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‘Can’t win even 25-30 seats without Congress’: TVK leader slams DMK | India News


'Can’t win even 25-30 seats without Congress': TVK leader slams DMK

NEW DELHI: The Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) on Monday took a dig at the ruling DMK in Chennai, saying it would struggle to win even 25 to 30 seats in the upcoming Assembly elections without the Congress in its alliance. TVK leader C T R Nirmal Kumar claimed the DMK’s current strength relied heavily on its partners and could not sustain itself independently, news agency PTI reported.Speaking to the reporters, Kumar said “If the Congress is not there, DMK cannot cross 25 to 30 seats. This is the ground reality today. Even in 2006, the DMK would not have crossed 30 seats without the Congress. The chief minister knows this very well.”Kumar, whose party was founded by actor-politician Vijay, described the Congress as a “natural partner” respected across Tamil Nadu and criticised DMK leaders for showing a lack of “basic respect” to the national party, which he said had led to friction within the ruling coalition.He added, “The DMK is in a state of deep fear after seeing TVK’s field reports and surveys. This is why they are desperately trying to induct anyone into their alliance, even parties like the DMDK, which no one expected them to touch.”Taking aim at the BJP, the TVK leader condemned its “religious-based politics”, specifically citing PM Modi’s visit to Thiruparankundram. He warned against attempts to turn peaceful shrines into “disputed areas like Ayodhya” and criticised the DMK government for inaction. “Stalin, who holds the law and order portfolio, should have at least issued an advisory to the PM’s office or moved the court to prevent this unnecessary controversy. The DMK is intentionally allowing this to happen to pick up religious politics themselves later,” he alleged.On TVK’s electoral plans, Kumar said the party had completed preparatory workshops across all 234 Assembly constituencies.



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Gold price today: How much 24K, 22K gold costs in Delhi, Bangalore & more – check rates


Gold price today: How much 24K, 22K gold costs in Delhi, Bangalore & more - check rates

Gold prices witnessed broad-based corrections across major retail markets on Monday, with most cities reporting declines in both 22 carat and 24 carat rates. The pullback in physical markets comes amid softer domestic trends, even as underlying bullion sentiment remains sensitive to global cues, especially amid the ongoing Iran-Israel-US conflict. Here is how much gold costs today across key cities Gold price in Delhi today In the national capital, 24 carat gold fell Rs 2,570 to Rs 1,70,660 per 10 grams from Rs 1,73,230 earlier. 22 carat gold declined Rs 2,350 to Rs 1,56,450 per 10 grams, compared with Rs 1,58,800 yesterday. Gold price in Chennai today Chennai saw moderate losses, with 24 carat gold down Rs 1,250 at Rs 1,70,840 per 10 grams, versus Rs 1,72,090 previously. 22 carat gold eased Rs 1,150 to Rs 1,56,600 per 10 grams from Rs 1,57,750. Gold price in Mumbai today Mumbai mirrored the northern trend as 24 carat gold dropped Rs 2,570 to Rs 1,70,510 per 10 grams, against Rs 1,73,080 yesterday. 22 carat gold slipped Rs 2,350 to Rs 1,56,300 per 10 grams from Rs 1,58,650. Gold price in Kolkata today Kolkata recorded the sharpest correction among major metros. 24 carat gold plunged Rs 3,280 to Rs 1,69,800 per 10 grams, down from Rs 1,73,080. 22 carat gold fell Rs 3,000 to Rs 1,55,650 per 10 grams, compared with Rs 1,58,650 earlier. Gold price in Hyderabad today Hyderabad tracked Mumbai’s movement, with 24 carat gold down Rs 2,570 at Rs 1,70,510 per 10 grams from Rs 1,73,080, while 22 carat gold declined Rs 2,350 to Rs 1,56,300 per 10 grams versus Rs 1,58,650. Gold price in Bangalore today Bangalore stood out as the only major market to register gains. 24 carat gold rose Rs 1,800 to Rs 1,70,510 per 10 grams from Rs 1,68,710. 22 carat gold advanced Rs 1,650 to Rs 1,56,300 per 10 grams, up from Rs 1,54,650. Gold price in Ahmedabad today Ahmedabad reported declines in line with broader trends. 24 carat gold slipped Rs 2,570 to Rs 1,70,560 per 10 grams from Rs 1,73,130. 22 carat gold dropped Rs 2,350 to Rs 1,56,350 per 10 grams compared with Rs 1,58,700. Gold price in Patna today Patna quoted 24 carat gold at Rs 1,70,560 per 10 grams, down Rs 2,570 from Rs 1,73,130. 22 carat gold was priced at Rs 1,56,350 per 10 grams after a Rs 2,350 fall from Rs 1,58,700. Gold price in Jaipur today In Jaipur, 24 carat gold is retailing at Rs 17,066 per gram, down Rs 257. 22 carat gold is priced at Rs 15,645 per gram after a Rs 235 decline. Gold price in Bhubaneswar today Bhubaneswar markets quoted 24 carat gold at Rs 17,051 per gram, lower by Rs 257. 22 carat gold stood at Rs 15,630 per gram, down Rs 235.



