Shardul Thakur and MS Dhoni (X)

Mumbai: Soon after leading his team to an innings and 222-run annihilation of Pondicherry at the Wankhede Stadium on Wednesday, Shardul Thakur posed for selfies and pictures with fans who had gathered near the Mumbai dressing-room staircase. Even though he is not part of the Indian team currently, ‘Lord’ Thakur has reason to be pleased with how his life is going at the moment.Asked to take up the Mumbai captaincy after ex-India captain Ajinkya Rahane quit the post, the 34-year-old has led Mumbai, who are now topping their group with 24 points, to three outright wins in their first five matches of the 2025-26 edition of the Ranji Trophy.After enduring a 2024-25 season during which they looked in danger of exiting at the league stage of the Ranji Trophy, suffering a stunning five-wicket defeat to Jammu and Kashmir at the MCA ground in BKC, and eventually losing by 80 runs to Vidarbha in the semifinals, the domestic giants are looking at their best again this season.Clearly, the Mumbai team seems to be enjoying their cricket under Thakur’s captaincy. While bidding for an India comeback, the veteran allrounder appears to be relishing his role as the new leader of a team that always faces the pressure of expectations.Asked how exactly the Mumbai captaincy came about for him at the start of this season, Thakur said, “They asked me whether I’m ready to lead the team or not. I immediately said ‘yes, of course I’m ready to lead the team.’Elaborating on his captaincy mantra, which seems to be working well for the Mumbai team, Thakur said, “I have my own style, and I keep telling these boys when we are on the field that we shouldn’t be afraid of making tactical changes in our games. If you feel something is necessary or we could apply these tactics, then you should go ahead with it, and you should keep bringing fresh ideas to the table. So, that’s my motto. And of course, don’t go overboard with things. We also need to know our limits as players, and within the limit, whatever your game allows you, you should be able to do that. That’s my simple message for everyone.”Having played under illustrious captains like MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma for India and Chennai Super Kings, Thakur has imbibed the art of leading a team from all three modern-day India greats, though he rates Dhoni as the “No. 1 captain” in his book. “For me, Mahi bhai is always No. 1 (captain). But yes, I take a leaf out of all three’s captaincy style. I’ve watched them closely… how they lead the team and handle things. It’s important for me to keep taking positives from their captaincy,” Thakur said.The homecoming to MI, at lastThakur is also pleased with his city’s IPL team, the Mumbai Indians, having traded him from Lucknow Super Giants for IPL 2026. “Everyone likes to play at their home venue. This has been pending for a long time. But when the time comes… that’s when it becomes possible. So the time has finally come,” he said, smiling.

A sustained move below ₹1,22,200 may trigger extended selling pressure in the upcoming session. (AI image)

Gold price prediction today: Gold prices are showing an intraday weakening bias, and traders should look to sell on rise, says Jateen Trivedi, VP Research Analyst – Commodity and Currency, LKP Securities. Here is his strategy for gold investors:Gold futures on MCX traded around ₹1,22,624, extending their consolidation as the market struggled to sustain momentum above short-term resistance levels. The recent price action suggests a shift in sentiment toward cautious selling on rallies, particularly as technical indicators begin to show fatigue near the higher band of the recent range.

Gold Technical Setup:

Moving Averages (EMA 8 & EMA 21): The short-term EMA 8 has slipped below the EMA 21, forming a bearish crossover. This indicates weakening momentum, with resistance now placed in the ₹1,22,700–₹1,22,850 zone. Sustaining below this range could invite further downside pressure.Bollinger Bands: Gold prices have retreated from the upper Bollinger band and are now testing the mid-band. This structure signals a cooling phase in the up move, suggesting that rallies are likely to face selling interest near the resistance area. Pivot Points (Previous Day):

Gold Intraday View:

Conclusion: Gold’s intraday technical setup points to a weakening bias as short-term averages turn negative and momentum oscillators lean lower. Traders are advised to adopt a sell-on-rise strategy near ₹1,22,700–₹1,22,850, keeping a stop-loss at ₹1,23,200 and aiming for downside targets of ₹1,22,100 and ₹1,21,900. A sustained move below ₹1,22,200 may trigger extended selling pressure in the upcoming session. (Disclaimer: Recommendations and views on the stock market, other asset classes or personal finance management tips given by experts are their own. These opinions do not represent the views of The Times of India)

