Vijay Hazare Trophy Live Score: The debate around Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s ODI future gathered pace after BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar’s remarks in October 2025, when India’s squad for the Australia series was unveiled. While both senior batters were included, their uncertainty about playing the 2027 ODI World Cup sparked discussion. With T20Is and Tests already behind them, questions emerged about how they would stay motivated and maintain match fitness amid long breaks.

Those doubts appeared justified during the Australia series, which followed seven months without international cricket and nearly four months without professional cricket. Kohli struggled in the opening two ODIs, Rohit looked tentative, and visible rust led to speculation over whether time was catching up with them. However, the third ODI altered perceptions. Even though India had already lost the series, the sight of Rohit and Kohli batting together again brought reassurance and familiarity.

The momentum carried into the South Africa series, where Kohli looked close to his best, showcasing crisp footwork and timing, while Rohit regained fluency and ended with a fifty. Around the same period, attention shifted to domestic cricket following a new rule requiring centrally contracted players to feature domestically. The spotlight fell squarely on the two veterans, and both responded by turning out in the Vijay Hazare Trophy.

On December 24, they delivered emphatic statements of intent. Kohli scored 131 off 101 balls on his return after 15 years, becoming the fastest to 16,000 List A runs, while Rohit smashed 155 off 94. More than the centuries, their willingness to commit to domestic cricket highlighted enduring passion, focus and relevance, reaffirming their place as a formidable force in India’s one-day setup.

On Tuesday, December 23, 2025, Shivank Avasthi, a 20-year-old Indian-origin student, was shot dead near the University of Toronto Scarborough campus in Canada. The incident was confirmed by the Toronto Police department, classifying it as a homicide. As per the police officials, the investigation is currently ongoing. The shooting has drawn attention from Canadian authorities and Indian officials, and has caused concern among student communities.Avasthi was pursuing his PhD at the University of Toronto’s Scarborough campus. He was among the many Indian students who travel to Canada each year for higher education and research opportunities. His death has once again brought focus on the safety of international students studying abroad.

What police say about the shooting near the campus

According to the Toronto Police Service, officers responded to a call for “unknown trouble” on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, at approximately 3.34 pm, in the area of Highland Creek Trail and Old Kingston Road, close to the University of Toronto Scarborough Campus (UTSC).When police arrived at the location, Avasthi was found with a gunshot wound. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Police said the suspect fled before officers reached the area. No arrests have been made so far, and the investigation is ongoing.The area where the incident took place includes trails and pathways used by students and local residents.

Student safety and campus response

Canada is a popular destination for international students, including a large number from India, because of its education system and work opportunities. In recent months, however, some incidents near campuses and student housing areas have led to renewed discussions around student safety.Following the shooting, concerns were raised on the UT Scarborough campus about a possible active shooter situation. Toronto Police later stated that there was no information or evidence to suggest an immediate risk to public safety. University authorities and police have advised students to rely on official updates.

Indian Embassy confirms death

The Indian Embassy in Toronto confirmed Avasthi’s death through an official post on X and expressed condolences to his family.“We express deep anguish over the tragic death of a young Indian doctoral student, Mr. Shivank Avasthi, in a fatal shooting incident near the University of Toronto Scarborough Campus,” the statement said. The Consulate added that it is in contact with the bereaved family and is providing assistance in coordination with local authorities.

Why was he shot? What police have said so far

Toronto Police have said that no motive has been confirmed at this stage of the investigation. Authorities have not stated whether the shooting was targeted or random. The identity of the suspect has not been made public.Police have urged the public to avoid speculation while the investigation continues. Further details are expected to be shared as more information becomes available.

A digital billboard carrying the message “Jesus is Palestinian” lit up New York City’s Times Square this week, quickly becoming a flashpoint for debate among tourists, holiday visitors, and social media users. Installed during the Christmas season, the display has prompted sharp reactions, with some calling it provocative and others praising it as a statement meant to spark reflection.Funded by the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC), the billboard shows the slogan in large black letters against a green background, alongside a separate panel wishing passersby a “Merry Christmas.” Its placement in one of the world’s most visited public spaces ensured immediate attention, and controversy.

