Tensions flared at Jawaharlal Nehru University on Thursday after a student protest escalated into clashes with police, leading to the detention of 51 students and injuries on both sides, as reported by news agency PTI.The unrest began when the Jawaharlal Nehru University Students’ Union (JNUSU) organised a “Long March” from the campus to the Ministry of Education, calling for the implementation of University Grants Commission (UGC) regulations, the proposed Rohith Act, and the resignation of Vice-Chancellor Santishree D Pandit. Delhi Police responded by setting up multiple barricades and locking the main gate, deploying heavy security to prevent students from marching out.According to police, the situation turned violent when protesters allegedly pelted sticks and shoes and physically assaulted officers. An FIR has been registered against the students. Police said around 25 personnel were injured, including ACP Ved Prakash, ACP Sanghamitra, SHO Atul Tyagi and SHO Ajai Yadav. Some officers were even “bitten” during the altercation, officials claimed.Among those detained were JNUSU president Aditi Mishra and former president Nitish Kumar. Police said the students were stopped as they attempted to proceed towards the Ministry without permission.The students, however, alleged excessive force. In a statement, JNUSU claimed that “more than 50 students” were detained and taken to “undisclosed locations”. The union further alleged that injured students were denied medical assistance. It also claimed that a portrait of B R Ambedkar was damaged during the police action. Videos circulating online appeared to show a photograph of Ambedkar being snatched amid the chaos.Following the detentions, JNUSU called for a “complete lockdown” of the campus and announced a second march from the JNU Main Gate to Vasant Kunj Police Station. “We call upon all the students of JNU to intensify the struggle,” the union said, urging students to gather in large numbers.The university administration condemned the protest, accusing JNUSU members of “vandalism and violence against campus property”. In a post on X, the university said the students were demanding UGC regulations that are currently under a Supreme Court stay, adding that the Vice-Chancellor and Registrar have no authority over those rules.

Horoscope Today: Read daily horoscope predictions for February 27, 2026. Know all about the astrological events and influences that will be affecting each of the 12 zodiac signs. Our astrologer has analyzed the movements of the planets and the alignment of the stars to bring you the most accurate and up-to-date horoscope predictions for the day ahead. Get ready to discover what the stars have in store for you today.Aries:Today, you may be busy with family get-togethers and social events. You may behave politely with people around you, which could increase your prestige among them. You may spend money on artefacts or household items that may enhance your social status. You are likely to hear good news from one of your relatives.

Taurus:Today, you may feel happy and blessed by the Moon. You may feel healthy, and this positivity may reflect in your work. You are likely to perform well in all areas of life, improving your prestige. Your concentration may be strong today, helping you make important business decisions related to growth.Gemini:Today, your energy levels may slow down. An old health issue may reappear, which could upset you. You are advised to avoid adventure trips and rash driving. Try to avoid legal disputes; it would be better to settle matters outside the court. Avoid arguments on trivial topics. You may also plan an overseas trip.Cancer:Today, you may start your day happily. At work, you may take quick decisions that could improve your management skills and bring benefits in the near future. You may discover a new source of income, boosting your savings. With the support of your business partner, you may invest capital in your business. Your bonding with your spouse may improve, bringing harmony to domestic life.Leo:Today, you may be busy at work, which could make you tired and prevent you from giving proper time to family gatherings. You may also build overseas connections. Be cautious regarding investments. Those in jobs may receive promotions.Virgo:Today, the situation is under control. Destiny may favor you in terms of business gains. You may receive rewards for your hard work. It is a good time to restart postponed projects. You may plan a peaceful religious journey. You may also donate to a religious place or charity.Libra:Today, the Moon is not in a favorable position, and you may face health issues. You may experience losses in business or investments. It is advisable not to invest in business or risky ventures for now. Gains may turn into losses if you are not careful. Avoid investing in unnecessary items and stay away from controversies, as they may negatively affect you.Scorpio:Today, you are blessed by the Moon. You may hear good news related to your profession. Domestic life may be joyful. Avoid arguments over trivial matters, as overexcitement may test your patience. You may take important decisions regarding real estate investments. Students may remain focused on their studies.Sagittarius:Today, you may be blessed by the Moon. Love may be in the air in your personal life. Singles may find a suitable match. You may perform better professionally. Friends and subordinates may support you. Investments in gems and jewelry may bring positive returns in the future. Be cautious regarding elders’ health.Capricorn:Today, you may feel happy and energetic, which could enhance your prestige among people around you. You may spend time studying intellectual subjects. You may also plan for higher studies to advance your career. Students may hear good news regarding competitive examinations.Aquarius:Today may begin on a dull note, but by late evening, you may overcome negativity. New people may connect with you on the work front. With their help, you may revamp your business plans. It is advisable to read documents carefully before signing them.Pisces:Today, with blessings, you may overcome indecisiveness. Your child’s health may improve. Colleagues may support you at work, leading to project success. You may receive incentives along with your salary. Those associated with dairy, water projects, grains, homemaking, art, and culture may perform well.

