NEW DELHI: In the first response from a senior government minister on the sinking of the Iranian warship IRIS Dena by the United States Navy in the Indian Ocean, external affairs minister S Jaishankar said on Saturday that one Iranian vessel had sought and received permission to dock in India, while another – IRIS Dena – was caught on the “wrong side of events” near Sri Lanka.Also Read | India gave safe harbour to another Iranian ship days before IRIS Dena was sunk by USJaishankar made the remarks during the Raisina Dialogue 2026 being held in New Delhi.

“I too support UNCLOS (UN Convention on the Law of the Sea) and international law… We got a message from the Iranian side that one of the ships, which presumably was closest to our borders at that point of time, wanted to come into our port. They were reporting that they were having problems… On the 1st March, we said you can come in and it took them a few days to sail in and then they docked in Kochi… There were a lot of young cadets and they disembarked,” the external affairs minister stated.He added that there were two other ships as well, and the situation changed between them coming to India for fleet review and leaving after the exercise.

“This ship, or these ships, there were two other ships…When they set out and came here the situation was totally different. They were coming in for a fleet review and then they got caught on the wrong side of events. So for us, when this ship wanted to come in and that too in difficulties, I think it was the humane thing to do…We were guided by that principle. In a sense of the other ships, one obviously had a similar situation in Sri Lanka and they took the decision that they did, and one unfortunately didn’t make it,” he explained.The Iranian frigates had participated in the MILAN-2026 exercise hosted by India in Visakhapatnam last month. IRIS Dena was on its way back in international waters when it was struck by a torpedo fired by a US Navy submarine early Wednesday, described by secretary of war, Pete Hegseth, as “quiet death.”The fact that the vessel that was sunk was returning from India and was struck in the Indian Ocean led the opposition to criticise the government.Also Read | IRIS Dena sinks: Blaming India for US strike on Iran frigate illogical, says BJPAddressing this aspect, Jaishankar pointed to how foreign militaries already have a presence in the region.“There are a lot of social media debates going on over this…. Please understand the reality of the Indian Ocean. Diego Garcia has been in the Indian Ocean for the last five decades…The fact that there are foreign forces based in Djibouti happened in the early first decade of this century. Hambantota Port (in Sri Lanka) came up during this period,” he stated.Diego Garcia is a joint US-UK military base located on the island of the same name in the Chagos archipelago in the Indian Ocean.Also Read | Iran warns US will ‘regret’ sub attack on IRIS Dena; 2nd warship seeks refuge in Sri LankaIRIS Dena was sunk by the United States under its Operation Epic Fury against Iran, launched on February 28 along with Israel, which calls its campaign Operation Roaring Lion. More than 80 sailors aboard the frigate were killed, while 32 were rescued by the Sri Lankan Navy.Tehran has responded by launching Operation True Promise 4, under which it has targeted Israel as well as American military bases in Gulf states. The strikes have also targeted civilian infrastructure in the Gulf countries, drawing them into the conflict.

As India gear up to face New Zealand in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 final at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, team management faces a crucial selection decision. Head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Suryakumar Yadav must decide whether to persist with Varun Chakravarthy, who has struggled for wicket in this tournament, or bring back Kuldeep Yadav for the all-important final.

T20 World Cup 2026 Final: Three reasons why India should drop Varun Chakravarthy for Kuldeep Yadav

1. Varun Chakravarthy’s dip in form

Varun Chakravarthy’s form has noticeably declined since the tournament entered the Super Eight stage. His struggles were most evident during the semi-final against England at Wankhede Stadium, where the mystery spinner endured a difficult outing. Varun conceded 64 runs in his four overs and managed just one wicket, making it one of the most expensive spells ever recorded in T20 World Cup history.

While a single bad match can happen to any bowler, the bigger concern is the overall trend. During the group stage, Varun was in excellent form, picking up nine wickets while maintaining an impressive economy rate. However, in the Super Eight matches, his effectiveness dropped significantly. He took only a few wickets while conceded runs at a much higher rate. Batters from teams like South Africa, Zimbabwe West Indies and England were able to read his variations more comfortably, reducing the impact of his mystery spin. In a high-pressure final, India may not want to take the risk of continuing with a bowler who appears to be struggling for rhythm.

