The India national cricket team continued their explosive batting display against the New Zealand national cricket team in the T20 final, racing to 203/2 after 15 overs. Sanju Samson led the onslaught with a sensational unbeaten 88, smashing three consecutive sixes off Rachin Ravindra and dominating the New Zealand bowling attack. Samson also registered his third consecutive fifty in knockout matches, underlining his red-hot form. Ishan Kishan supported him with aggressive hitting, including a towering straight six. Earlier, the pair combined for a massive 24-run over that left the Kiwis struggling for answers. With the run rate soaring, India looked set for a daunting total well above 250. (PC: BCCI)

Iran has reaffirmed that its military cooperation with Russia will continue despite the ongoing conflict with the United States and Israel. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said the partnership with Moscow is part of a long-standing strategic relationship and not a new development. He also defended Iran’s strikes on US targets in the Middle East, describing them as acts of self-defence against a war “imposed” by Washington and Tel Aviv. Meanwhile, the United States Central Command accused Tehran of endangering civilians by launching missile and drone attacks from densely populated areas, warning that such locations could become legitimate military targets under international law.

The India national cricket team lost their first wicket after a dominant start in the final against the New Zealand national cricket team, with Rachin Ravindra dismissing Abhishek Sharma for a quick 52 off 20 balls. The wicket ended a blazing 98-run opening partnership between Sharma and Sanju Samson that had put New Zealand under heavy pressure in the powerplay. Ravindra struck in the 7th over with a caught-behind dismissal, providing a crucial breakthrough for the Kiwis. After the wicket, Ishan Kishan came in at number three as India crossed the 100-run mark in just over seven overs. Despite the setback, India remained in a commanding position with a strong run rate. (PC: BCCI)

A political controversy has erupted in West Bengal after President Droupadi Murmu expressed disappointment over the State government’s handling of protocol during the International Santal Conference in Darjeeling district. The event’s venue was shifted from Bidhannagar under Phansidewa block to Gossainpur near Bagdogra, prompting concerns from the President’s office. Prime Minister Narendra Modi termed the development “shameful and unprecedented”, accusing the ruling All India Trinamool Congress government of crossing limits. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee rejected the criticism, saying the President should not “engage in politics as per advice of the BJP”. The disagreement has triggered a sharp political exchange between the Centre and the State government. (PC: X)

India opener Abhishek Sharma smashed a rapid 18-ball fifty in the T20 World Cup final against New Zealand.   Sharma returned to form on the biggest stage. He attacked the bowling from the start. Boundaries came quickly in the Powerplay.   He shared a strong opening stand with Sanju Samson. The pair gave India a flying start. India scored 92 runs in the Powerplay. The run rate crossed 15 runs an over.   Sharma reached his half-century with a powerful six. The shot came off a low full toss.   After completing the fifty, Sharma gestured towards the dugout as teammates applauded the knock. (PC: BCCI)

The United States is considering a limited ground operation in Iran to secure its stockpile of highly enriched uranium amid the ongoing war with Israel, according to media reports. Officials cited by NBC News and Axios said discussions within the administration of Donald Trump include deploying a small number of special forces for narrowly defined missions rather than launching a full-scale invasion. One proposal involves troops entering heavily fortified underground facilities to remove or neutralise about 450 kilograms of uranium enriched to 60 percent. US officials are also considering bringing in nuclear experts, possibly from the International Atomic Energy Agency, to dilute the material on site.

The India national cricket team made a blazing start in the T20 World Cup final against the New Zealand national cricket team, racing to 50 without loss in the first four overs. Opener Abhishek Sharma led the charge with aggressive strokeplay, smashing a six over long-off and multiple boundaries off Lockie Ferguson and Jacob Duffy. At the other end, Sanju Samson also found the boundary, including a top-edged six and a late four to keep the scoreboard moving. India had earlier started cautiously but quickly accelerated, collecting 15 runs in Duffy’s over and punishing loose deliveries. Despite a sharp fielding effort from Daryl Mitchell, New Zealand struggled to contain the early onslaught. 

US President Donald Trump is considering a limited ground mission in Iran to secure its stockpile of highly enriched uranium, according to reports.   NBC News said discussions in Washington include sending a small number of US troops for specific tasks. The plan would not involve a large invasion.   Axios reported that the US and Israel have also discussed deploying special forces later in the war to secure the uranium stored in underground sites.   Secretary of State Marco Rubio hinted at such a move. “People are going to have to go and get it,” he said.   Trump said ground troops would be used only “for a very good reason.” (PC: India Today)

Iran’s powerful Assembly of Experts has chosen a new Supreme Leader following the killing of Ali Khamenei in joint US–Israeli strikes, though the name has not yet been officially announced. Several clerics confirmed that the vote had taken place and said the announcement would come soon. Attention has increasingly focused on Mojtaba Hosseini Khamenei, the late leader’s son, who has long operated behind the scenes with strong ties to the powerful Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. Clerics hinted at his candidacy, noting that even US President Donald Trump had criticised him as an “unacceptable” choice. Analysts say selecting Mojtaba could signal continuity within Iran’s security-driven power structure amid the ongoing war with Israel. (PC: WANA/Reuters)

Ahead of the final between the India national cricket team and the New Zealand national cricket team, players from both sides expressed confidence as the countdown to the first ball began. New Zealand batter Daryl Mitchell said he was excited to play the final after spending months in India and stressed that the team’s focus is on enjoying the contest and making the most of the 240 balls. He added that several players in the lineup can step up if needed. Meanwhile, India’s Tilak Varma said the team is accustomed to high-pressure situations after navigating recent knockout-style matches. Before the game, legends Rohit Sharma and MS Dhoni brought out the trophy during the national anthem ceremony. (PC: X/@BCCI)