Axar Patel celebrates with teammates after taking the wicket of Zimbabwe’s Tadiwanashe Marumani during ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 cricket match between India and Zimbabwe, at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, in Chennai. (PTI Photo)

TimesofIndia.com in Chennai: It took them five matches but India’s batting finally clicked and registered the second-highest total in T20 World Cup history. The Men in Blue fired on all cylinders to end their innings at 256/4 and later completed the formalities by restricting Zimbabwe to 184/6 in their must-win Super Eight clash of the multi-nation tournament in Chennai. From the strong powerplay to intent in the middle overs and a blockbuster finish—back-to-back sixes by Hardik Pandya—India checked the boxes they were yearning to in the fixtures preceding Thursday’s clash. Restoring the right-left combination at the top of the order worked wonders for the defending champions.

Sanju Samson’s return to the Playing XI forced the opposition to keep the off-spin—their nemesis in the last few games—away. When it was finally introduced, runs were already on the board and Abhishek Sharma was back to six-hitting ways.Chepauk was in for a treat as the Indian batters feasted on one of the tournament’s most batting-friendly surface, aided by some ordinary captaincy and bowling. The dot-ball percentage – just 26 — was significantly down in comparison to previous games and all of them operated at a strike-rate of over 150 with three of them hovering in the 200s. There were plenty of sixes, but what was heartening to see was the intent to sustain momentum throughout the innings.Samson was out after a breezy cameo but Ishan Kishan didn’t allow the innings to drop a gear. Suryakumar Yadav toyed with the bowlers and field positions. Hardik Pandya took his initial time but hit top gear when it mattered and the biggest positive was Tilak Varma’s return to fluent form. Batting at No.6, the left-hander, who had been facing criticism for lacking intent in the middle-overs came like a breath of fresh air by taking off from the word go. The left-hander perfected the finishing act, smashing a 16-ball 44 that included 3 boundaries and 4 sixes.India benefitted from their brightest opening stand in the tournament but unlike their best powerplay outing (86/1 vs Namibia), there was no middle-overs choke. Even when off-spinners Sikandar Raza and Brian Bennett bowled in tandem after the field restrictions were lifted, Ishan Kishan and Abhishek Sharma kept the scoring rate healthy and showed no desperation to slog their way out of trouble. The shot selection was good, the scoring areas were intelligent, and India negated the off-spin threat quite convincingly. Raza did pick the wicket of Kishan to break an ominous-looking 72-run stand, but five collective overs of off-spin went for 45, allowing the defending champions to seize control of the middle-overs.Abhishek is always the crucial piece in India’s batting puzzle and the Super 8 clash was another reminder of why life is comfortable when he gets going. It took the youngster a while to score his maiden T20I World Cup fifty but India wouldn’t be complaining as his return to form augurs well for the side in the business, and must-win end of the tournament. There is no room for another slip-up if they are to become the only side to first defend the title, and then win an edition at home. The afternoon assist from South Africa has put the Men in Blue nicely in a good scoring position and the finishing act is now upto them. The batters roared and the bowling unit’s collective might was again on exhibition in front of a capacity crowd. Arshdeep Singh and Hardik kept it tight with the new ball and when Jasprit Bumrah was introduced in the fifth over of the chase, Zimbabwe looked edgy about making a move. With little assistance for the bowlers, India bowled in tight channels. Vice-captain Axar Patel, returning to the XI after two games, drew first blood in his first over by dismissing Tadiwanashe Marumani. However, Zimbabwe threw some punches during a period of play with Brian Bennett.The right-handed opener enjoyed attacking the bowlers on and used the slog-sweep effectively to clear the ropes multiple times. Shivam Dube leaked runs – going for 46 runs in two overs – but the mountain was too high to climb, even after the giant strides in the middle-overs. India still had two overs from Arshdeep, one from Bumrah, and two from Hardik to seal the deal, and the experienced trio followed the expected script.The unchaseable 113 runs were needed off the last 24 deliveries and Arshdeep’s double-wicket over brought the hosts closer to sealing the formalities. Bennett put on a real show with the bat to test the bowlers but even his blinder could only push the total to 184/6. With this emphatic win, India not only kept their campaign alive but also regained their mojo before another must-win clash against the West Indies at Eden Gardens.Brief scores:India 256/4 in 20 overs (Abhishek Sharma 55, Hardik Pandya 50 not out; Sikandar Raza 1-29, Tinotenda Maposa 1-40)Zimbabwe 164/6 in 20 overs (Brian Bennett 99; Arshdeep Singh 3-24)