2. Kuldeep Yadav’s proven record in big matches

Kuldeep Yadav presents a strong alternative for India. The left-arm wrist spinner has consistently delivered impressive performances in recent years and has built a reputation as a wicket-taking option in the middle overs. Since making his comeback to the national side, Kuldeep has taken a remarkable number of wickets in T20 internationals while maintaining excellent control over his economy rate.

More importantly, Kuldeep has a proven record in high-pressure matches. He played a crucial role in India’s successful T20 World Cup campaign in 2024. In the semi-final of that tournament against England, Kuldeep produced a brilliant spell, taking three wickets while conceding very few runs and helping India defend a modest total. Performances like that highlight his ability to deliver when the stakes are highest.

In the current tournament, Kuldeep has had limited opportunities but looked sharp in the match against Pakistan, where he kept the runs down and bowled with control. Having a bowler with such experience and composure could be invaluable in a World Cup final where pressure often decides the outcome.

3. Pitch conditions could suit Kuldeep better

Another factor that could influence India’s selection is the nature of the pitch in Ahmedabad. Reports suggest that the surface for the final will feature a mix of red and black soil, with a greater proportion of red soil. Typically, red-soil pitches offer good bounce and pace but provide limited turn for spinners early in the game.

On such surfaces, bowlers who rely heavily on sharp turn may struggle if the ball does not grip as expected. Varun’s style often depends on deceiving batters through variations and turn. If the pitch offers minimal assistance, his effectiveness could be reduced.

Kuldeep, however, brings a slightly different approach. His quicker trajectory, ability to vary pace, and skill in hitting consistent lengths could make him more suited to a flatter surface. Even when the pitch offers little turn, Kuldeep has shown that he can still create chances through flight and subtle variations.

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026 – Team India’s road to the final under Suryakumar Yadav

A tough decision for Team India

India, therefore, faces a classic selection dilemma. Varun Chakravarthy has been one of the standout bowlers earlier in the tournament, but his recent performances have raised doubts. Kuldeep Yadav, on the other hand, offers strong statistics, experience in knockout games, and a style that could be better suited to the conditions in Ahmedabad.

Ultimately, the decision will come down to what the team management values more – backing a bowler who has already delivered in the tournament or making a bold call to bring in a proven match-winner for the biggest match of the competition.

With the T20 World Cup trophy at stake, every decision could prove decisive. If India want to lift the title once again, the selection of their bowling attack for the final may well be one of the most important choices they make.

Also READ: India vs New Zealand T20 World Cup 2026 final – Reserve day, overs rule and who lifts the trophy if it rains

NEW DELHI: The row over venue change in President Droupadi Murmu‘s Santal event escalated with Prime Minister Narendra Modi slamming the TMC government in the state, claiming that they were against tribal communities. Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee targeted the BJP for “using” the President to “malign” the state, advising Murmu to “not indulge in politics”. Earlier, Murmu had flagged concerns over venue change accusing the state administration of choosing a place where “Santal people can’t go”.“This is shameful and unprecedented. Everyone who believes in democracy and the empowerment of tribal communities is disheartened. The pain and anguish expressed by Rashtrapati Ji, who herself hails from a tribal community, has caused immense sadness in the minds of the people of India. The TMC Government of West Bengal has truly crossed all limits. Their administration is responsible for this insult to the President,” PM Modi said in a post on X.“It is equally unfortunate that a subject as important as Santal culture is treated so casually by the West Bengal Government. The office of the President is above politics and the sanctity of this office should always be respected. One hopes better sense prevails among the West Bengal Government and TMC,” he added.

‘Don’t play politics on BJP’s advice’: Mamata hits back at Murmu

Mamata Banerjee questioned Murmu’s concern for tribals saying, “Why don’t you protest when atrocities are committed against tribals. Why don’t you protest when it happens in Madhya Pradesh or Chhattisgarh?… First do something for them, then say anything.”“Don’t play politics at the time of the election, as per the BJP’s advice,” she added.She further accused the BJP of using Murmu to malign West Bengal. “BJP has stooped so low that it is using President Droupadi Murmu to malign West Bengal,” she said.

