The Sydney Sixers return to the SCG today to host the Adelaide Strikers in the 4th match of BBL|15. The Sixers are looking to bounce back from a rainy opening-night loss to the Scorchers, while the Strikers are kicking off their campaign with a fresh-look squad and a new captain.

The Sixers fell short in a rain-curtailed 11-over shootout against Perth but found a major positive in Jack Edwards, whose blistering 46 off 21 balls cemented his status as a premier domestic all-rounder. Babar Azam had a quiet debut, and the top order will be keen to set a stronger platform tonight. The return of veteran Jordan Silk provides much-needed stability to the middle order.

Strikers Under new captain Matthew Short, the Strikers are desperate to move past last season’s bottom-place finish. They’ve bolstered their pace attack with international recruits Hasan Ali and Luke Wood, and the experience of Chris Lynn remains their biggest threat at the top. With Alex Carey on national duty, they’ll rely heavily on Harry Nielsen behind the stumps and Jason Sangha to provide middle-order flair.

SS vs AS, BBL|15: Match details

• Date and Time: December 17 (Tuesday); 1:45 pm IST / 8:15 am GMT / 7:15 pm Local
• Venue: Sydney Cricket Ground, Sydney
• Head-to-Head Record in BBL: Matches played: 21 | Sydney Sixers won: 14 | Adelaide Strikers won: 07 | No result/Tied: 0

Sydney Cricket Ground Pitch Report

The pitch at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) is expected to be a traditional, well-balanced T20 surface. The surface generally offers good carry and bounce early in the game. Fast bowlers who can hit a hard length—like Ben Dwarshuis or Luke Wood—will find some zip and potentially a bit of swing with the new ball. As the match progresses, the ball typically comes onto the bat nicely.

Also READ: Tim Seifert’s spectacular century helps Melbourne Renegades crush Brisbane Heat in BBL|15

Squads:

Adelaide Strikers: Chris Lynn, Matthew Short (c), Jason Sangha, Liam Scott, Harry Nielsen (wk), Mackenzie Harvey, Jamie Overton, Hasan Ali, Lloyd Pope, Henry Thornton, Luke Wood, Alex Ross

Sydney Sixers: Daniel Hughes, Babar Azam, Josh Philippe (wk), Moises Henriques (c), Riley Kingsell, Jack Edwards, Ben Dwarshuis, Joel Davies, Jafer Chohan, Mitchell Perry, Todd Murphy, Hayden Kerr, Charles Stobo, Jordan Silk

SS vs AS, BBL|15: Today’s Match Prediction

Case 1:

• Sydney Sixers wins the toss and bowls first
• Adelaide Strikers’ powerplay score: 45-55 (6 overs)
• Adelaide Strikers’ total score: 170-180

Case 2:

• Adelaide Strikers wins the toss and bowls first
• Sydney Sixers’ powerplay score: 40-50 (6 overs)
• Sydeny Sixers’ total score: 160-170

Match result: Team bowling first to win the contest

Also READ: BBL|15: Chris Jordan shines as Hobart Hurricanes beat Sydney Thunder in last over thriller

Parliamentary panel recommends pen-and-paper format to improve reliability in national exams

The parliamentary standing committee on education, women, children, youth and sports has recommended a stronger focus on pen-and-paper exams for major national tests, highlighting recurring disruptions in computer-based examinations conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA). The committee, chaired by Congress MP Digvijaya Singh, reviewed the security, administration and financial functioning of the NTA in a detailed report tabled in Parliament.The report assessed 14 competitive examinations conducted by the NTA in 2024 and noted that at least five faced significant issues. UGC-NET, CSIR-NET and NEET-PG were postponed, while NEET-UG faced instances of paper leaks, and CUET (UG/PG) results were deferred. In early 2025, the report stated that in JEE (Main) 2025 held in January, at least 12 questions had to be withdrawn due to errors in the final answer key.Pen-and-paper exams and computer-based testingThe committee examined both pen-and-paper and computer-based test (CBT) formats. It found that pen-and-paper exams “offer more opportunities for paper leaks,” whereas CBTs “can be hacked in a manner that is difficult to detect.” Despite these concerns, the committee recommended a stronger focus on pen-and-paper exams, citing the proven reliability of CBSE and UPSC systems. It further advised that CBTs, when conducted, should only take place in government or government-controlled centres and “never in private centres.”Issues with vendors and administrationThe report highlighted ongoing problems with private vendors involved in paper setting, administration and correction. Several firms blacklisted by certain organisations or state governments continued to secure contracts elsewhere. The committee stated that “such blacklisted firms must not be engaged for any entrance test by the NTA or the state governments.” It recommended creating a nationwide blacklist of firms and associated individuals to prevent repeated involvement in exam-related malpractices.Financial review and capacity-buildingOver six years, the NTA collected an estimated Rs 3,512.98 crore and spent Rs 3,064.77 crore, leaving a surplus of Rs 448 crore. The committee suggested this corpus could be used to strengthen the agency’s capabilities to conduct tests independently, enhance regulatory oversight, and improve monitoring of vendors. Funding could also support better security measures for both pen-and-paper and computer-based exams.