This sea creature survived for over 500 years beneath the Atlantic Ocean (Image Source – Museum Wales)

Cold Atlantic waters do not often produce headlines, yet one clam drawn from the seabed near Iceland shifted scientific records. In 2006, researchers collected a specimen later named Ming. At first, growth rings on its shell suggested an age of about 405 years. That alone would have placed it among the oldest animals ever recorded. A later reassessment in 2013, using more precise counting methods, extended the estimate to 507 years. The species, known as the ocean quahog, now holds the Guinness World Record for the oldest non-colonial animal. Unlike corals, which are colonies of many polyps living together, this clam lived as a single organism. Its lifespan has since shaped research into ageing, climate history and deep-sea survival.

Ming the clam became the oldest recorded animal at 507 years

The clam belonged to the species Arctica islandica, commonly called the ocean quahog. Scientists determine age by counting annual growth bands in the shell, similar in principle to tree rings. When Ming was first examined, researchers miscounted some of the early bands. Improved techniques later corrected the figure to 507 years.The shell itself remains part of the scientific record. It offers a physical timeline of changing ocean conditions. Each layer reflects shifts in temperature and chemistry over centuries. That slow accumulation of detail explains why the species draws attention beyond its age alone.Among animals that live as individuals, the ocean quahog stands at the top. The Greenland shark is often cited as the next longest lived vertebrate, with estimates of around 400 years.

Ocean quahogs live buried deep below the surface

An ocean quahog does not look remarkable at first glance. It is a rounded clam with two hinged shell halves known as valves. When alive, the outer surface is covered by a dark layer called the periostracum, which gives it a black or mahogany appearance.Older specimens can measure more than 13 centimetres across and over 5 centimetres thick. Most people never see them alive. They bury themselves in sediment between 400 and 500 metres underwater in the North Atlantic. Empty shells sometimes wash ashore, but the living animal remains out of sight.Life at that depth moves slowly. Water temperatures stay low. Light barely reaches the seabed. Growth is steady rather than rapid.

Filter feeding supports a lifespan measured in centuries

Ocean quahogs feed by filtering water. They draw seawater in through an inhalant siphon. Tiny hair like structures called cilia create a current that carries water across the gills. There, mucus traps algae and organic particles. Food moves towards the mouth while filtered water exits through a separate opening.The process repeats almost constantly. It is simple and energy efficient. Environmental changes such as shifts in water temperature or currents may interrupt the routine, but otherwise the clam continues quietly.That steady rhythm, repeated over centuries, is part of what allows the ocean quahog to endure. Its record lifespan remains a reminder that longevity in the natural world often depends on patience rather than speed.

PM Modi’s push to transform India into a major global manufacturing hub faces a challenge from the US and China. (AI image)

PM Narendra Modi’s push for ‘Make in India’ is facing resistance and criticism from US and China – the two largest world economies. India is currently the world’s fifth largest economy, on its way to become the third largest in the coming years.Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s push to transform India into a major global manufacturing hub faces a challenge from the US and China – both the countries have argued that India’s subsidy policies violate international trade rules.

US, China Challenge ‘Make in India’ push

Central to the disputes is India’s production-linked incentive programme, launched by the Modi government in 2020 with the aim of strengthening domestic manufacturing. Covering 14 industries ranging from electronics and pharmaceuticals to solar equipment and medical devices, the scheme involves a total allocation of ₹1.91 trillion ($21 billion).According to a Bloomberg report, trading partners maintain that these incentives give domestic companies an edge over foreign competitors. In the solar industry, firms such as Waaree Energies Ltd., Adani Enterprises Ltd., and Reliance Industries Ltd. have gained from government backing through production-linked incentives as well as a range of non-tariff measures.