Tourists and netizens react to the message

Several visitors interviewed by the New York Post described the billboard as “divisive” and “inflammatory,” arguing that it felt out of place during a festive period meant for unity. Some British tourists, in particular, voiced discomfort, while others said that Jesus is a universal religious figure, making any modern political or ethnic label unnecessary.

Online, reactions were equally mixed. One user wrote, “That’s a beautiful and thought-provoking message to see in such a vibrant place!” Another responded simply, “Wait what?”

ADC defends billboard, says goal is to spark conversation

Adeb Ayoub, National Executive Director of the Arab American organization, told the New York Post that the non-profit has been renting advertising space in Times Square since earlier this year, with different messages rotating on a weekly basis.He said the broader theme behind the campaign is “America First,” aimed at encouraging people to see common ground between Arab and Muslim communities and Christians in the US during what he described as “the busiest time in New York City.”“There’s a lot more similarities between Arabs and Muslims and Christians in this country than others want to allow us to believe and there are similarities and there is a fear of culture, shared religion,” Ayoub told.“Most of the Americans in this country are Christian and the birthplace of Christianity is Palestine. If people wanna go back and forth and debate it, then great, the billboard sparked debate. At least you’re having a conversation about it. Otherwise, we’re silenced and our voices and positions don’t come out.”Ayoub added that Jewish groups he claims have waged a digital war against him since the Spring are free to promote their own views about Jesus as well.

Perth Scorchers and Hobart Hurricanes square off in Match 12 of the Big Bash League 2025-26 at Perth Stadium on Boxing Day evening, with both sides looking to consolidate their early-season positions near the top half of the table. The Hurricanes have started slightly better with two wins from three, while the Scorchers sit mid-table after one win and one defeat from their opening fixtures.​

Perth come into this clash with a 1–1 record, having bounced back from a high-scoring defeat with a convincing win at home, leaving them fourth on the standings with two points.​ Hobart sit second with four points after two wins and one loss, including a strong chase against Melbourne Renegades that underlined their batting depth.​

Historically, the Scorchers have been one of the BBL’s most successful outfits, but the Hurricanes are defending champions this season and are targeting another statement result away from Tasmania.

PS vs HH, BBL|15: Match details

• Date and Time: December 26 (Friday); 3:45 pm IST / 10:15 am GMT / 6:15 pm Local
• Venue: Optus Stadium, Perth
• Head-to-Head Record in BBL: Matches played: 21 | Perth Scorchers won: 13 | Hobart Hurricanes won: 8 | No result/Tied: 0

Optus Stadium Pitch Report

Perth Stadium (Optus) is one of the quickest surfaces in Australia, offering steep bounce and good carry for fast bowlers, especially under lights. T20 numbers at the venue show an average first-innings total around 140–145, with teams chasing winning more often (five wins in eight matches), suggesting captains may prefer to bowl first if conditions remain dry.​

The outfield is fast and square boundaries are inviting, so batters who handle pace and bounce can score rapidly once set, but totals above 160 usually require at least one substantial top-order contribution. With this being a night game starting at 6:15 PM local, a hint of dew could marginally aid chasing sides later on.

Squads

Hobart Hurricanes: Mitchell Owen, Tim Ward, Nikhil Chaudhary, Tim David, Ben McDermott, Rehan Ahmed, Matthew Wade (wk), Chris Jordan, Nathan Ellis (c), Rishad Hossain, Riley Meredith, Billy Stanlake, Jackson Bird, Will Prestwidge

Perth Scorchers: Mitchell Marsh, Finn Allen (wk), Cooper Connolly, Aaron Hardie, Ashton Turner (c), Laurie Evans, Nick Hobson, Ashton Agar, Jhye Richardson, Joel Paris, Brody Couch, Mahli Beardman, Sam Fanning, Joel Curtis, Bryce Jackson, Josh Inglis, Matthew Kelly, David Payne

Also WATCH: Tom Curran knocks over Jason Sangha’s stumps with an absolute ripper in BBL|15

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

Case 1:

• Perth Scorchers wins the toss and bowls first
• Hobart Hurricanes’ powerplay score: 45-55 (6 overs)
• Hobart Hurricanes’ total score: 155-175

Case 2:

• Hobart Hurricanes wins the toss and bowls first
• Perth Scorchers’ powerplay score: 55-65 (6 overs)
• Perth Scorchers’ total score: 170-190