Impacts of pen-and-paper exams

Implications for students and school curriculumA separate central panel has proposed reforms to reduce students’ dependence on coaching centres. It is considering conducting national exams such as JEE, NEET and CUET as early as Class XI. The plan aims to ease academic pressure in Class XII and limit daily coaching hours to two or three, down from five to six in many private centres.Officials said a hybrid assessment model could combine board marks with aptitude-based testing, strengthening classroom learning and internal assessments while reducing coaching reliance. NCERT has been tasked with coordinating with CBSE and state boards to compare Class XI and XII syllabi with entrance exam requirements, aiming to align school curricula and minimise disparities.Logistical challenges and exam conductTransitioning to pen-and-paper exams will require increased logistical efforts, including printing, secure transportation, invigilation, and manual evaluation. Despite these demands, pen-and-paper tests are expected to reduce technical errors, answer key issues and cyber vulnerabilities. Government-controlled centres and robust vendor oversight are considered essential to successful implementation.While the parliamentary committee did not mandate a full return to pen-and-paper testing, its recommendations emphasise the format as a reliable alternative. The decision on whether exams such as JEE Main, CUET and UGC NET will revert to pen-and-paper will depend on the government’s response and implementation of the committee’s findings.

FIFA World Cup Trophy (AP Photo)

FIFA World Cup organisers on Tuesday announced a new cut-price ticket category for the 2026 tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico, responding to growing criticism from fans over soaring prices. FIFA said it has created a limited “Supporter Entry Tier” priced at $60 for all 104 matches, including the final, in what it described as an effort to help travelling supporters follow their national teams.Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW!In a statement, football’s global governing body said the initiative was “designed to further support travelling fans following their national teams across the tournament”. The $60 tickets, equivalent to around €51, will be reserved exclusively for fans of qualified teams and will account for 10 percent of each national federation’s ticket allocation.

The move follows sharp criticism from fan organisations, led by Football Supporters Europe (FSE), which last week branded FIFA’s original pricing plans “extortionate” and “astronomical”. While welcoming the announcement, FSE said the measure fell well short of what supporters had been promised.“While we welcome FIFA’s seeming recognition of the damage its original plans were to cause, the revisions do not go far enough,” FSE said in a statement. The group previously claimed that ticket prices for 2026 were almost five times higher than at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, calling the pricing a “monumental betrayal of the tradition of the World Cup”.

FSE said that a fan following their team from the group stage to the final would still face a minimum cost of $6,900, despite a 2018 bid document promising tickets starting from $21. On Tuesday, the organisation described FIFA’s move as an “appeasement tactic”, arguing that only a few hundred fans per match would realistically benefit from the $60 tier, while most supporters would continue to face record prices. It also criticised the lack of specific provisions for disabled fans and their companions.British Prime Minister Keir Starmer echoed those concerns, welcoming the lower-priced tickets but urging FIFA to go further. “I encourage FIFA to do more to make tickets more affordable so that the World Cup doesn’t lose touch with the genuine supporters,” he wrote on X.FIFA said national federations would be responsible for ensuring the cheaper tickets go to “loyal fans closely connected to their national teams”. It also confirmed that fans who buy knockout-round tickets but see their team eliminated earlier will have administrative fees waived on refunds.The announcement comes amid what FIFA described as “extraordinary global demand”, with more than 20 million ticket requests already submitted. The first ticket sales draw, covering all price categories, is scheduled for January 13.

4.3-Magnitude Earthquake Hits Saudi Arabia / image: @ncmuae

Residents of Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province experienced an unexpected start to their Wednesday as a moderate earthquake rippled through the region. ^{While the tremor was strong enough to be picked up by sensitive regional monitoring equipment, the overall impact remained minimal, leaving the local community and neighboring countries safe.}

Saudi Arabia Earthquake 2025

In the early hours of Wednesday, December 17, 2025, a 4.3-magnitude earthquake shook the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia. The tremor was recorded at 2:11 am (UAE time) at a depth of about 50 kilometers beneath the surface, according to the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) of the UAE and seismic data from Saudi authorities.Seismologists describe this level of earthquake as moderate, strong enough to be measured clearly by instruments but unlikely to cause significant damage at the surface.