India’s Solar Production Jumps After Government Support

On Wednesday, the United States announced preliminary tariffs of 126% on solar equipment imported from India after concluding that the industry had received unfair government support. Analysts believe these steep duties will likely make it difficult for Indian solar manufacturers to compete in the US market.The development followed a decision by the World Trade Organization’s dispute settlement body to form a panel to review China’s complaint that India’s incentive schemes for the automotive and renewable energy sectors favor domestically produced goods over imports, placing Chinese exporters at a disadvantage. The panel was constituted after initial consultations between the two sides – the first stage of the WTO dispute mechanism – did not resolve Beijing’s objections to India’s industry-specific subsidies.Officials told Bloomberg that the government intends to firmly defend its incentive schemes and maintains that they are consistent with WTO regulations.These initiatives play a key role in India’s strategy to increase manufacturing’s contribution to gross domestic product to roughly 25%, but rising objections from major trading partners could present challenges for policymakers. At present, the manufacturing sector accounts for about 17% of the economy.“Without schemes like PLI, revival of manufacturing looks difficult,” said Biswajit Dhar, a New Delhi-based independent trade economist and former professor at Jawaharlal Nehru University. At the same time, India needs to explore alternative ways to support industries, such as investing more in technology and innovation, he added.The criticism comes at a time when India is attempting to stabilize its relationships with both the United States and China. New Delhi and Washington have only recently reached an agreement that brought an end to months of trade tensions, during which India faced some of the steepest US tariffs imposed on Asian economies. At the same time, India has been working to improve ties with Beijing.

US, China Themselves Under Scrutiny

The United States and China have themselves come under examination for their respective subsidy policies. In 2024, Beijing challenged aspects of the US Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, arguing that certain subsidies were tied to the use of domestically produced inputs or unfairly disadvantaged Chinese goods. Separately, European nations have accused China of relying on large-scale subsidies to accelerate the growth of its electric vehicle and solar manufacturing industries.

Capital markets regulator Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) on Thursday revised the valuation methodology for physical gold and silver held by mutual fund schemes, mandating the use of polled spot prices published by recognised stock exchanges for determining their value.The new framework will come into effect from April 1, 2026.“It has been decided that with effect from April 01, 2026… the mutual funds shall value physical gold and silver by using the polled spot prices published by the recognised stock exchanges which are used for settlement of physically delivered gold and silver derivatives contracts,” Sebi said in its circular.

Shift from LBMA benchmark to domestic spot prices

Currently, gold and silver exchange traded funds (ETFs) value their holdings based on the AM fixing prices of the London Bullion Market Association (LBMA). These prices are then adjusted for currency conversion, transportation costs, customs duty, taxes and other levies to arrive at domestic valuations.Under the revised norms, the spot prices used for settlement of physically delivered bullion derivatives contracts on Indian stock exchanges will form the basis for pricing such holdings, replacing the earlier benchmark-linked approach, reported news agency PTI.The move, aligned with the Sebi (Mutual Funds) Regulations, 2026, aims to ensure that valuations better reflect domestic market conditions while promoting uniformity and transparency across mutual fund schemes.The Association of Mutual Funds in India (Amfi), in consultation with Sebi, will prescribe a uniform policy for implementation of the revised valuation methodology.

Part of broader mutual fund reforms

The revision comes alongside Sebi’s broader overhaul of the mutual fund framework.In a separate circular issued on Thursday, the regulator introduced a revamped classification structure for mutual fund schemes, dividing them into five broad categories — equity, debt, hybrid, life cycle and other schemes, along with Fund of Funds (FoFs) and passive schemes such as Index Funds or ETFs.“For easy identification by investors, in order to bring uniformity in names of schemes for a particular category across mutual funds and to ensure that schemes remain ‘true to-label’, the scheme name shall be the same as the scheme category,” Sebi said.It also directed that “words/ phrases that highlight/ emphasize only the return aspect of the scheme shall not be used in the name of the scheme.”The regulator has discontinued the Solution Oriented Schemes category with immediate effect. Existing schemes under this category will stop accepting fresh subscriptions and merge with similar schemes, subject to prior Sebi approval.Additionally, Sebi introduced Life Cycle Funds as open-ended schemes with pre-determined maturity and a glide path strategy for goal-based investing. These funds will progressively reduce equity exposure and increase debt allocation as they approach maturity.Sebi has also tightened portfolio overlap disclosures, mandating mutual funds to publish category-wise overlap levels every month on their websites, calculated at the ISIN level.All existing schemes will have to comply with the revised framework within six months of the issuance of the circular.With the new valuation norms for gold and silver and the wider restructuring of scheme categories, Sebi aims to enhance transparency, standardisation and investor protection in the mutual fund industry.

Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna have officially tied the knot in Udaipur, confirming their union as ‘The Wedding of VIROSH’. The couple, who met on the sets of ‘Geetha Govindam’, celebrated their marriage with Telugu Hindu and Kodava rituals.

Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna are finally married. The couple who has been dating for many years now, never confessed to being in a relationship publicly. They also remained silent on the wedding rumour until Sunday where they confirmed and called it ‘The wedding of Virosh’. The couple tied the knot at Mementos by ITC Hotels in Udaipur. They tied the knot with Telugu Hindu rituals, representing Vijay’s tradition, in the morning on February 26. They have now dropped first pictures as husband and wife. While Rashmika opted for a traditional orange and gold saree look, Vijay could be seen in a white dhoti and a ‘dushala’ matching with Rashmika’s saree which had zardosi work on it. Both the bride and groom, opted for traditonal gold jewellery to complet their look. Vijay Deverakonda wrote, “One day, I missed her. Missed her in a way that made me feel like my day would’ve been better if she were around. Like my meals would’ve felt more wholesome if she were sitting across from me.Like my workouts would’ve been more fun and less of a punishment if she were doing them with me.Like I needed her – just to feel that sense of home and calm, no matter where I was. So,I made my best friend… my wife. 😀❤️26.02.2026 Rashmika penned an emotional note which read, “Hi my loves, Introducing to you now “My Husband”! 💘 Mr. Vijay Deverakonda!! ❤️The man who taught me what true love feels like, the man who showed me what being in peace feels like! 🤍The man who told me everyday that dreaming big was absolutely ok and constantly telling me I was capable of achieving something much more than what I could possibly think I ever could! 🤍The man who’s never stopped me from dancing like no one’s watching..the man who showed me travelling with friends is the best thing ever, and trust me I could write a book on this man! 🤍I’ve become the woman I have always dreamt of being, because you made her who she is today!I’ve truly been blessed! 🤍 Vijju I am always short of words to describe the feelings I have for you!! I’ve always told you that!!But you know suddenly all of my achievements, struggles, happiness, sadness, joy, life – everything just makes a lot more sense now – it is because I have you – witnessing it all.. being the biggest part of it all! ❤️I am so so so so soooo excited to becoming your wife! to be your wife! To be called your wife!! 💃🏻💃🏻❤️ it’s full party time now!!💃🏻❤️Let’s have the bestestest life ever together! I love you! ❤️” Their first pictures prove that their wedding was rooted deeply in culture and that’s what even their outfits depict. As soon as they dropped these pictures, fans couldn’t hold their excitement and dropped congratulatory messages. A user said, “No nazar for mr and mrs Devarakonda ❤️❤️❤️❤️”Varun Dhawan, Janhvi Kapoor and others like this post. Rashmika and Vijay first crossed paths on the sets of Geetha Govindam, later reuniting for Dear Comrade. The two are now gearing up for their third Telugu collaboration, Ranabaali, which is scheduled to hit theatres on September 11.

Domestic benchmark equity indices ended nearly flat on Thursday amid profit booking in select heavyweights and mixed global cues.At closing, the 30-share BSE Sensex slipped 27 points, or 0.03 per cent, to settle at 82,248.61, while the Nifty 50 edged up 14 points, or 0.06 per cent, to close at 25,496.55.The Nifty 50 had opened at 25,560.40, up 77.90 points or 0.31 per cent, while the Sensex began the session at 82,534.15, gaining 258.08 points or 0.31 per cent.