MUMBAI: Rise from your seats when legislators or MPs visit your office, listen to the them attentively, and use polite language during phone calls to them — these are some of the new set of guidelines that the Maharashtra government issued for its officials on Thursday.A Government Resolution (GR) issued by state Chief Secretary Rajesh Kumar to this effect said, giving due respect to elected representatives is an important part of making administration more reliable and accountable.It also warned of taking action against those officials who do not follow these instructions.This new GR brings together several older circulars and updates them with clearer, firmer instructions.In the recent past, some elected representatives, including those from the ruling parties, had expressed displeasure over officials not giving time to meet them and address their concerns or issues.In the preface of this GR, the government says it considers good governance, transparency and efficiency as top priorities.As per the new guidelines, the officials must rise from their seats whenever a legislator or an MP enters or leaves their office, and to treat them with full courtesy.The officials must listen carefully to MLAs and MPs during their visits and provide assistance according to rules. They must also use polite language on phone calls, the order said.Departments have been instructed to maintain a separate register for letters received from elected representatives, and to reply to them within two months. If a reply cannot be given in time, the official must escalate the matter and inform the MLA or MP concerned, the GR said.It further instructed that government and semi-government bodies must invite local legislators to important district-level programmes, such as inaugurations or ‘bhoomi pujans’. Their names must be printed correctly in invitations, and their seating arrangements must be done as per the official order of precedence.Every first and third Thursday, departments must set aside two hours for scheduled meetings with citizens and elected representatives. However, MLAs and MPs should be allowed to meet officials at any time if the work is urgent, the order said.When the Legislature or Parliament is in session, district-level authorities should avoid organising major events unless necessary, it noted.The GR also reminded the officials to strictly follow legislative privilege rules, and warned that violations would attract disciplinary action.Regarding information requests, the GR said that MLAs and MPs must be given information related to public welfare, except where restricted under the Right to Information (RTI) Act. Such information should be provided free of cost. Important updates should be regularly published on official government websites.Giving due respect to elected representatives, responding to their concerns on time and ensuring smooth communication are important parts of making administration more reliable and accountable, it said.The GR also directed government training institutions to include modules on courteous treatment to elected representatives.Any official who ignores these instructions will face action under service rules, including provisions related to delays in duties, the order issued by the chief secretary said.

MUMBAI: A 19-year-old first-year BSc student from Kalyan died by suicide Tuesday after he was harassed and assaulted in a local train by fellow commuters for speaking in Hindi and not Marathi, alleged his father.Arnav Khaire, a student of Kelkar College in Mulund, was travelling in a second-class compartment as his first-class season pass had expired. His father, Jitendra Khaire, has submitted a written complaint to Kolsewadi police in Kalyan (E), demanding action against those who allegedly harassed his son and “pushed him” to take the extreme stepBased on his complaint, police have started investigations. The incident took place Tuesday, when Arnav, as was his routine, was travelling by an Ambernath-Kalyan local to attend classes.

Marathi row left Arnav in deep distress: Father

In Jitendra Khaire’s complaint — based on his phone conversation with his son Arnav — he said, “On Tuesday, since Arnav’s first-class pass for the suburban train had expired, he purchased a general-class ticket and boarded a crowded general compartment at Kalyan railway station to go to college.”Due to the crowd, he accidentally brushed against a man and said in Hindi, ‘Please move ahead a little.’ The complainant alleged that some men nearby took objection to Arnav speaking in Hindi. “They asked why he wasn’t speaking Marathi, and whether he was ashamed of his own language.” Arnav told his father, ‘I told them I am Marathi, but they still argued and beat me.”Arnav also told his father the attackers tore his mask & that he was extremely scared and shaken by the incident. After the assault, he got off at Thane station, took another train, and reached Mulund.His father said the boy was in deep psychological distress after the incident. At college, after completing a practical exam, Arnav called his father saying, “Papa, I am not feeling well…” In the afternoon, after reaching home, he called his father again and informed him about the entire incident.Khaire told him he would file a police complaint. However, on Tuesday evening, when he reached home, the door was locked. With the help of his neighbours, he forced the door open and found his son had died by suicide. An ambulance was called immediately, but doctors at Rukminibai Hospital declared Arnav dead at 9.05pm.Khaire told TOI “The fear and mental stress caused by this incident pushed him towards suicide. I want a full investigation and justice for my son.”Kalyanji Ghete, assistant commissioner of police, Kalyan Division said, “We have formed a team who is probing the case”.