Match result: Team bowling first to win the contest

Also READ: Tom Curran’s fiery three-wicket haul propels Melbourne Stars to an emphatic victory over Adelaide Strikers in BBL|15

Bullion hits new highs: It was a shiny session for precious metals on Friday, with gold and silver scaling fresh lifetime highs as investors rushed to the safety of bullion amid expectations of US interest rate cuts and rising global tensions.Silver led the rally, extending gains for a fifth straight session. On the Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX), silver futures for the March 2026 contract jumped Rs 8,951, or 4%, to a record all-time high of Rs 2,32,741 per kg. The white metal has surged Rs 29,176, or over 14%, since December 18. The sharp rise came as silver breached the $75-per-ounce mark in global markets for the first time.Gold also touched a historic milestone on the domestic bourse. Rising for the fourth consecutive session, MCX gold futures for February delivery climbed Rs 1,119, or 0.81%, to a fresh lifetime high of Rs 1,39,216 per 10 grams. Commodity markets had remained closed on Thursday due to the Christmas holiday.The rally gathered further momentum overseas. On the Comex, gold futures for February delivery rose $58.8, or 1.3%, to hit a new peak of $4,561.6 per ounce. Silver futures for March jumped $3.81, or 5.31%, to a record $75.49 per ounce, compared with $71.68 at the previous close.Explaining the surge, Jigar Trivedi, Senior Research Analyst at Reliance Securities, said gold prices climbed to around $4,500 per ounce “driven by safe-haven demand amid mounting geopolitical tensions and expectations of interest rate cuts by the US Federal Reserve,” PTI reported.“Investor focus remains on the ongoing US blockade of crude shipments from Venezuela, continued hostilities between Russia and Ukraine, and a recent military strike by Washington against ISIS in Nigeria,” Trivedi added.He also noted that markets are pricing in “two quarter-point rate cuts by the Federal Reserve next year as inflation cools and labour market conditions soften, even as Fed officials remain divided on the path ahead.”

What lies ahead?

According to Trivedi, “Gold prices have surged more than 70 per cent so far this year, marking its largest annual gain since 1979,” supported by strong central bank buying and sustained ETF inflows.Market experts believe the rally could extend into early 2026, backed by easing inflation, a weaker dollar and persistent geopolitical risks.“Gold is holding above the critical $4,500 level and could be eyeing $4,890, while silver looks steady above $70, eyeing $78, in the coming sessions,” said Manoj Kumar Jain of Prithvifinmart Commodity Research, ET reported.He added that risk aversion and a shift away from volatile assets continue to funnel money into precious metals, keeping bullish momentum intact.Meanwhile, the US Dollar Index remained subdued near two-month lows at 97.91. Trivedi said MCX gold February futures are likely to stay positive, with Rs 1,39,000 per 10 grams acting as the next key resistance.(Disclaimer: Recommendations and views on the asset classes given by experts are their own. These opinions do not represent the views of The Times of India)

Sustainablly grown French apple varieties showcased at a Kombucha workshop ahead of all India retail roll outThe Interprofessional Association for Fresh Fruits and Vegetables (INTERFEL) introduced the new season of French apples in India with a tasting and workshop at Food Square, Mumbai, marking the start of a wider retail and consumer campaign across the country.At the event, guests sampled French apple varieties such as Royal Gala, Granny Smith and Pixie in different formats – from fresh tastings to tapas and desserts – while learning about how the fruit is grown and supplied to India. A short introduction to INTERFEL highlighted its role in representing growers and promoting high-quality fresh produce from France.

French apples are known for their consistent taste and firm texture, supported by strict quality systems and advanced orchard practices. In 2025, French apple production is estimated at about 1.485 million tonnes, a 4% increase over 2024 and 3% higher than the three-year average, underlining the stability of the sector even in the face of climate challenges.

Classic international varieties such as Gala, Golden, Granny, Fuji and Rouge remain stable, while club varieties like Pink Lady, Jazz, Joya and Juliet are expected to grow by around 2%. Traditional French favourites, including Chantecler, Canada and Boskoop, are also set to increase, and emerging new varieties together are projected to reach about 145,000 tonnes this season, reflecting strong innovation in the orchards.