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All about Iran’s late supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s wife and children


Ayatollah Ali KhameneiPhoto: Office of the Iranian Supreme Leader via AP, File

On February 28, 2026, Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, was killed in a joint airstrike by the US and Israel that struck Tehran, as per reports. For hours, there was confusion, speculation and denial in global headlines. Initial claims from former US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu were denied by the Iranian officials. But as the day unfolded, Iranian state media confirmed what many had struggled to believe: The 86-year-old leader, who ruled the Islamic Republic since 1989, was dead.According to official reports, the strike targeted his office compound in Tehran with significant force. Satellite imagery circulating soon after showed extensive structural damage. Beyond the geopolitical shock, however, lies human loss— several members of Khamenei’s family were reportedly killed along with him.Iran has since declared a 40-day national mourning period and announced a seven-day public holiday, as per reports. Across the country, black banners have been raised as millions grapple with the loss of a leader who shaped Iran’s political and religious direction for nearly four decades. Read on to know more about Khamenei’s family here:

A private family in a public storm

Despite leading one of the world’s most scrutinised governments, Khamenei’s personal life remained remarkably shielded from public view.He had six children — four sons (Mostafa, Mojtaba, Masoud, and Meysam) and two daughters (Boshra and Hoda). They are widely accepted as his children, though international media has speculated otherwise for long. Unlike the families of many global leaders, they rarely appeared in public or held visible political roles.The one name that frequently surfaced in political discussions was Mojtaba Khamenei. Often described by analysts as the most influential among the siblings, Mojtaba was long viewed as a potential successor or at least a powerful behind-the-scenes figure. He married the daughter of prominent Iranian politician Gholam-Ali Haddad-Adel, strengthening his ties within Iran’s political elite. Over the years, there were persistent reports of his close relationships with the Revolutionary Guard and senior clerical networks. Some accounts even suggested he had participated in the Iran-Iraq War during his youth.However, Alireza Arafi was appointed to Iran’s leadership council after Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in US-Israel strikes. But, some unconfirmed interim reports suggest that he too may have been killed in fresh strikes against the regime.Masoud Khamenei, another son, also married into a politically connected family — reportedly linked to politician Mohsen Kharazi — but maintained a far lower profile. The remaining children largely stayed away from public life altogether.Beyond his immediate family, Khamenei had three brothers, including Mohammad and Hadi, and four sisters. One sister, Badri, reportedly went into exile during the political upheavals of the 1980s.

Khamenei’s family members killed along with him

State media reports indicate that the airstrike did not only claim Khamenei’s life. A daughter, a grandchild, a daughter-in-law, and a son-in-law were also reportedly killed. While exact names have not yet been officially released, the reports point to multiple generations lost in a single night.Khamenei had seven grandchildren in total. Very little is publicly known about them, though the name Mohammad Bagher Khamenei has occasionally surfaced in official records.While political narratives dominate the headlines in such moments , behind them are families, relationships, and private grief. Whatever one’s stance on Iran’s politics, the loss of several family members in one strike adds a profound layer of sorrow to a volatile situation.