The epicenter

The quake’s epicenter was in Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province, a region that sits near the Arabian Gulf. While Saudi Arabia isn’t commonly thought of as a hotbed of seismic activity, the Arabian Plate and adjacent fault systems are geologically active, making smaller tremors a routine scientific observation. Past quakes of similar strengths, including earlier 4.3-magnitude events detected offshore near Jubail, have been tracked by monitoring networks without causing harm.Experts explain that these events often reflect the slow movement of tectonic plates, such as the Arabian Plate pushing against neighboring plates like the Eurasian Plate. This stress occasionally releases as minor tremors across the wider Gulf region.

Impact

Despite the 4.3 magnitude, which is classified as a “light” to “moderate” earthquake, authorities have been quick to reassure the public. The Saudi Geological Survey (SGS) and regional weather centers confirmed that:

The bigger picture

While Saudi Arabia isn’t typically known for frequent major earthquakes, the region does experience occasional seismic activity, particularly along its fault lines in the Red Sea and near the Arabian Gulf.Experts from the Saudi Geological Survey emphasize that the National Seismic Monitoring Network is constantly active, tracking every minor shift in the earth’s crust. This network provides real-time data to ensure that any potential threats are identified and communicated to the public instantly.Understanding the science behind small tremors helps communities stay informed without unnecessary alarm.

The fourth notable tremor

This midnight event marks the fourth notable seismic occurrence within the Kingdom or its immediate coastal waters this year. This series of minor quakes highlights the ongoing tectonic adjustments in the region:

Geologists explain that these frequent but minor events are often caused by the Arabian Tectonic Plate slowly colliding with the Eurasian Plate. Rather than a cause for alarm, experts see these as natural “pressure releases” that prevent the buildup of much larger, more destructive energy.For those living in the Eastern Province, this event serves as a gentle reminder of nature’s power. Geologists suggest that small tremors like these are often just the earth releasing built-up pressure in a safe, non-destructive way. As of now, the situation is entirely stable, and daily life continues as normal across the Kingdom.

A dramatic health scare on the morning of the match forced Australia to rewrite their plans against England for the third Ashes Test in Adelaide. After being left out of the initial XI on the eve of the match, veteran batter Usman Khawaja was handed a last-minute lifeline when Steve Smith was ruled out before the toss. Khawaja made the most of the unexpected opportunity, scoring a vital half-century to rescue the Australian innings after a shaky start.

Here’s why Usman Khawaja is in the playing XI despite being initially left out for the Adelaide Test

The Adelaide Oval saw chaotic scenes just an hour before the toss on Wednesday, December 17, 2025. Smith, who had been struggling with nausea and dizziness in the lead-up to the game, was assessed during the pre-match warm-ups. Despite his desire to play, the symptoms persisted, and he was seen looking “disconsolate” after a long discussion with captain Pat Cummins and coach Andrew McDonald. Cricket Australia later confirmed that Smith was suffering from a potential vestibular (inner-ear) issue, a condition he has managed intermittently in the past.

Captain Pat Cummins addressed the shock change at the toss:

“He (Smith) is feeling unwell and has headed home. But we are lucky to have someone like Uzzie come in. He came and gave it a crack this morning but didn’t think he was going to get up for this one… Usman will be at number 4.”

Smith’s absence was a massive blow for the hosts, as the star batter had just led Australia to victories in Perth and Brisbane during Cummins’ absence. However, the medical team prioritized his long-term recovery, expressing confidence that he will be fit for the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne.

Also READ: AUS vs ENG, Ashes 2025-26: Pitch report for 3rd Test, Adelaide Oval Stats and Records

Ashes 2025-26: Khawaja rescues Australia with composed half-century in the 3rd Test vs England

Drafted into the side just minutes before the toss, Khawaja walked into a high-pressure situation at an unfamiliar No. 4 position. Australia’s innings began disastrously as openers Travis Head and Jake Weatherald were both dismissed within six balls, leaving the hosts reeling at 33/2. Khawaja, who had been omitted from the initial XI following a lean run and back spasms, looked determined to prove his critics wrong. Despite surviving an early scare when Harry Brook dropped a regulation catch at second slip, the 38-year-old played with characteristic grit and composure.

Khawaja’s return was marked by a steadying partnership with Marnus Labuschagne, which anchored the Australian response.  Khawaja grabbed his lifeline in style, striking ten boundaries to reach 82 before eventually falling to Will Jacks. His 91-run stand with Alex Carey proved pivotal in guiding Australia toward a competitive first-innings total. By the time he was dismissed for 82 off 126 balls, Khawaja had not only steadied the ship but also likely secured his spot for the remainder of the series. His performance under immense pressure, moving from the outer to the team’s top scorer in a matter of hours, served as a powerful reminder of his enduring value to the Australian Test side.