Nifty50 top gainers

Nifty50 top losers

Sensex top losers

Sensex top gainers

Among sectoral indices, PSU Banks, auto, pharma, oil & gas, telecom and metal stocks were among the gainers.According to news agency ANI, Vinod Nair, head of research at Geojit Investments Limited, said, “The domestic market surrendered its early gains amid mixed global cues and increased caution ahead of the US-Iran nuclear talks, as well as key data releases including US initial jobless claims and India’s GDP print, which triggered profit booking.”He added, “As the session progressed, investors rotated towards non-cyclical pockets such as pharma and healthcare, while defence stocks gained on optimism over potential India-Israel tech-transfer initiatives.”“Sentiment recovered in late trade following reports of meetings between Indian and US commerce officials, which rekindled hopes of progress in bilateral trade negotiations and made the market close flat,” Nair said.Sudeep Shah, head – technical and derivatives research at SBI Securities, said, “the benchmark index Nifty traded within a narrow intraday band of 172 points, reflecting a day dominated by subdued volatility and cautious sentiment. For most of the session, the index hovered close to the day’s low, indicating persistent pressure from the bears.”“However, during the final hour of trade, Nifty experienced a modest recovery, staging a mild pullback from lower levels. By the closing bell, the index ended virtually unchanged, forming a small-bodied candle with a pronounced lower shadow, suggesting buying interest emerging near support zones,” Shah said, as quoted by ANI.He further noted, “In today’s session, within the Nifty constituents, Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles and Eicher Motors emerged as the top performers, showcasing relative strength compared to the broader market. On the flip side, Trent and Eternal were the major laggards, dragging down the index. Sector-wise, Nifty Healthcare and Nifty Pharma led the gains, supported by renewed buying interest in defensives. Meanwhile, Nifty Media and Nifty FMCG underperformed, closing as the weakest sectoral indices for the day.”On the currency front, Jateen Trivedi, VP research analyst – commodity and currency at LKP, said, “Rupee traded with minor gains near 90.88 as market participants remained cautious amid uncertainty around US Iran talks. Any signs of rise in the conflict between Iran USA can result panic.”“Rupee remains range-bound with support seen near 91.25 and resistance around 90.50, awaiting clearer direction from global trade developments, Geo-polititcal issues and dollar index movement,” he added.

NEW DELHI: Pakistan’s narrow loss to England in the Super Eights of the T20 World Cup triggered an ugly backlash online, with several fans targeting captain Salman Ali Agha’s family with abusive and threatening messages.Salman’s wife, Sabe, responded on Instagram, saying that directing threats at her or their child would not help Pakistan win the tournament. Despite the team’s two-wicket defeat in Pallekele on Tuesday, many supporters also condemned the toxic reactions, urging restraint and accountability on social media.

Former Pakistan captain Moin Khan said such behaviour was unacceptable and called for action from the cybercrime authorities. He recalled facing similar hostility after Pakistan’s defeat in the 1999 World Cup final.Emotional reactions from sections of Pakistan’s fan base during ICC events are not new. Following the team’s quarterfinal exit against India in the 1996 World Cup, angry protesters vandalised the homes of certain players, including then-captain Wasim Akram.On the field, England became the first team to confirm a semi-final berth at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 with their win over Pakistan. The defeat, coupled with Pakistan’s earlier washout against New Zealand, has left their qualification hopes hanging in the balance. With England already through, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and New Zealand are fighting for the remaining semi-final spot.England had begun their Super 8 stage with a 51-run victory over Sri Lanka in Kandy before edging out Pakistan at the same venue. Captain Harry Brook led from the front, smashing his maiden T20I century and becoming the first skipper to score a hundred in T20 World Cup history.

Chasing 166, England were in early trouble at 58/4 in the eighth over. Brook, promoted to No. 3, rebuilt the innings with a 45-run stand alongside Sam Curran, followed by a crucial 52-run partnership with Will Jacks that shifted the momentum. He reached his hundred in style — clearing the ropes over cover before punching a boundary through mid-off.Although Brook fell with England on 155/6 and victory within sight, a brief wobble saw three wickets tumble for just six runs, adding late tension. Needing three runs in the final over with two wickets in hand, Jofra Archer sealed the contest with a boundary through mid-wicket.

T20 World Cup: What Pakistan need to qualify for semis

Pakistan’s semi-final fate will largely be determined by the result of Friday’s England vs New Zealand clash in Colombo. A New Zealand victory would take them to five points and seal qualification, making Pakistan’s final Super Eights game against Sri Lanka inconsequential.However, if England prevail, they will top the group with six points. That would leave New Zealand on three, giving Pakistan a lifeline — provided they defeat Sri Lanka in Kandy. In that case, both Pakistan and New Zealand would finish on three points, pushing the race into a net run rate shootout. The numbers, though, suggest Pakistan face a steep challenge.To illustrate, if England beat New Zealand by 50 runs, Pakistan — assuming a first-innings total of around 170 — would need to win by roughly 20 runs to move ahead on net run rate. The equation becomes even tighter if Pakistan are chasing. They would likely have to overhaul the target in about 17.5 overs to leapfrog New Zealand. Anything slower could see the Blackcaps retain the advantage.England’s strong run in the Super Eights has streamlined the table, and with Sri Lanka out of contention, the final semi-final spot is set for a dramatic conclusion. For Pakistan, it is no longer just about winning — it is about winning big, and relying on England to tilt the scales in their favour.