What had Murmu said

Murmu had expressed strong displeasure over the last-minute change of venue for an event she was scheduled to attend in West Bengal, saying authorities told her the original location was too congested.“Today was the International Santal Conference. When I came here after attending it, I realised it would have been better if it had been held here, because the area is so vast… I don’t know what went through the administration’s mind… They said no, the place is congested. But I think five lakh people could gather here easily. But I don’t know why they took us there… I don’t know what went through the administration’s mind that they chose a place for the conference where the Santal people couldn’t go... I am very sad that the people here were unable to reach the conference because it was held so far away,” she said.She said the last-minute change had left her saddened and also noted that chief minister Mamata Banerjee did not meet her during the visit, which she described as a departure from usual protocol.“Perhaps the administration had hoped that no one would be able to attend, and the President would simply turn around and leave… If the President visits a place, the Chief Minister and the Ministers should also come. But she did not… I am also a daughter of Bengal… Mamata Didi is also my sister, my younger sister. I don’t know if she was angry with me, that’s why this happened,” she said.

On the eve of International Women’s Day, India’s growing push towards women’s financial empowerment is drawing attention to the changing role of women in the country’s economy. From gaining access to skill training, and hands on support to run small enterprises to operating agricultural drones, women are increasingly stepping into new financial roles and becoming active participants in India’s development story. Backed by a series of government initiatives over the past decade, more women across rural and urban India are gaining access to savings, credit, skills and markets, helping them build independent livelihoods and support their families. From savings schemes for the girl child to credit support, self-help groups (SHGs), entrepreneurship programmes and technology-driven livelihoods, policy efforts have focused on bringing more women into the economic mainstream and ensuring inclusive growth where no woman is left behind.One of the key initiatives supporting financial security for girls is the Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY), launched in 2015 under the Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao campaign. The savings scheme allows families to invest for a girl child’s education and future, offering an interest rate of 8.2% per annum along with tax benefits. According to government data, deposits under the scheme have crossed Rs 3.33 lakh crore as of December 2025. In rural areas, the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana–National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM) has brought together more than 10 crore women into self-help groups (SHGs), providing access to credit, skill training and livelihood opportunities. The network has become one of the world’s largest women-led community platforms, with repayment rates above 98%. Technology is also being introduced to expand income opportunities. Under the NaMo Drone Didi initiative, women from SHGs are being trained to operate agricultural drones used for spraying fertilisers and pesticides, enabling them to earn through drone rental services while promoting precision farming. Entrepreneurship initiatives are also gaining ground. Programmes such as the Lakhpati Didi campaign aim to help women SHG members achieve annual household incomes exceeding Rs 1 lakh through sustainable enterprises. Meanwhile, the Government e-Marketplace’s Womaniya initiative is enabling women-led businesses to supply goods and services directly to government buyers. Complementing these efforts are financial inclusion schemes such as the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana, and Stand-Up India, which provide banking access and collateral-free loans for women entrepreneurs.

Piyush Goyal (File photo)

Commerce and industry minister Piyush Goyal on Saturday said India has secured the best trade deal with the United States among competing nations, highlighting the strength of the economic and strategic partnership between the two countries, reported PTI.Speaking at the Raisina Dialogue 2026 in New Delhi, Goyal said India and the US share a “very powerful” relationship, adding that the world’s largest economy remains an important partner for New Delhi.

