NEW DELHI: The Centre on Tuesday said that the energy crisis in India still remains a matter of concern amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. However, it assured consumers not to panic over LPG supplies.During an inter-ministerial briefing on recent developments, Sujata Sharma, joint secretary in the ministry of petroleum and natural gas, advised judicious consumption of LPG and also advised using alternate sources for cooking.“On the issue of LPG, I would like to reiterate that the situation still remains a matter of concern. However, no LPG distributor is facing a dry-out situation at present. In addition, LPG supplies and cylinder deliveries for all domestic consumers are continuing as usual. With regard to online booking, I would like to inform you that there has been significant improvement, and as of today, nearly 94% of cylinder bookings are being made online. There has also been improvement in the delivery authentication code system, which has now reached 76%. As far as commercial LPG supplies are concerned, these were initially completely halted but were later partially restored,” Sharma said.“Cylinders that were placed at the disposal of various state governments and Union Territories are also being distributed. Several governments, including those of Bihar, Delhi, Gujarat, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Karnataka, Manipur, Rajasthan and Uttarakhand, have already issued allocation orders for non-domestic LPG,” she added.“Petrol and diesel are available in sufficient quantity. Regarding natural gas, as I told you, the Government of India is making efforts, and it would be beneficial if all commercial LPG consumers shifted to PNG,” Sharma said.Sharma also warned against hoarding and black marketing, saying that adequate measures are in place to ensure smooth distribution across the country.“Regarding enforcement action, so far, about twelve thousand raids have been conducted in the last few days. About fifteen thousand cylinders have been seized… Yesterday in Delhi, about six hundred cylinders were seized. Similarly, in Uttar Pradesh, about four hundred and fifty inspections and raids have been conducted in the last few days. Ten people have also been arrested. In Jammu and Kashmir, five hundred and sixty-four raids have been conducted, FIRs have been filed, and arrests have also been made. In Kerala, about a thousand raids and inspections have been conducted, and domestic and commercial cylinders have been seized. In Madhya Pradesh, too, about twelve hundred raids have been conducted, and about eighteen hundred cylinders have been seized,” she said.“Apart from this, the inspection teams of our oil marketing companies have also been activated, and surprise inspections have been conducted at about two and a half thousand retail outlets and LPG distributorships,” she added.State governments are undertaking enforcement measures to prevent hoarding and black marketing of petrol, diesel and LPG. Raids are being carried out in several states to check hoarding and black marketing of LPG cylinders.Alternate fuels such as kerosene and coal have been activated for certain sectors, including hospitality and restaurants, to ease pressure on LPG supplies.The shortage of LPG has emerged amid global energy supply disruptions triggered by the ongoing conflict in West Asia.

The National T20 Cup 2026 witnessed a moment of sheer disbelief on March 14, during the Group B clash between Karachi Region Blues and Lahore Region Blues. While the match at the Imran Khan Cricket Stadium in Peshawar was high-scoring and intense, the primary talking point wasn’t the boundary count, but a single delivery from young pacer Asad Akhtar that has since gone viral for all the wrong reasons.

Asad Akhtar under microscope for extraordinary no-ball in National T20 Cup 2026

In what can only be described as a lapse in spatial awareness, Akhtar delivered a front-foot no-ball so massive that it left commentators and fans stunned. In a sport where margins are usually measured in centimetres, Akhtar’s overstep was measured in nearly a full stride. Social media was quick to draw parallels to the infamous 2010 Lord’s scandal involving Mohammad Amir; however, many observers noted that Akhtar’s foot landed significantly further beyond the popping crease than Amir’s ever did.

Representing Karachi Region Blues, the inexperienced right-arm pacer had a nightmare outing. Entrusted with the ball, Akhtar struggled with his rhythm from the start, conceding 21 runs in his solitary over. His discipline wavered significantly, as he leaked two wides and two no-balls.