Who was Khamenei’s wife?

Khamenei’s wife, Mansoureh Khojasteh Bagherzadeh, lived largely outside the spotlight. Born in 1947 into a respected merchant family, she married him in 1964. Her father, Mohammad Esmaeil Khojasteh Bagherzadeh, was known as a successful businessman.Throughout decades of political turbulence — including the years before the 1979 revolution when Khamenei was detained under the Shah’s regime — she is said to have quietly supported him. Unlike many political spouses, she did not assume public responsibilities or a formal role. Her life, like much of the family’s, unfolded away from cameras and speeches.

What comes next?

Khamenei’s death marks the end of an era. Since 1989, he stood at the top of Iran’s political and religious hierarchy, shaping domestic policy, foreign relations, and the country’s ideological direction.Now, Iran faces a critical moment. Questions of internal stability and regional consequences are already intensifying. The Middle East was navigating fragile tensions even before this strike. This development adds another unpredictable chapter.History sometimes shifts gradually. At other times, it turns in a single night.What unfolds in the coming days will not only determine Iran’s political future but could also reshape the balance of power across the region — with the world watching closely.



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T20 World Cup 2026: Suryakumar Yadav heartwarmingly bows to Sanju Samson after India reaches the semis; video goes viral



The atmosphere at the Eden Gardens on Sunday was nothing short of electric as India locked horns with the West Indies in the 52nd match of the T20 World Cup.

In Super Eights, Group 1 encounter, the stakes couldn’t have been higher: it was a virtual quarterfinal with a semi-final berth on the line. While the scoreboard will reflect a historic five-wicket victory for the Men in Blue, the world is talking about a singular, soul-stirring moment of sportsmanship. As the winning runs were hit, Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav did the unthinkable, he doffed his cap and bowed deeply to Sanju Samson, a gesture that has since set the internet ablaze.

Suryakumar Yadav emotionally bows to Sanju Samson 

Chasing a mammoth target of 196 on a gripping Kolkata surface, India found themselves in early trouble against a fiery Caribbean pace attack. However, what followed was a masterclass in poise and power. Samson, often the subject of intense selection debates, played the innings of his life. Scoring an unbeaten 97 off just 50 deliveries, the Kerala-born batter dismantled the West Indies bowling lineup with 12 elegant fours and 4 towering sixes.

When Samson struck the final boundary to seal the chase, the dugout erupted. But it was the captain’s reaction that truly humanized the triumph. As a weary Samson walked toward the boundary ropes, Suryakumar met him halfway, bowing low in a tribute to his teammate’s resilience.

I always say, good things happen to good people who wait, who have a lot of patience,” an emotional Suryakumar remarked during the post-match presentation. He emphasized that this wasn’t just about one match, but about the “quiet grind” Samson endured behind the scenes while waiting for his moment on the world stage.

Here’s the video:

Also READ: Sanju Samson reflects on his batting performance that powered India into the T20 World Cup 2026 semifinals

India marches to semi-final after record chase

This victory does more than just provide a viral video; it officially secures India’s spot in the T20 World Cup 2026 semi-finals. By hunting down 196, India recorded their highest-ever successful run-chase in the history of the tournament. The win showcases a middle-order depth that has often been questioned, with Samson finally cementing his legacy as a big-game player. The synergy between the captain’s leadership and Samson’s clinical finishing has transformed India into the team to beat.

The Men in Blue are now scheduled to fly to Mumbai, where they will face a formidable England side in the semi-final this coming Thursday. With the momentum of the ‘Kolkata Heist’ behind them and the viral image of Suryakumar’s bow serving as a testament to their team unity, India look poised to reclaim the global throne. For the fans, however, the result was almost secondary to the sight of a captain honouring a teammate who finally got his ‘fruit at the perfect stage.’