Also READ: AUS vs ENG, Ashes 2025-26: Adelaide Weather Forecast for the 3rd Test

NEW DELHI: Congress leader and former Maharashtra chief minister Prithviraj Chavan on Wednesday refused to apologise for his remarks on Operation Sindoor, saying the Constitution gives him the right to ask questions.“Why will I apologise? It is out of the question. The Constitution gives me the right to ask questions,” Chavan said when asked whether he would apologise for his remarks.This comes a day after Chavan stirred controversy by claiming that India was “completely defeated” on the first day of Operation Sindoor, while questioning the conduct of the military operation.Also read: Former Maharashtra CM Prithviraj Chavan questions need for large Indian militarySpeaking to reporters in Pune, Chavan alleged that India suffered setbacks on the first day of the operation.“On the first day (of Operation Sindoor), we were completely defeated. In the half-hour aerial engagement that took place on the 7th, we were fully defeated, whether people accept it or not. Indian aircraft were shot down. The Air Force was completely grounded, and not a single aircraft flew. If any aircraft had taken off from Gwalior, Bathinda or Sirsa, there was a high probability of being shot down by Pakistan, which is why the Air Force was fully grounded,” Chavan said.The Congress leader further alleged that Operation Sindoor involved only aerial and missile warfare and saw no ground movement by the armed forces.“Recently, we saw during Operation Sindoor, there was not even a one-kilometre movement of the military… Whatever happened over two or three days was only an aerial war and missile warfare. In the future too, wars will be fought in the same way. In such a situation, do we really need to maintain an army of 12 lakh soldiers, or can we make they do some other work?” Chavan said.‘Insulting the army has become the hallmark of the Congress’Reacting strongly, BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla accused the Congress of repeatedly disrespecting the Indian Armed Forces and undermining national security operations.Poonawalla said the statements made by the former Maharashtra chief minister were “shocking” and targeted the Air Force and the armed forces.“Insulting the army has become the hallmark of the Congress party… This is not just Prithviraj Chavan’s statement; Rahul Gandhi has also made similar statements,” Poonawalla said.All these statements reflect Rahul Gandhi’s mindset, which is why Rahul Gandhi or the Congress party does not take any action against such leaders… These statements reveal their anti-army mentality,” he added.Union minister Giriraj Singh also launched a broadside against Chavan and said that no one has the right to “insult the valour of the Armed Forces.”“No one has the right to insult the valour of the Armed Forces. Those who do so can never think of the nation’s interest….It has become Congress’s habit to insult the Armed Forces,” Giriraj Singh said.Operation Sindoor was launched by India on May 7, targeting terror infrastructure deep inside Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). The operation was carried out in retaliation for the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, in which 26 civilians were killed.

Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Rodrigo De Paul (PTI Photo)

NEW DELHI: Lionel Messi capped his much-celebrated GOAT India Tour 2025 by sharing a minute-long video montage of his visit, offering fans a heartfelt glimpse into his whirlwind journey across the country and expressing optimism about the future of football in India. Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW!The Argentine legend posted the clip on social media on Tuesday, shortly after departing Jamnagar, writing: “Namaste India! What incredible visits to Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad and Kolkata. Thanks for the warm welcome, great hospitality and all the expressions of love throughout my tour. I hope football has a bright future in India!”

The video showcases Messi’s interactions with fans, young footballers and dignitaries across four cities, capturing the scale of enthusiasm that followed the World Cup winner throughout his stay. His message quickly resonated with Indian supporters, many of whom hailed the tour as a landmark moment for football in the country.WATCH – India tour video shared by Messi Messi’s final stop was Jamnagar, where he visited Vantara, the wildlife rescue and conservation centre hosted by Anant Ambani. Accompanied by Inter Miami teammates Luis Suárez and Rodrigo De Paul, Messi received a traditional welcome and toured the facility, which houses rescued big cats, elephants, reptiles and other animals. Praising the initiative, Messi described Vantara’s work as “truly beautiful” and said the experience would stay with him.Before Jamnagar, Messi completed a packed itinerary across India. The tour began in Kolkata, where overwhelming crowds underlined his immense popularity, despite some fan frustration over overcrowding. In Hyderabad, he featured in a 7-on-7 exhibition match and met Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, while also interacting with political leaders and young players. Mumbai saw Messi visit the Wankhede Stadium, where he met Indian football icon Sunil Chhetri and cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar.The Delhi leg served as the grand finale. Messi attended an on-field programme at the Arun Jaitley Stadium and made a brief appearance during a celebrity match involving the Minerva Messi All Stars. He spent time with young footballers, exchanged passes with Suárez and De Paul, and participated in a stage ceremony attended by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and several prominent dignitaries. Messi was presented with special Indian cricket jerseys and a commemorative bat signed by former Indian greats.