Pakistan has told the International Cricket Council it is willing to end its boycott of the India match at the T20 World Cup 2026. However, the Pakistan Cricket Board has placed three demands before the ICC. These include higher financial compensation for Bangladesh, a participation fee despite Bangladesh’s exit from the tournament, and hosting rights for a future ICC event. The demands were raised during a meeting in Lahore. While some PCB officials favour playing India on February 15, chairman Mohsin Naqvi is yet to agree. A final decision may follow talks with Pakistan’s prime minister. (PC: AFP)

Bad Bunny made history by becoming the first artist to perform a Super Bowl half-time show fully in Spanish. His 14-minute set celebrated Puerto Rico and Latin culture. The performance featured guest appearances by Lady Gaga and Ricky Martin, and included messages of love, unity and pride. Bad Bunny ended the show with “God bless America” and named countries across the Americas. He did not make direct political statements. Despite this, US President Donald Trump criticised the show on social media, calling it “terrible” and saying people could not understand it. The performance drew wide attention for its cultural impact. (PC: Getty Images, Reuters)

Russian President Vladimir Putin is named 1,005 times in documents linked to late financier Jeffrey Epstein, released by the US Justice Department. The files show Epstein repeatedly tried to arrange a meeting with Putin through Russian diplomats and European officials. These efforts took place during a sensitive period in US-Russia relations after the 2016 US presidential election. However, the documents provide no evidence that the two ever met. The Kremlin has rejected claims that Epstein worked with Russian intelligence agencies. Poland has announced a probe into possible Russian links mentioned in the newly released files.

The International Cricket Council has rejected key demands made by the Pakistan Cricket Board over the India match at the T20 World Cup, reports said. The PCB asked for the return of India-Pakistan bilateral series, higher revenue, and assurances against past controversies. It also sought financial support for Bangladesh after their exit from the tournament. The ICC said it had nothing extra to offer Bangladesh beyond its regular share of earnings. ICC officials urged Pakistan to end the boycott, warning it could harm the sport. A final decision is expected after approval from the Pakistan government. (PC: AFP)

An unauthorised balloon entered restricted airspace at Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru on Monday, causing a security scare. The balloon was spotted drifting over the airport premises. CISF personnel quickly intercepted and seized it. Officials said the balloon belonged to a private construction company based in Hoskote. It was reportedly launched from outside the airport but went off course after operators lost control. Aviation rules strictly ban drones and balloons near airports due to safety risks. A complaint has been filed at the airport police station. Devanahalli police have registered a case and are investigating possible negligence behind the incident. (PC: News18)

India’s interim trade deal with the United States is likely to take effect next week, Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal said. The deal will start after the White House signs an executive order. Under the agreement, US tariffs on Indian goods will drop from 50% to 18%. Goyal said this will improve access for Indian products in the US market. Nearly half of India’s exports may face zero duty. US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer is expected to visit New Delhi in March to sign the final legal document. The deal aims to reduce trade barriers and support exporters.

US technology companies are using H-1B visas to hire artificial intelligence experts because there are not enough skilled workers inside the country. A Forbes report says firms like Amazon, Google, Meta, Microsoft and Apple depend on foreign engineers and researchers for AI work. Many of these workers are international students trained in US universities. In 2025, over 80% of new H-1B jobs at major tech firms were linked to AI roles. However, tighter visa rules and higher fees may slow hiring and push companies to move AI jobs outside the US.

Indian Railways plans to launch another Vande Bharat Express train for Karnataka. The new semi-high-speed train will run on the Bengaluru–Mangaluru route. It will be operated by the South Western Railway zone. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said the service will start after electrification and safety checks are completed. The train is expected to reduce travel time between the two cities. Officials said it will improve regional connectivity and boost the state’s economy. Karnataka currently has 22 Vande Bharat train services. The Centre has allocated ₹7,748 crore for railway projects in the state. (PC: Ministry of Railways/File)

A luxury Lamborghini crash in central Delhi left six people injured on Sunday afternoon. The car was driven by Shivam Mishra, son of a billionaire tobacco businessman from Kanpur. Eyewitnesses said the car suddenly lost control near the Ring Wala area. It hit an auto-rickshaw, a motorcycle, and then climbed onto the pavement. The family claimed Shivam suffered a seizure while driving. Police said they are checking the medical claim. No FIR has been filed yet. Locals stopped the car and alleged that private bouncers tried to take the driver away. An investigation is ongoing. (PC: HT)

Pakistan may agree to play India in the T20 World Cup 2026 if the ICC accepts three conditions set by the Pakistan Cricket Board, according to a report. PCB officials discussed the issue with ICC delegates in Lahore, along with Bangladesh board chief Aminul Islam. The report says PCB wants a higher share of ICC revenue, restoration of bilateral cricket with India, and strict enforcement of a handshake protocol between teams. Pakistan had earlier announced it would not play the February 15 match. ICC officials are trying to find a solution. Bangladesh is also part of the talks and may seek compensation as discussions continue. (PC: India Today)