Also READ: Gautam Gambhir makes bold statement after India beat West Indies to reach T20 World Cup 2026 semifinals





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‘I felt helpless’: Rohit Sharma’s honest admission on India vs Pakistan thriller | Cricket News


'I felt helpless': Rohit Sharma's honest admission on India vs Pakistan thriller

NEW DELHI: Former India captain Rohit Sharma looked back at some of the defining moments that have shaped the storied India–Pakistan rivalry in T20 World Cups, naming the 2007 final as his most cherished encounter against the Asian neighbours.Until the recent ICC Men’s T20 World Cup fixtures, Rohit — the ambassador for this edition — had featured in every India–Pakistan clash at the T20 World Cup. From making his debut as a youngster in 2007 to leading India to memorable wins over Pakistan in 2022 and 2024, his journey in this high-voltage rivalry has been significant.

T20 World Cup: Gautam Gambhir on Sanju Samson, Jasprit Bumrah and record chase vs West Indies

“My favourite T20 World Cup match against Pakistan was definitely the final we played, nothing can beat that. We went on to win the World Cup.” Rohit was quoted as saying by the ICC.India and Pakistan faced off twice in the inaugural 2007 edition. Before the summit clash, a group-stage match ended in a tie and was decided by the tournament’s first-ever bowl-out.“In that same year (2007), we also played a league game against Pakistan, which was the only match in the tournament decided by a bowl-out, and we came out on top there as well. So in 2007, both World Cup games were special,” Rohit recalled.Another unforgettable chapter unfolded at the MCG during the 2022 T20 World Cup. After being dismissed early, Rohit watched from the sidelines as India scripted a dramatic comeback victory.“Yeah, I was in the dressing room. Then I came out, but I got nervous and went back inside. When games are this tight, especially when you’re off the field and know you can’t do anything, it just takes that sense of control away from you, and I felt helpless. You actually do feel helpless watching the game unfold when you can’t do anything about it,” said Rohit.Chasing 160, India found themselves in deep trouble at 31/4 before an extraordinary innings from Virat Kohli turned the contest on its head.“Kohli played a blinder there. That was again very, very special to watch because we were in no position to win that game, especially after how we started.“But the way we finished was magnificent. It has to be one of the greatest cricket games we’ve ever played — because of the occasion. It was a World Cup game, an important one for us to win, and to come back from that situation made it even more special,” the 2024 T20 World Cup-winning skipper said.Rohit, who retired from T20 Internationals after playing 160 matches, admitted that nerves never left him throughout his career — and that the feeling kept him motivated.“I’ve played 160 T20 Internationals for India. I don’t remember a single game where I wasn’t nervous. I was nervous for each and every game. That feeling gives me nervousness, and I don’t think that as long as I’m holding this bat, going out there and taking the field, that feeling will ever go away. It stays with me. And that feeling means you still want to go out there, play the game, and give your best,” Rohit concluded.



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Nearly 10m Indians in danger: How a wider Gulf conflict will hit close to home | India News


Nearly 10m Indians in danger: How a wider Gulf conflict will hit close to home

Nearly 10 million Indians living across West Asia could face heightened risk as tensions escalate following the US-Israel military operation against Iran and Tehran’s retaliation.Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday described the situation in West Asia as a “matter of grave concern” and reiterated that India supports dialogue and diplomacy to resolve disputes. The ministry of external affairs (MEA) said it is “deeply concerned” and has urged all sides to exercise restraint, while Indian missions remain in touch with nationals and have issued advisories.