The giant no-ball occurred mid-over, where his front foot landed so far past the line that his back foot was nearly touching the bowling crease. For a young player who only made his debut earlier this year, the error highlighted the immense pressure of the National T20 circuit. Akhtar’s statistics currently reflect these growing pains; in his five career T20 appearances, he has maintained an economy rate of 9.14, which has ballooned to 11.25 during the current tournament. While there is no evidence of anything beyond a technical blunder, the sheer scale of the overstep has placed his bowling action and temperament under heavy scrutiny by fans and analysts alike.

A 25 year old Pakistani pacer, Asad Akhtar, bowled a shocking no ball in their ongoing premium domestic T20 tournament and it looked ridiculously suspicious. Spot fixing again. pic.twitter.com/zFRzScLFLx

— Kakarot (@MidOffMind) March 15, 2026

Also READ: Mohammad Hafeez picks 2 players who can replace Babar Azam in Pakistan’s ODI lineup

Karachi Region Blues dominate Lahore Region Blues despite Akhtar’s expensive spell

Fortunately for the young pacer, his expensive over proved to be a mere footnote in an otherwise clinical performance by Karachi Region Blues. Despite the 21-run gift to Lahore, Karachi’s massive total and disciplined bowling attack ensured an emphatic 57-run victory, solidifying their standing in Group B.

After being put in to bat, Karachi’s top order fired on all cylinders to post a daunting 206/3. The protagonist of the innings was Saad Baig, who played a blistering, unbeaten knock of 72 off just 37 balls, decorated with seven fours and four towering sixes. Contributions from Ahsan Ali (39) and Usman Rahim (33) provided the necessary platform for the late-innings fireworks.

Lahore’s chase never truly found its rhythm. The duo of Jahandad Khan and the experienced Shahnawaz Dahani dismantled the batting lineup, picking up four wickets each. Lahore Region Blues were eventually bundled out for 149 in 17.3 overs. This victory moves Karachi to fourth place in the standings with four points, providing a vital boost to their net run rate as the tournament progresses toward the knockout stages.

Also READ: Pakistan lodge complaint over controversial DRS call as Bangladesh clinch series with thrilling win in 3rd ODI

Gold opened sharply higher on Multi Commodity Exchange on Tuesday, as investors turned to safe-haven assets amid escalating tensions in the Middle East involving the US, Israel and Iran. The uncertainty has also kept oil prices above the $100-per-barrel mark. On the MCX, April 2026 gold futures rose Rs 1,260, or 1%, reaching Rs 1,56,996 per 10 grams. The gains came despite a slightly stronger dollar, which typically makes dollar-denominated bullion costlier for holders of other currencies. Oil markets continued to remain elevated, with supplies disrupted as the US-Israel conflict with Iran has largely closed the Strait of Hormuz. Globally, gold remained mostly steady. In early trade, spot gold edged up 0.1% to $5,007.61 per ounce at 0110 GMT, while US April gold futures advanced 0.2% to $5,011.70.Here’s how much gold costs in your city today:

Gold price in Ahmedabad today

In Ahmedabad, 24K gold is priced at Rs 15,867 per gram, while 22K comes at Rs 14,545 and 18K at Rs 11,902 per gram.

Gold price in Bangalore today

Bangalore sees 24K gold at Rs 15,862 per gram, 22K costs Rs 14,540, and 18K costs Rs 11,897 per gram.

Gold price in Bhubaneswar today

The rates in Bhubaneswar are Rs 15,862 for 24K gold, Rs 14,540 for 22K, and Rs 11,897 for 18K gold per gram.

Gold price in Chennai today

Chennai gold rates stand at Rs 15,982 for 24K, Rs 14,650 for 22K, and Rs 12,330 for 18K per gram.

Gold price in Delhi today

Delhi residents can buy 24K gold at Rs 15,877 per gram, 22K at Rs 14,555, and 18K at Rs 11,912.

Gold price in Hyderabad today

In Hyderabad, 24K gold costs Rs 15,862, 22K is Rs 14,540, and 18K comes to Rs 11,897 per gram.

Gold price in Jaipur today

Jaipur’s gold rates are Rs 15,877 for 24K, Rs 14,555 for 22K, and Rs 11,912 for 18K per gram.

Gold price in Kanpur today

Buyers in Kanpur can get 24K gold for Rs 15,877, 22K is priced at Rs 14,555, and 18K at Rs 11,912 per gram.