“It has been a fantastic journey. We have the best of relations. You would have observed that through the last year, President Donald Trump has always had the best things to say about India as a country, and about Prime Minister (Narendra) Modi. We have fantastic relations with our counterparts there.“Even within your family, sometimes you can have one or two misunderstandings. It’s a part of the course. I think it’s a very, very powerful relationship that the US and India share. And we got the best deal amongst all the nations with whom we compete,” Goyal said.He added that the two countries are strategic partners and the largest democracies in the world, noting that the US, with a $30 trillion economy, remains central to global trade.“We have a large responsibility cast on both our nations. They are the world’s largest economy, USD 30 trillion economy, nobody can wish them away,” he said.Explaining the significance of trade agreements, Goyal said such deals are meant to secure preferential access for a country’s goods and services compared to competitors.“What’s a trade deal? You are trying to get a preference or a preferential access for yourself, your goods, your services, compared to your competitor. And we got the best deal amongst all the competing nations. I mean whether it’s in our neighbourhood Pakistan or Bangladesh. If we look at the Asian region, we got the best deal amongst all of the competitors…” he said.The minister added that the India-US partnership extends beyond trade, encompassing technology cooperation, critical minerals, defence ties and investments.“There’s a huge technology overlay on it. There’s a huge critical minerals partnership, there’s a defense partnership, there’s a huge amount of investments that flow into India from the US. So it’s a partnership of two countries which is going to define the future,” he said.His remarks come as India and the US have finalised the framework for the first phase of a bilateral trade agreement, under which Washington had announced it would reduce reciprocal tariffs on India to 18 per cent.However, after the US Supreme Court struck down the tariffs, President Donald Trump imposed a 10 per cent tariff on all countries from February 24 for 150 days.A meeting between the chief negotiators of the two countries to finalise the legal text of the agreement has also been postponed.Under the proposed deal, India will eliminate or reduce tariffs on US industrial goods and a range of American agricultural products, including dried distillers’ grains (DDGs), red sorghum for animal feed, tree nuts, fresh and processed fruits, soybean oil, wine and spirits, among others.India has also indicated that it plans to purchase $500 billion worth of US energy products, aircraft and aircraft parts, precious metals, technology products and coking coal over the next five years.Goyal also referred to the nine free trade agreements finalised by the Modi government, saying they were negotiated while safeguarding domestic interests.“These nine free trade agreements, I can say on record with all the courage that I have on my command with all the responsibility that in not a single trade deal, has India compromised on any sensitivity of any of our stakeholders,” he said.Opposition parties, however, have alleged that the government has compromised the interests of farmers in the India-US trade pact.Goyal said opening the auto sector under certain FTAs would expand consumer choice and create employment opportunities.“Demand for this industry is growing at an average of 8 per cent. So you can imagine how much more scope we have to create jobs,” he said.He added that while companies from FTA partner countries may initially export cars to test the Indian market, they would eventually need to manufacture locally once demand is established.“Initially they can sell, say, 5,000 cars or 10,000 cars, to test the market, find the distraction — and then come and manufacture here,” he said.He added that the government’s broader objective is to build a global network of trade partnerships through multiple FTAs.

India’s Jasprit Bumrah (ANI Photo)

Ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 final between the India national cricket team and the New Zealand national cricket team, former Australia captain Michael Clarke has showered praise on star Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah, describing him as the most crucial bowler in world cricket at the moment. Clarke also suggested that Bumrah could play a decisive role in the title clash and even emerge as the Player of the Match.Bumrah has been one of India’s standout performers in the ongoing tournament. He currently sits second on the team’s wicket-taking charts with 10 scalps from seven matches, only behind Varun Chakaravarthy, who has 13 wickets. The fast bowler has also maintained an impressive economy rate of 6.63, the best among Indian bowlers in this edition.

Speaking on the Beyond23 cricket podcast, Clarke highlighted Bumrah’s exceptional ability to deliver under pressure, saying his execution sets him apart from the rest.“One thing is having so many options (variations), but most importantly, having the skills to execute under pressure. This is what makes him the best in the world. He has been a defining factor for India. I wouldn’t be surprised if he is Man of the Match in the final. He’s just so dominant.”Clarke further emphasised Bumrah’s value across all formats of the game, calling him a rare match-winner who consistently delivers in high-pressure situations.“India are the standout team in this tournament. They have been absolutely brilliant. We probably haven’t spoken much about him throughout this World Cup campaign, because we now just expect it. Bumrah. He is just a freak. All three formats, he is, by a distance, the most important player in the world in all three formats. He is a match-winner. He bowls the most difficult overs. Run-saving machine, wicket-taker, execution under pressure is better than anybody in world cricket.“The former Australian skipper also reflected on the challenge of managing a bowler like Bumrah if he were leading a team. According to Clarke, deciding when to use the pacer during an innings would be the biggest tactical decision for any captain.“He’s got so many different skills. It’s like when you see the best batters, we always talk about how they make runs under pressure, but they do it in different conditions around the world. Bumrah does that. He wins games in all different conditions and at different stages of the game. If I was captaining him, my biggest challenge would be when to use him. That’s why they don’t look to open the bowling with him and you want two overs from him at the death.“

Suryakumar Yadav responded to comments made by Mitchell Santner about silencing the home crowd in the final

NEW DELHI: India captain Suryakumar Yadav on Saturday responded to comments made by Mitchell Santner about silencing the home crowd in the final of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in Ahmedabad, saying such remarks have become common before major matches.India will face New Zealand in the final at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Sunday.Earlier in the day, New Zealand captain Santner had said his team would look to quieten the home crowd during the final. His statement was similar to one made by Pat Cummins before the final of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 at the same venue, when Australia defeated India.“The goal is to silence the crowd. There are a lot of variables in T20 cricket, and it is fickle at times,” the 34-year-old said. “If we go out about our business the same way we can upset another big team. There’s obviously a lot of pressure on in there (on India) to win this World Cup at home.”