Modi Breaks Silence on Middle East Crisis, Urges Calm and Dialogue Amid Israel‑Iran Tensions

The Gulf hosts one of the largest overseas Indian communities. Around 3.5 million Indians live in the UAE, about 2.7 million in Saudi Arabia, 1 million in Kuwait, nearly 800,000 in Qatar, around 660,000 in Oman and about 350,000 in Bahrain. Smaller communities are also present in Jordan, Iraq and Israel. In the UAE, Indians make up roughly 35% of the population, making it the single largest hub of Indian citizens abroad. The workforce spans construction and maintenance roles as well as professionals in healthcare, finance and IT.

indians in middle east

The military strikes on Saturday also put the spotlight on the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping route for India and other Asian countries, prompting officials here to activate contingency plans to safeguard energy supplies.The region is a major source of remittances to India. In 2023–24, the UAE alone accounted for nearly 19% of India’s total inward remittances, underlining the economic implications of any prolonged instability.

indians in middle east2

External affairs minister S Jaishankar spoke separately with Iranian foreign minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi and Israeli foreign minister Gideon Sa’ar, conveying India’s concern.The Cabinet Committee on Security reviewed the evolving situation and flagged the safety of Indian nationals. Amid airspace closures in Iran, Tehran has allowed stranded foreign students, including Indians, to exit via land borders and reschedule examinations.



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Claude down: Anthropic confirms outage, Read what the company has to say


Claude down: Anthropic confirms outage, Read what the company has to say

Anthropic’s Claude is currently experiencing a global outage, with users reporting error rates across the web, mobile apps and API services. The AI company has confirmed the problem, saying that it is working to fix it. The incident began on March 2, and appears to be a widespread service disruption rather than a localized issue. As per Downdetector, the website that watches disruptions globally, shows an increased number of reports about Claude being inaccessible.According to the official Anthropic status page, the engineering team is currently in “active investigation” mode. At 11:49 UTC, the first “Investigating” notice was issued after a spike in error reports. A follow-up update confirmed that the company has “identified that the Claude API is working as intended. The issues we are seeing are related to Claude.ai and with the login/logout paths.”

What this means for users

Users trying to access the AI are currently facing failed requests, frequent timeouts, and inconsistent responses. If you are currently relying on Claude for coding, writing, or API-integrated workflows, you will likely encounter “Internal Server Errors” or connection hangs.Whan members of the Times of India Tech team checked, they were greeted by “Claude will return soon. Claude is currently experiencing a temporary service disruption. We’re working on it, please check back soon” message.Anthropic has not yet provided an Estimated Time of Arrival (ETA) for a fix.This is a developing story…



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Chandra Grahan 2026: Do’s and don’ts for pregnant women during Lunar Eclipse


Chandra Grahan 2026: Do's and don'ts for pregnant women during Lunar Eclipse

The first Lunar Eclipse of the year is going to occur on March 3, 2026. This will be the rare celestial event and why is it so rare because it will take place on the day of major Hindu festival i.e., on Holi. This is a significant astronomical Phenomenon that occurs when the Earth blocks the Moon’s light from reaching the Sun. The Earth is therefore positioned between the Sun and the other two heavenly bodies in a straight line.

What is Lunar Eclipse?

When the Earth obstructs the Moon’s light from reaching the Sun, Chandra Grahan occurs. This happens when the Earth is at the center of the straight line formed by the Sun, Earth, and Moon. when some of the Sun’s direct light is blocked from reaching the full moon’s surface by the Earth, either entirely or partially.

Chandra Grahan effects on pregnant women

द्रोण बने सेनापति, युधिष्ठिर पर साजिश और कर्ण की वापसी से रणक्षेत्र कांपा | KL Upadhyay

According to traditional Hindu belief, Chandra Grahan is an extremely sensitive time specially for the pregnant women. This event is connected to Rahu and Ketu planet and they are the main cause of the eclipse. Pregnancy phase is super sensitive, sacred and delicate and women should take extra care during this time period. According to the elders, pregnant women should be careful and follow some important guidelines during the eclipse time. While modern science does not suggest any guideline as there is no harmful effects of an eclipse on pregnancy. But every celestial event has a good or bad effect on an individual.