Gold price in Kolkata today

Kolkata’s gold pricing: 24K at Rs 15,862 per gram, 22K at Rs 14,540, and 18K stands at Rs 11,897.

Gold price in Mumbai today

In Mumbai, 24K gold sells for Rs 15,862, 22K is Rs 14,540, and 18K comes at Rs 11,897 per gram.

Despite featuring in the Top 10 highest run-getters in IPL history, these legendary players have never won the orange cap even after 18 editions of the tournament.

IPL Trophy. (BCCI/IPL Photo)

Despite featuring in the Top 10 highest run-getters in IPL history, these legendary players have never won the orange cap even after 18 editions of the tournament.

IPL Trophy. (BCCI/IPL Photo)

Despite featuring in the Top 10 highest run-getters in IPL history, these legendary players have never won the orange cap even after 18 editions of the tournament.

As the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 approaches its blockbuster start of the 19th edition on March 28, the tournament once again promises high-octane cricket, massive runs, and individual brilliance. In an era dominated by batting, where the highest run scorer of season leads to the prestigious Orange Cap, there is a shocking fact that some of the IPL’s greatest run-scorers have never claimed the award.Despite featuring in the Top 10 highest run-getters in IPL history, these legendary players have never won the orange cap even after 18 editions of the tournament.

1. Rohit Sharma: One of the biggest names in IPL history, Rohit Sharma is also one of the most successful captains, leading Mumbai Indians to five titles (2013, 2015, 2017, 2019, 2020). Known for his elegant batting, Rohit ranks 2nd in the top run-scorers in IPL history with 7,046 runs in 272 matches. Rohit Sharma’s best IPL season with the bat was arguably 2013, where he scored 538 runs to lead the Mumbai Indians (MI) to their maiden title. Despite his impact, he has never won an Orange Cap. 2. Shikhar Dhawan: Sitting 3rd on the all-time run charts, Dhawan has amassed 6769 runs in 222 matches. He came close to winning the Orange Cap in 2020 and 2021, where he was among the top contenders but narrowly missed out. Representing teams Sunrisers Hyderabad, Delhi Capitals, and Punjab Kings, Dhawan has delivered several memorable performances but never topped a season.3. Suresh Raina: Suresh Raina Often called ‘Mr. IPL’ was the backbone of Chennai Super Kings’ batting lineup. He scored 5,528 runs in 205 matches Sitting on 5th on the all-time run charts. His best season came in 2013 (548 runs), but even then, he fell short of the Orange Cap an astonishing fact given his dominance during IPL’s early years.4. AB de Villiers: One of the most destructive batters in IPL history, AB de Villiers thrilled fans with his innovative stroke play. He ended his IPL career with 5,162 runs in 184 matches currently sitting on 8th position, with his best season coming in 2016 (687 runs, 3rd place). Batting mostly in the middle order often reduced his chances of accumulating the highest seasonal tally, keeping the Orange Cap just out of reach.5. Ajinkya Rahane: Ajinkya Rahane currently at 9th position in all time run getters has been a dependable opener in the IPL, scoring 5,032 runs in 183 matches. His standout season came in 2012 (560 runs for Rajasthan Royals), yet he never finished as the top run-scorer in any edition. Despite his classical style and consistency, the Orange Cap has eluded him.

Honourable Mention: MS Dhoni

MS Dhoni, one of the most iconic players in IPL history, has also never won the Orange Cap. The Chennai Super Kings legend has led his team to five titles (2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, 2023) and scored 5,439 runs in 278 matches. Known more for his finishing role than accumulating big seasonal tallies, Dhoni’s best seasons 2018 (455 runs) and 2019 (416 runs) still weren’t enough to secure the award mainly because his role as a finisher limited his opportunities to score big runs across the season.

Top 10 highest ‘run scorers’ in IPL history

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Abrar Ahmed and Sunil Gavaskar

NEW DELHI: A fresh controversy has erupted in the cricketing world after Pakistan-born England cricketer Azeem Rafiq strongly criticised batting great Sunil Gavaskar for his remarks on Indian-owned franchises signing Pakistan players in overseas leagues.Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW!The debate was triggered after Abrar Ahmed was picked by Sunrisers Leeds for £190,000 in The Hundred auction, making him the first Pakistan cricketer to join an Indian-owned team in the competition. The move sparked backlash among Indian fans, prompting Gavaskar to weigh in with a strong opinion.