Behind these numbers is more than 25 years of work on sustainable farming. French apple growers use precision irrigation, advanced soil management and eco-friendly pest control, with the aim of keeping orchards in balance with nature while protecting water and soil for future generations.Chef Sushil Multani, who curated the evening menu, said: “Cooking with French apples was fun and absolutely delicious. The interplay of their bright tartness and natural sweetness came through beautifully in every dish. This versatile trio paired remarkably well across the menu, working seamlessly with seafood, cheese and even lamb.”

Kombucha specialist Vikram Mittal of Mavi’s Pantry added: “Whether it is the eye or in our pies, we love our apples in India. The French Pixie gave an extra sweet punch to our kombucha and the Granny Smith was perfect for the sauerkraut. Honestly, I couldn’t stop snacking on the Royal Gala either.”Following the Mumbai launch, the campaign will move into retail, with French apples made available at major supermarkets across India, supported by in-store tastings, interactive promotions and roadshows that invite families to discover the flavour and versatility of French apples first-hand.Disclaimer: Content Produced by Salveo International Development India Pvt Ltd

At just 14, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s cricketing journey has taken an extraordinary turn — from rewriting domestic records to being honoured on India’s biggest civilian stage for children. The Bihar batting prodigy is not part of his state’s Vijay Hazare Trophy fixture on Friday, not due to injury or loss of form, but because he is in New Delhi to receive the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar, India’s highest civilian award for youngsters.Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW!Sooryavanshi arrived in the capital on Wednesday and is set to be conferred the prestigious honour at a ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan, where President Droupadi Murmu will felicitate the awardees. The occasion will be followed by an interaction with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a rare and inspiring moment for a teenager still at the start of his cricketing life.

The award explains his absence from Bihar’s ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy campaign. According to his childhood coach Manish Ojha, Sooryavanshi had to report early in the morning for the ceremony, making him unavailable for Friday’s match and the remainder of the tournament. While missing competitive games is never easy for a young athlete, the national recognition represents a milestone few sportspersons experience so early in their careers.Sooryavanshi’s selection for the Bal Puraskar comes on the back of a jaw-dropping performance that stunned the domestic circuit. In Bihar’s opening Vijay Hazare Trophy match against Arunachal Pradesh, the left-hander smashed 190 off just 84 balls, laced with 16 fours and 15 sixes. He reached his century in only 36 balls, becoming the youngest centurion in List A cricket, and powered Bihar to a world-record 574/6 in 50 overs.

The Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar is awarded annually to children aged 5–18 for exceptional achievements across fields such as sports, bravery, innovation, science and social service. For Sooryavanshi, it recognises not just one innings, but a body of promise that has marked him out as a rare talent.Following the ceremony, the teenager is expected to join the India Under-19 squad, with preparations underway for the upcoming U-19 World Cup in Zimbabwe starting January 15.

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Saudi Arabia is taking a firmer stance against banned and counterfeit pesticides, with a draft regulation proposing jail terms, hefty fines, and strict enforcement measures. The new rules aim to protect public health, the environment, and agriculture, while giving authorities clear powers to penalize repeat offenders.

Stricter penalties for serious violations

The proposed regulation introduces strict consequences for anyone involved in manufacturing or importing banned or counterfeit pesticides. Under the draft, violators may face up to five years in prison, fines reaching SR10 million, or one of these two penalties. The Public Prosecution will investigate all violations and bring the cases before the competent court to enforce the penalties outlined in the regulation. In situations where the offender repeats the violation, the prosecution is authorized to double the penalties to ensure stronger compliance and deterrence.

Warnings for minor offenses

Not all violations will lead to immediate jail time or fines. The draft clarifies that if a violation is minor and does not cause significant harm to humans, animals, plants, the environment, or public health, the violator will first receive a warning. Authorities may then provide a grace period for the issue to be corrected before applying penalties.The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) will play a central role in reviewing violations related to public health pesticides. Responsibilities of the SFDA under the draft include:

Additionally, the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture can require violators to remove the cause of the violation. Repeating the offense within three years of a previous violation is considered a repeat offense, which can lead to doubling of fines.

The draft also outlines strict measures for dealing with the materials involved in violations. These include:

Beyond fines, the draft also allows authorities to temporarily close the facility for up to six months or even permanently shut it down in severe cases. Those penalized have the right to appeal the decision in the Administrative Court in accordance with its regulations.