After weeks of speculation surrounding his off-screen chemistry with Saiyaara co-star Aneet Padda, Ahaan Panday has now offered clarity on where they truly stand. In a new interview, the actor addressed the buzz head-on—ending the dating rumours while acknowledging the deep connection the two share.

Ahaan clarifies speculation: “Aneet is my best friend”

Ahaan revealed that despite fans shipping them passionately, their relationship has always been rooted in trust and understanding rather than romance.“Aneet is my best friend. The whole internet thinks we’re together, but we’re not. Chemistry isn’t always romantic; it’s about comfort, safety, and being seen. We’ve both made each other feel that. Even though she’s not my girlfriend, I’ll never have a bond like I have with Aneet,” he told GQ.

The emotional foundation behind their bond

The actor also shared that their connection began long before the film became a hit. Ahaan recalled a moment that brought them closer creatively and emotionally—a shared love for a Paulo Coelho quote.“Before Saiyaara, we both loved this Paulo Coelho quote: ‘It’s the possibility of a dream coming true that makes life interesting.’ We dreamed this together, and it came true. What we’ve shared is so special.”

Saiyaara’s blockbuster status adds fuel to the buzz

The intense curiosity around their relationship isn’t without reason. Saiyaara has turned into a phenomenon, crossing Rs 500 crore worldwide and surprising even the most optimistic box-office predictions. The film’s music, emotional beats and fresh casting have earned it widespread praise, with fans particularly enamoured by Ahaan and Aneet’s onscreen spark. Their pairing is now being celebrated as one of the most promising new combinations in Bollywood.

Both actors gear up for major future projects

With their debut blockbuster behind them, Ahaan and Aneet are moving forward with equally ambitious lineups.Ahaan will next feature opposite Sharvari in a YRF project helmed by Abbas Ali Zafar, with Aaishvary Thackeray playing the antagonist.Aneet, meanwhile, is stepping into Maddock Films’ horror-comedy universe as Shakti Shalini, marking yet another major milestone in her rising career.

Ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 mini-auction, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) made a bold move, orchestrating one of the most extensive squad overhauls in IPL history. The franchise released the one of highest number of players among all ten teams, including some big names like Venkatesh Iyer and Andre Russell.

IPL 2026: KKR’s major squad overhaul and  Venkatesh Iyer’s release

Iyer’s release is particularly noteworthy, as he had been bought for a hefty INR 23.75 crore during the previous mega auction and was appointed as the vice-captain. Despite his release, Iyer, who has accumulated 1,468 runs in 62 IPL matches, has made it clear that his bond with KKR remains strong, and he would love to return to the franchise.

This mass release by KKR is part of a larger strategy to clear up their purse for the mini-auction, which includes letting go of players such as Russell (INR 12 crore), Quinton de Kock (INR 3.6 crore), Moeen Ali (INR 2 crore), Anrich Nortje (INR 6.5 crore), Spencer Johnson (INR 2.8 crore) and Rahmanullah Gurbaz (INR 2 crore). Despite these high-profile releases, KKR now has the largest available purse heading into the auction, giving them ample opportunity to reshape the squad.

Also READ: Kolkata Knight Riders: Full List of KKR Retentions, Releases, Remaining Slots & Purse | IPL 2026 Auction

IPL 2026: Venkatesh Iyer reveals his aspirations and plans for IPL 2026 mini auction

Despite being one of the most expensive players released by KKR, Venkatesh Iyer remains emotionally tied to the franchise. Reflecting on his time with KKR during an interview with CricTracker, Iyer shared his heartfelt sentiment with CricTracker, emphasizing his desire to continue his journey with the team: “If I have to ask my heart, I would still want to play for KKR,” he confessed. He highlighted the personal and sentimental value of the franchise, especially since he won a championship with KKR. “I want to continue the legacy and bring more glory to KKR, as they’ve shown so much faith in me,” Iyer added.

However, despite his loyalty to KKR, Iyer made it clear that his primary goal is to continue playing in the IPL, no matter the team. He expressed, “For players like us, it’s the opportunity to play in the IPL. It doesn’t matter which team I play for. I will put my best foot forward.” He also emphasized that if he were to play for a different team, he would still bring his A-game, not just in terms of his batting and bowling, but also in leadership and providing guidance to the captain. “If not KKR, then anywhere else, I will look to give my best,” Iyer concluded, showcasing his professional approach and unwavering commitment to the game.