Writing in his Mid-day column, Gavaskar said Indian-owned franchises should refrain from signing Pakistan players, arguing that such financial transactions could indirectly contribute to harm against India. “The furore… is hardly surprising,” he wrote, adding that payments made to players eventually go to their government through taxes, which could be used for military purposes. “If the owner is Indian then he or she is contributing to the Indian casualties. It’s as simple as that,” he stated, also warning of possible fan protests and boycotts.Rafiq, however, did not hold back in his response. Sharing Gavaskar’s comments on social media, he wrote: “This is absolutely ridiculous & should be condemned… How are these comments acceptable? I don’t care how many runs you have scored. Vile stuff from Gavaskar.” His sharp reaction quickly gained traction, adding another layer to the already heated debate.

After the Hundred auction, Sunrisers Leeds head coach Daniel Vettori defended the signing, insisting it was purely based on cricketing needs. He revealed that the franchise turned to Abrar after missing out on England leg-spinner Adil Rashid, highlighting the Pakistan spinner’s variations and effectiveness, especially in powerplays.Meanwhile, Rajeev Shukla clarified that the BCCI has no jurisdiction over franchise decisions in foreign leagues, leaving the matter entirely to the team management.The episode has once again spotlighted the complex intersection of sport, politics and public sentiment, with Rafiq’s blunt criticism ensuring that Gavaskar’s remarks remain firmly in the spotlight.

The ongoing Middle East war has drained Dubai of much of its travel appeal. Emirates, the world’s largest international airline, is operating some flights to Dubai almost empty, as travellers avoid the Persian Gulf. Flights from the US and continental Europe have been hit hardest, with occupancy on several routes dropping sharply, as thecarrier faces challenges in restoring its network amid the escalating conflict.Data compiled by Emirates and reviewed by Bloomberg shows planes returning from Prague or Budapest carrying only 5% to 10% of passengers. Several aircraft from New York flew with just a fifth of tickets sold, and at least one Airbus A380 departed last week with fewer than 35 passengers on a jet that normally seats nearly 500. Departures from Chicago ran with half-empty cabins.Emirates faces several thousand no-shows daily on outbound flights, according to a memo, highlighting the complexity of running an operation that normally includes hundreds of daily flights that are nearly full. The airline is offering refunds and flexible rescheduling for flights until the end of the month.“Given the circumstances, current inbound occupancy is unsurprisingly light,” an Emirates official told Bloomberg. Emirates said it will continue to restore its network at pace, provided it can do so safely.Passenger demand remains weak, but the airline is also carrying cargo, including perishable goods, generating revenue. Boeing 777s are prioritised because they have more optimal cargo capacity than the Airbus A380. With the Strait of Hormuz effectively closed, Emirates flights are among the few ways to import supplies.Meanwhile, flights leaving Dubai show a different picture, as passengers continue to depart the city despite fewer planes being available. Operations have been disrupted by Iranian missile threats and several drone incidents near Dubai International Airport, which caused minor injuries and some damage since the war began. On Monday, Emirates suspended operations for more than seven hours after a fuel-tank fire, triggered by a drone, before resuming flights later the same day.Etihad Airways and Qatar Airways, the other major Gulf carriers, have resumed a thinned-out service, primarily focused on evacuating stranded passengers. Emirates, however, continues to operate at a faster pace than competitors, offering at least six times as many flights as Qatar Airways. Some Emirates aircraft remain out of position in Europe and China.On one Paris-Dubai flight, an Airbus A380 with a high-density layout seating about 600 carried only around 25 passengers, almost the same number as the crew needed to operate it. London Heathrow departures have fared slightly better, with about 20% of tickets sold, still far below Emirates’ usual near-full occupancy on its dozen daily UK services. Forward bookings for inbound flights are around a third of capacity, unusually low given the approaching busy Easter season.