Expected Mother and The Moon

As we all know that Moon is connected with the water, emotions, thoughts, mind, sensitivity, intuition, and mothers are also associated with the Moon so it will definitely have an impact on pregnant mothers because during this time period pregnant women are very sensitive when bad energies can affec them very easily so it is important for them to be careful during this time period. At the time of Lunar Eclipse, the moon is not in its own energy and it is highly affected by Rahu and Ketu planet and these are considered as malefic planets so you can imagine the impact of this on expected mothers. They should be spiritual protected during this time and for that they are advised to follow certain do’s and don’ts. You can scroll down the content and check the important guidelines for pregnant women.

Lunar Eclipse 2026: Do’s and don’ts for pregnant women during Chandra Grahan:

1. Pregnant women are suggested to stay indoor during the eclipse for their own protection. In order to protect their unborn baby’s well being and health, they should stay inside and and take extra precautions during an eclipse. 2. Pregnant women should avoid eating and drinking during the time of Lunar Eclipse. Even after the eclipse, they should not eat the food, which was prepared before the eclipse. 3. Pregnant women must avoid physical work during the eclipse time. 4. Expected mothers should take bath after the eclipse and add few drops of Gangajal in your water then take bath. If you don’t have Gangajal then you can cleanse yourself by adding rock salt in the water. 5. During the time of eclipse, expected mothers should sit at a quiet place or even on bed in sukhasana, keep a coconut filled with water in their lap and spend their time while chanting mantras, reading scriptures and doing meditation. This will not affect you and your baby. 6. Make sure you don’t sleep during the time of Eclipse as it is considered inauspicious. 7. You can chant mantras that can provide protection to your and your unborn child and these mantras can be:

  • Om Namah Shivaye..!!
  • Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaye..!!
  • Om Jayanti Mangala Kali Bhadra Kali Kapalini Durga Kshama Shivadhatri Swaha Swadha Namostute..!!
  • Sarva Mangal Mangalyaeyi Shive Sarvartha Sadhike Sharanyayei Triyambike Gauri Narayani Namostute..!!
  • Om Trayambhakam Yajamahe Sugandhim Pushti Vardhanam Urvarukmiv Bandhanan Mrityor Mukshiya Mamritat..!!

8. Expected mothers can also recite these below mentioned scriptures and books, which will provide them protection from any harmful energy.

  • Hanuman Chalisa.
  • Durga Kavach, Argala and Keelak.
  • Sundar Kand.
  • Ramacharitmanas.
  • Bhagavad Gita
  • Durga Saptashati Path



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T20 World Cup 2026: India won’t ‘mask pressure’ even as Darren Sammy rallies a war cry | Cricket News


Suryakumar Yadav Captain of India and Gautam Gambhir Head Coach of India during an India ICC Men’s T20 World Cup India & Sri Lanka 2026 net session at Eden Gardens on February 28, 2026 in Kolkata, India. (Photo by Pankaj Nangia/Getty Images)

TimesofIndia.com in Kolkata: Fifty matches across India and Sri Lanka are complete, and only one team has remained unbeaten through both the Super 8 and group stages of the T20 World Cup. With six wins from as many games, the Aiden Markram-led South Africa are the only side yet to taste defeat, and Sunday will finalise the semi-final line-up for the games in Kolkata and Mumbai. Two-time champions India and West Indies are vying for that one available slot, and everything will be on the line at the iconic Eden Gardens on Sunday.

All eyes on how India handle pressure and pitch vs West Indies | T20 World Cup 2026

It is a situation India, the pre-tournament runaway favourites, were not expected to be in, but the nature of the beast, the T20 format, is such that even the best are not spared. The unit led by Suryakumar Yadav is no exception. The virtual quarter-final will be the first high-pressure test for the combination of coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Surya. They were tested in the Asia Cup final against Pakistan last year, but the magnitude of a World Cup knockout clash brings a level of pressure that not many can handle.