Also READ: KKR’s most expensive players at each IPL Auction: From Gautam Gambhir to Mitchell Starc

In the potential absence of Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant will step up to lead the side. (PTI Photo/Shahbaz Khan)

Rishabh Pant offered a brief look into India’s preparations for the must-win Guwahati Test, sharing a set of photos with teammates and captioning them, “In good company.” The post came at a time when the team is under scrutiny after going 1–0 down in the two-match series against South Africa.

Pant appeared at ease in the images, a contrast to the pressure India face heading into the second Test. With Shubman Gill still a question mark for the 2nd Test due to a neck spasm, Pant may lead India for the first time in Test cricket. His debut as captain will make him only the second wicketkeeper to lead India in the format, after MS Dhoni.

Rishabh Pant’s post on X

Notably, in the pictures, Shubman Gill was absent, as the vice captain and teammates Jasprit Bumrah, Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja, Akash Deep & Kuldeep Yadav posed for pictures. India will also be adapting to modified playing hours in Guwahati. Owing to early sunsets in the region, the match will begin 30 minutes ahead of the usual start time. The opening session will be followed by a shorter tea break, with lunch moved to early afternoon to maximise daylight. His comments and energy from behind the stumps have stood out, adding layers to an otherwise difficult match for India, who were bowled out for 93 in the fourth innings at Eden Gardens.

As the team regroups, Pant’s social-media post has been read as a sign of calm within the camp. The squad arrived in Guwahati knowing that only a win will help them salvage a draw in this series, and Pant’s leadership, if asked to do so, will be under close watch as he steps into a role previously held by MS Dhoni. The second Test at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium begins on Saturday, with India seeking to avoid back-to-back home series defeats and reshape the narrative after a challenging start.

NEW DELHI: Ten years after the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015 came into force, a new study by the India Justice Report has exposed how the country’s juvenile justice system is crumbling under the same ills that plague adult courts – massive delays, crippling vacancies and shocking opacity. Children in conflict with the law, the very group the Act swore to protect in their “best interest”, are paying the heaviest price.As of Oct 31, 2023, more than 55,000 children were waiting for their cases to be decided, with 55% of the total cases pending before Juvenile Justice Boards (JJBs) across 18 states and two Union Territories. Out of 1,00,904 cases that came up before 362 JJBs in the year ending Oct 2023 (including 50,627 carried over from previous years), only 45,097 – a mere 45% – were disposed of. In Odisha the pendency rate touched a staggering 83%, while Karnataka managed to keep it at 35%. Nationally, the picture is grim: nearly one in every two cases simply rolls over to the next year.

The report, titled “Juvenile Justice and Children in Conflict with the Law: A Study of Capacity at the Frontlines”, is based on parliamentary answers, a year-long RTI inquiry and data from states (Nov 2022 to Oct 2023) . It reveals that one in every four JJBs – 24% or 111 out of 470 boards that responded – is functioning without the mandatory full bench of a principal magistrate and two social worker members. Only three states and Union Territories – Odisha, Sikkim and Jammu & Kashmir – have 100% fully constituted benches. With an average of 154 pending cases per board, the incomplete benches mean slower hearings, less child-sensitive decisions and prolonged institutionalisation of children.Perhaps the most alarming finding is that only 11 districts across the entire country meet the basic minimum standards required to deliver justice in a child’s best interest. Out of 292 districts that provided usable data on seven critical parameters – presence of a JJB, child welfare institution, special juvenile police unit, legal aid clinic, probation officer, staff strength and manageable pendency – just 11 cleared the bar. Eight of these are in Mizoram.Residential infrastructure for children in conflict with the law is equally dismal. Fourteen states, including large ones like Maharashtra, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal, Punjab, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, have not established even a single “Place of Safety” for 16 -18-year-olds accused of heinous offences – a mandatory requirement under the Act. Facilities for girls are particularly scarce: only 40 homes nationwide can accommodate girls in conflict with the law, including those that house both genders.The study warns that the absence of proper facilities forces children to be shifted far from their families, making access to guardians and legal representation difficult and sometimes leading to unsafe mixing of age groups and offence categories – the very evils the 2015 Act was meant to end.Ten years on, the report concludes, India still cannot produce routine, public, time-series data to prove that its juvenile justice system is working optimally for the child. Instead, thousands of children remain trapped in limbo, bearing the brunt of a system that looks disturbingly similar to the broken adult criminal justice machinery it was supposed to be different from.