa to know all her magical secrets.
The Irish Sun
17-06-2025
- Sport
- The Irish Sun
Deflected strike provides Shelbourne with badly needed win against similarly underwhelming St Pat's
ST PAT'S suffered their first home defeat in 12 months as Shelbourne drew level with them on points. Ali Coote's deflected 10th minute shot was enough to claim the points with the home side better after the break but lacking the guile to find an equaliser. Advertisement 2 Shelbourne's players were delighted to get back to winning ways 2 But for Stephen Kenny it was another frustrating evening It ended a run of 22 matches - 17 in the league - without a home loss since Dundalk won here on June 3 last year. Neither side came into this game in particularly good form, both collecting five points from their previous four matches. It could be argued that both had raised expectations to unreasonable levels last season, Shels by winning the league and St Pat's by ending the campaign with nine straight wins. But, whether fair or not, there has been an air of disgruntlement around both teams, but more so with St Pat's. Advertisement Read More On Irish Football With two managers looking for a reaction, Damien Duff looked the more likely to obtain it early on. Jake Mulraney and Aidan Keena had been brought into the starting XI in place of Zach Elbouzedi and Mason Melia after Friday's disappointing draw against Drogheda. Neither did a whole lot in to justify their inclusion with Keena not getting a sniff of goal, bar when he was unable to get a clean connection on a deflected cross. There were flashes from Mulraney but no end product. Early on, a threatening run came to nothing as he tumbled out of play with his complaints that he had been fouled by Evan Caffrey falling on deaf ears. Advertisement Most read in Football Live Blog Exclusive Breaking Later, he covered serious ground before laying it off to Simon Power but looked to have run out of steam as he did not keep moving in search of a return pass. If their attacking left a lot to be desired then their defending for the opening goal in the 10th minute left a lot to be desired, even if there was a wicked deflection. Chelsea launch Club World Cup campaign with 2-0 victory over LAFC in Atlanta Mark Coyle surged forward before running into traffic. Harry Wood then laid it off to Caffrey on the right. With no defender in close proximity, Caffrey had the time to take a touch to tee himself up to pick out the unmarked Tyreke Wilson at the far post with a pinpoint cross. Advertisement The temptation might have been for WIlson to have a go himself. Instead, he had the presence of mind to cut it back to Ali Coote who unleashed a shot which changed direction after hitting Tom Grivosti to leave Joseph Anang with no chance. KENNY REACTION Presumably, that played some part in Stephen Kenny's decision to whip off both of his full-backs, Anto Breslin and Ryan McLaughlin, along with Mulraney at half-time. McLaughlin had been involved in St Pat's only chance in the first half with a good run down the right. Advertisement The deflection on Power's cross made it awkward for Keena. Jay McClelland had a go but his effort was charged down for a corner. Shels might have gone 2-0 up had Boyd tried to take a touch rather than meet Caffrey's cross first time with his scuffed volley going wide. The introduction of Melia gave the Shels defence more to contend with, evidenced by the teenager being fouled twice within seven minutes of coming on but referee Paul Norton was unmoved when Keena went to ground in the box when Paddy Barrett held him at bay. The ex-Sligo Rovers striker did manage to get a shot away a few minutes later but Conor Kearns was able to, comfortably enough, gather at the second attempt. Advertisement Later, Kearns got to a Power cross before Keena did and, when Elbouzedi looked set to pounce on the loose ball, Caffrey got his toe there first and the danger was cleared. Jamie Lennon went close from 20 yards with Kearns again proving his worth to deny Barry Baggley late on whilst almost making an easy save when opposite number Joseph Anang got his head on an injury-time corner. SUN STAR MAN: Evan Caffrey (Shelbourne) ST PAT'S: Anang 6; McLaughlin 5 (Sjoberg 46, 6), Redmond 6, Grivosti 6, Breslin 5 (Baggley 46, 6); Lennon 6, McClelland 5; Power 6, Leavy 6 (Elbouzedi 71, 7), Mulraney 5 (Melia 46, 6); Keena 5 (Carty 85, 4). Advertisement SHELBOURNE: Kearns 8; Bone 6, Barrett 7, Ledwidge 7; Caffrey 8 (Gannon 75, 6), Coyle 7, Lunney 6 (Kelly 70, 6), Wilson 7 (Norris 75, 5); Wood 6, Coote 6 (Chapman 60, 5); Boyd 7 (Martin 70, 6). REFEREE: P Norton (Dublin) 6
The Irish Sun
14-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Irish Sun
Why are royals wearing black armbands at Trooping the Colour? King Charles' decision explained
KING Charles has requested that members of the Royal Family wear black armbands at the Trooping the Colour parade. The monarch asked royals to wear the armbands in remembrance of those killed in the Air India plane crash on Thursday. Advertisement 7 King Charles could be seen wearing an armband as he saluted during the parade Credit: AFP 7 Prince William was spotted wearing a black armband as he rode down The Mall Credit: Max Mumby 7 Members of the Coldstream Guards at the Trooping the Colour ceremony Credit: PA Both King Charles and Prince William were spotted wearing a black armband as they made their way down The Mall. At least 241 people are understood to have died in the shocking tragedy in Ahmedabad, India. Those at the parade also held a minute's silence following the devastating crash. Those wearing the bands will be the Prince of Wales, Colonel of the Welsh Guards, the Princess Royal, Colonel Blues and Royals, and the Duke of Edinburgh, Colonel Scots Guards. Advertisement Read more in Royals A palace spokesperson said this is "a mark of respect for the lives lost, the families in mourning and all the communities affected by this awful tragedy". King Charles could be seen sporting his armband while he waved to crowds leaving Buckingham Palace. Princess Kate was spotted beaming as she arrived with William and the kids ahead of the parade. Hundreds of royal fans braved the early morning rain to queue for a good spot - covered in Union Jack flags and crowns. Advertisement Most read in Royals Exclusive Breaking They came prepared with umbrellas and rain coats after the Met Office issued storm warnings, as the UK is lashed by . Over 1,400 officers and soldiers, 400 musicians, 200 horses and 10 bands are taking part in t he event. Air India passenger plane 'carrying up to 242 people heading for UK' crashes in fireball near Ahmedabad Airport This year marks Charles' third Trooping the Colour parade as monarch. Coldstream Guards are on display for the world to see, dressed in full military regalia, alongside a huge number of supporting staff. Advertisement It is the first time the Coldstream Guards have trooped their colour in front of the King, as the honour rotates between five regiments of the Foot Guards. The parade today takes place almost five months before the King's actual birthday. Charles was born on November 14, though the reigning British monarch has two birthdays. The sovereign's birthday, which is celebrated through the Advertisement Prime Minister Keir Starmer posted on X this morning: "Sending my best wishes to His Majesty The King today at Trooping the Colour. "God Save The King." 7 Princess Kate beamed as she arrived with William and the kids Credit: Max Mumby 7 The parade today takes place almost five months before the King's actual birthday. Credit: George Cracknell Wright Advertisement 7 This year marks Charles' third Trooping the Colour parade as monarch Credit: George Cracknell Wright 7 There will also be a minute's silence at the event following the devastating air crash Credit: George Cracknell Wright