Net Sessions - ICC Men's T20 World Cup India & Sri Lanka 2026

Gautam Gambhir Head Coach of India and Varun Chakravarthy of India during an India ICC Men’s T20 World Cup India & Sri Lanka 2026 net session at MA Chidambaram Stadium on February 23, 2026 in Chennai, India. (Photo by Pankaj Nangia/Getty Images)

War cries have already sounded from the opposite corner as West Indies coach Darren Sammy said his soldiers are ready for battle. He has happy memories of playing at this venue in the past and carried an air of confidence during the pre-match media interaction.“Of course, every time we come to Eden Gardens, it brings back good memories. Do I tell you my XI? No, I will not. But I can tell you all my soldiers are ready for battle tomorrow when we call upon them. We will have to wait till the toss for the XI,” said Sammy while keeping his Playing XI cards close to his chest.It would have been fitting if Sammy’s soldiers remark had received an apt response from the Indian corner, but that will have to wait as head coach Gautam Gambhir has yet to interact with the media during this multi-nation tournament. Assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate was in the hot seat again, and he emphasised that experienced players must absorb pressure and perform for the side in situations like these.

Zimbabwe v West Indies: ICC Men´s T20 World Cup India & Sri Lanka 2026

Daren Sammy, Coach of West Indies looks on during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup India & Sri Lanka 2026 Super 8 match between Zimbabwe and West Indies at Wankhede Stadium on February 23, 2026 in Mumbai, India. (Photo by Pankaj Nangia/Getty Images)

“South Africa are the only undefeated team in the competition now. A tournament of this magnitude builds in stature and builds to this point where it is a quarter-final and you have to win to stay alive. The important thing is to focus on ourselves and what has got this group to this point, and how well they have done. Now there are only quality players left in the tournament, so it is about big players standing up, experienced players standing up, remaining calm and staying true to the way we have played leading up to this match,” said ten Doeschate.The defending champions carry the burden of expectations from the home crowd, but the management is looking to go towards pressure rather than attempt to mask it. The group’s focus is to embrace the occasion of this must-win fixture rather than avoid it. The P word has been constant in the build-up to this game, but for Team India, P means Privilege, not Pressure.“I do not think you ever want to mask pressure. You want to go towards pressure. That has been the message throughout, not just in the World Cup but also in the bilateral series. All our preparation towards this has been about going towards pressure when it comes. More than masking it, you want to reframe it. We are continually telling the guys what a privilege it is to play for your country and what a privilege it is to walk out at Eden Gardens in a match to stay in the tournament,” added ten Doeschate.

England & India Net Sessions

India coach Ryan ten Doeschate during a nets session

Apart from the happy memories from a decade ago, the West Indies have enjoyed plenty of success this year, winning both their games in Kolkata against Scotland and Italy. They too were unbeaten in the tournament before South Africa stopped the juggernaut in Ahmedabad. However, that game, which had India glued to the action, showed that the West Indies unit will continue to throw their strongest punches even when facing a count on the mat.They looked down and out after a terrible start, but the rearguard action from Jason Holder and Romario Shepherd kept them alive till the halfway stage. South Africa did not break a sweat while chasing down the total, but even in defeat, the Shai Hope-led unit showcased its character and why it remains a force in the format. Sammy cited their 2016 campaign as an example and urged them to leave South Africa in Ahmedabad.“Leave South Africa in Ahmedabad, just like in 2016. I remember Afghanistan beat us and we just said, bin it. There are still positives we could have taken from the game. Not often do you see a team at 83 for 7 go on to score 170. I think we sent a strong message about how deep our batting is. But yes, we left that game in Ahmedabad and our focus has been solely on what we have to do tomorrow against a strong Indian team, and that is where our focus is right now,” said Sammy.