Responding to the remark, Suryakumar said such statements are now repeated often before major games.“Sab he same line chipka rahe hai. Kuch to naya bolo (Everyone is now saying the same thing. Come up with something new),” Suryakumar Yadav told reporters in the pre-match press conference.The 35-year-old India captain, who is the second-highest run-scorer for the team in the 2026 T20 World Cup, said leading the side in a World Cup final comes with pressure but he wants to enjoy the occasion.He added that the atmosphere in the Indian dressing room remains positive as the team prepares for the final.“It’s a special feeling and everyone is very excited. We have a very good environment in the group. We are looking forward to the big final,” he said.“As a leader, there would be pressure; I cannot deny that. Definitely, there would be added pressure, the excitement is there of playing a World Cup final, that too in India,” Suryakumar added.India became the first defending champions to reach the final of the T20 World Cup. They will look to win the title and also become the first host nation to lift the trophy when they face New Zealand on Sunday.

Cricket fans around the world are eagerly awaiting the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 final, where India will face New Zealand in a high-stakes clash on Sunday, March 8, in Ahmedabad. The summit clash promises to be a thrilling encounter between two teams that have showcased remarkable consistency and resilience throughout the tournament.

India have enjoyed an impressive campaign under captain Suryakumar Yadav, combining explosive batting with disciplined bowling to reach the final. Several players have stepped up during crucial moments, helping the defending champions overcome strong opposition and maintain momentum heading into the decisive match.

New Zealand, on the other hand, have once again demonstrated why they are one of the most dependable sides in global tournaments. Known for their tactical discipline and calm approach in pressure situations, the Black Caps have navigated tough matches to book their place in the final.

With the title on the line, fans and experts have begun debating which players could emerge as the match-winners. While names like Jasprit Bumrah, Sanju Samson, and other star performers often dominate discussions, former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin believes another player could quietly play a decisive role in the final.

Ravichandran Ashwin names India’s key player in the T20 World Cup 2026 final

Ashwin recently shared his thoughts on India’s prospects in the final and highlighted Shivam Dube as a player New Zealand must keep a close eye on. Speaking on his YouTube channel, the veteran off-spinner said Dube’s contributions in the tournament have been significant but have not received the attention they deserve.

According to Ashwin, Dube has consistently delivered impactful performances, particularly in the middle overs when the pressure is high and spinners are often introduced into the attack.

“It is important to speak about one player who has been pivotal and has done so very well, but he’s been spoken very little about. I am talking about Shivam Dube. All Rashid and the other bowlers had to do was think if their team can chase 10 runs less. Rashid bowled a couple of really good bad deliveries,” Ashwin said.

Ashwin also explained that Dube’s ability to dominate spin bowling could pose a serious threat to New Zealand’s bowling strategy. The former India spinner believes the Black Caps will need a clear plan to contain him, especially when their spinners come into the attack.

“If you are New Zealand, Shivam Dube is someone you have to keep very quiet, because he can take the game away from you when spinners are on operation. New Zealand have got Santner and Ravindra, who I think they will try to avoid against Dube. If you miss the lengths, Dube is going to take you for plenty,” added Ashwin.

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026: Team India’s road to the final under Suryakumar Yadav

Impactful run in the tournament

Dube has been one of India’s most reliable middle-order batters in the tournament, often stepping up when the team needed momentum. His aggressive approach and ability to clear the boundary with ease have made him a crucial asset in India’s batting lineup.

One of his most memorable contributions came in the semi-final against England, where he played a decisive innings under pressure. Dube scored 43 runs from just 25 deliveries, striking one boundary and four towering sixes while maintaining a remarkable strike rate of 172. His knock helped India accelerate at a crucial stage and set the platform for victory.

Across the tournament so far, Dube has accumulated 209 runs in seven matches, averaging 34.83 with a blistering strike rate of 159.54. His tally also includes a valuable half-century, further highlighting his consistency.

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026 Closing Ceremony: Performers, Timings and Everything You Need to Know