Zimbabwe v West Indies: ICC Men´s T20 World Cup India & Sri Lanka 2026

Jason Holder of West Indies celebrates the wicket of Graeme Cremer of Zimbabwe during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup India & Sri Lanka 2026 Super 8 match between Zimbabwe and West Indies at Wankhede Stadium on February 23, 2026 in Mumbai, India. (Photo by Pankaj Nangia/Getty Images)

The West Indies bat deep and bat big. They have firepower from the openers through the No. 9 position and are witnessing a fine year from Shimron Hetmyer’s willow. A threatening line-up in a format that comes naturally to them could give any opposition sleepless nights, but India seemed relaxed on the eve of the match. Coach ten Doeschate asserted that they are ready to fight fire with fire and are not bothered about whether the format comes naturally to the opposition.“I do not think that bothers us at all. The challenge is that they are a very good T20 side. They possess power as good as any of the best teams in the world. What you know about the West Indies when they come to a T20 competition is that they give absolutely everything. This is their big moment in the calendar. It is a challenge we are relishing. We are going to fight fire with fire tomorrow, and I am expecting a really good game out there,” said ten Doeschate.

Poll

Who will win the virtual quarter-final at Eden Gardens — India or West Indies?

India had an optional session, but even the 12 who attended were buzzing with activity on the practice pitches near the ropes, while others prepared for range hitting on the square. Coach Gambhir chatted with different players as most went through their usual routine, applying the finishing touches. Big games differentiate the good from the great, and Sunday is an opportunity for 22 players from both sides to move toward a legacy they will long be remembered for.As ten Doeschate said, it is a clean slate, but anything less than a W would be considered an anomaly for this Indian side.



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“Pehli fursat me nikal…”: Fans troll Mohammad Amir as India storm into T20 World Cup 2026 semi-final



The 52nd match of the T20 World Cup 2026 at Eden Gardens was nothing short of a cinematic masterpiece. On Sunday, the hallowed turf of Kolkata played host to a Super Eights clash between India and the West Indies. In a winner-takes-all scenario, India successfully chased down a daunting 196 to secure their spot in the semi-finals, silencing skeptics and sending a raucous 65,000-strong crowd into a frenzy.

The hero of the night was Sanju Samson, whose unbeaten 97 off 50 balls broke Virat Kohli’s long-standing record for the highest individual score by an Indian in a T20 World Cup chase.

Mohammad Amir’s prediction for India during the Super 8 stage

While the Men in Blue were busy dismantling the West Indies bowling attack, social media was ablaze with the ghost of a failed prophecy. Former Pakistan pacer Mohammad Amir had become the center of a digital storm following his repeated claims that India would not reach the semi-finals. During the Super Eight stage, appearing on the show “Haarna Mana Hai,” Amir had boldly asserted that South Africa and the West Indies were the favourites to progress from Group 1.

His most viral moment came when he dismissed India’s chances with a smug, “Pakistan qualify kare na kare, India naaaa” (Whether Pakistan qualifies or not, India won’t). Amir even doubled down on this stance after India’s earlier loss to South Africa in Ahmedabad, where he was mockingly labeled an ‘astrologer’ by the show’s host. He pointed toward India’s fielding lapses and a perceived over-reliance on Jasprit Bumrah as signs of an impending exit. However, the resilient performance at Eden Gardens effectively turned his ‘astrology’ into a meme.

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Indian fans roast Mohammad Amir as Men in Blue march into T20 World Cup 2026 semi-final

As soon as India reached the target of 199/5 with four balls to spare, the phrase “Pehli fursat me nikal” (Leave at the first opportunity) began trending globally. Indian fans, never ones to forget a slight, used the famous meme to escort Amir out of the tournament’s conversation. The irony was palpable: Amir had predicted the West Indies would eliminate India, but it was India who ended the Windies’ campaign on the same ground where the Caribbean side had famously won the title in 2016.

Even in the aftermath, a defiant Amir tried to pivot, calling Shimron Hetmyer’s dismissal ‘controversial’ and claiming India was still “not playing good cricket” despite the win. But for the Indian faithful, the results spoke louder than the rhetoric. With a semi-final against England at the Wankhede Stadium now confirmed for March 5, the ‘Men in Blue’ have moved forward, leaving Amir’s failed predictions behind in the dust of Kolkata.

Here’s how fans reacted:

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