India’s pace attack will be weak when they face Sri Lanka in a two-match Test series, starting on 15 August. Key fast bowlers Jasprit Bumrah and Harshit Rana are injured and won’t play. Mohammed Shami, who has had injury issues, hasn’t played since June 2023.

In Bumrah’s absence, the focus will be on Mohammed Siraj, an experienced pacer with 140 Test wickets. Prasidh Krishna, Gurnoor Brar, and Auqib Nabi are less experienced, with Brar and Nabi yet to play Tests.

India’s bowling coach Morne Morkel isn’t worried about the missing players. He believes the young bowlers have talent and can adapt to conditions. Siraj and Prasidh have faced tough bowling challenges in India, while Gurnoor showed success in lower teams.

Morkel says the heat and humidity will be the biggest challenge, making the ball softer after 20-35 overs. The team needs to quickly adjust strategies, like using the short ball effectively.

India has strong spin options, including Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Manav Suthar, and Saransh Jain. Morkel praised Kuldeep’s recent performance in a practice match and his success with Yorkshire in England.

Jadeja’s experience and class are crucial, while Kuldeep offers an attacking style. Morkel doesn’t see playing three spinners as a concern, saying it depends on how Shubman Gill uses the bowlers. He believes India’s spin attack is strong and can take 20 wickets.

Traditionally, playing three spinners has been effective at the venue. Morkel sees it as an attacking option, using seam and spin to create pressure. The team feels prepared for all challenges in the Test match.

Mirza Fakhrul, a prominent leader within the BNP, has been actively involved in politics for several years. Known for his strong leadership and political acumen, he is seen as a unifying figure within the party. His nomination reflects the party’s strategy to field a candidate who can appeal to a broad range of voters.

Fakhrul’s selection comes at a critical time for Bangladesh, with elections expected in the near future. The BNP aims to leverage his experience and reputation to challenge the current government and regain political influence. Many within the party believe that Fakhrul’s leadership qualities will help them secure votes across different regions of the country.

As the election campaign gains momentum, Fakhrul is expected to highlight key issues such as economic reforms, security, and good governance. His ability to connect with voters will be crucial in determining the BNP’s chances of success.

The nomination has been widely discussed in political circles, with both supporters and critics weighing in on its implications. Regardless of the outcome, this decision marks an important step for the BNP as it prepares to compete in what promises to be a highly competitive election.

The leaders of China and Russia expressed their confidence in India’s ability to guide BRICS during its current presidency. They emphasized the importance of maintaining cooperation among member countries to address global challenges such as economic growth, sustainable development, and geopolitical stability.

India has been actively promoting several initiatives under its BRICS presidency, including discussions on reforming international financial institutions and enhancing trade ties among member nations. China and Russia’s support underscores their commitment to strengthening BRICS as a platform for fostering dialogue and collaboration in various fields.

Looking ahead, India aims to further strengthen BRICS by increasing its influence globally and pushing for reforms in global governance systems. With the backing of key members like China and Russia, India is expected to make significant strides in achieving these objectives during its tenure.

The Kuril Islands are controlled by Russia, but Japan claims four of the southern islands. Japan calls these islands the “Northern Territories,” while Russia considers them part of its territory.

During his visit, Putin toured several important locations on Iturup Island. He visited a fish-processing plant, a hospital and a school. He also spoke with local residents and met Valery Limarenko, the governor of Russia’s Sakhalin Region.

Putin’s visit is significant because it sends a strong message that Russia considers the islands an important part of its territory. The Russian government has continued to develop the islands and strengthen its presence there.

Japan strongly objects to Russian control of the four southern islands. The dispute dates back to the final days of World War II, when Soviet forces took control of the islands after Japan’s defeat.

The territorial disagreement has continued for decades. It has also prevented Russia and Japan from signing a formal peace treaty to officially end the state of war left over from World War II.

Both countries have made efforts to find a solution through diplomatic talks. However, those discussions have failed to produce a final agreement on the islands.

In recent years, Russia has increased its military presence in the Kuril Islands. Moscow has strengthened military facilities and deployed equipment in the region. The increased Russian activity has caused further concern in Japan.

Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi criticized Putin’s visit to Iturup, which Japan calls Etorofu. Japanese officials have repeatedly stated that the four southern islands are part of Japan and that the country will continue to defend its territorial position.

This is not the first time Japan has protested a visit by a senior Russian official to the disputed islands. In 2021, Japan also objected when then-Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin visited Iturup.

The territorial dispute has also affected relations between the two countries in other areas. Russia and Japan have faced difficulties in improving their political relationship, partly because of disagreements over the islands.

For Russia, maintaining control over the Kuril Islands is important for both political and strategic reasons. The islands are located in an important part of the Pacific region and have military and economic value.

For Japan, the issue remains an important matter of national sovereignty and historical importance. Japanese governments have continued to raise the territorial claim during discussions with Russia.

Putin’s latest visit shows that the dispute remains unresolved. Despite years of negotiations and diplomatic efforts, neither side has been willing to give up its position on the islands.

The latest development is likely to add further tension to Russia-Japan relations. It also shows how a territorial dispute that began after World War II continues to influence relations between the two countries many decades later.

During his trip, Putin inspected a fish processing plant, a hospital, and a school on Iturup Island. He also met local residents and the governor of Russia’s Sakhalin region.

The Kuril Islands have been a point of contention between Russia and Japan since the Soviet Union took control of four southern islands in 1945 near the end of World War II. Despite decades of diplomatic efforts, no resolution has been reached, and no formal peace treaty exists between the two countries.

Japan protested similarly when Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin visited Iturup in 2021. Putin’s recent visit to the region included stops in Siberia and the Far East, where he attended naval exercises with Russia’s Pacific Fleet.

Putin emphasized that while the Kuril Islands’ status is recognized internationally, Russia remains open to discussing a peace treaty with Japan. He acknowledged past cooperation with Japanese leaders but noted changes in Japan’s stance since imposing sanctions on Russia over its actions in Ukraine.

Despite ongoing tensions, Putin reaffirmed Russia’s willingness to work with neighboring countries, including Japan, for mutual benefit.

The sweltering conditions have caused disruptions across the nation. Rail tracks are expanding due to the heat, causing delays and cancellations in train services. Roads have also softened in places, leading to potential hazards for drivers. Hospitals are reporting a rise in heat-related illnesses, with vulnerable groups like the elderly and young children being particularly at risk.

Local authorities have been urged to take extra precautions, such as setting up cooling centers for those without access to air conditioning. Schools and businesses are closing early or adjusting schedules to avoid the midday heat. Despite these measures, many residents are struggling to cope with the intense conditions.

The government has issued warnings about water shortages in some areas, as demand for drinking water and garden sprinklers spikes. People are being advised to stay hydrated, limit physical activity during peak hours, and check on neighbors who may be isolated or at risk.

While officials work to manage the situation, they acknowledge that the country’s infrastructure is not fully prepared for such frequent and severe heat waves. Experts warn that this trend is likely to continue as global temperatures rise due to climate change.

For now, residents are urged to stay informed, take necessary precautions, and hope for cooler weather in the coming weeks.

In reply, Bangladesh ended day one at 96/1, having lost Shadman Islam. Mominul Haque was still batting on 35, and Tanzid Hasan Tamim was not out on 32.

Hasan Mahmud, born on October 12, 1999, in Laxmipur, Bangladesh, began his cricket journey by representing his country at the Under-19 World Cup in 2018. He made his first-class debut in 2017 and joined franchise cricket with Dhaka Platoon in 2019.

Mahmud made his international debut against Zimbabwe in March 2020. Over time, he became a key player for Bangladesh, claiming his first five-wicket haul in an ODI match against Ireland in 2023. In Test cricket, he achieved career-best figures of 5/43 against Pakistan and 5/83 against India, becoming the first Bangladeshi bowler to take five wickets in India.

In 2026, Mahmud became the first Bangladesh international to play for an English county side when he joined Kent. He made his debut against Lancashire and took four wickets in the first innings and six in the second, helping Kent win by 140 runs. He is set to return for more matches later that year.

The event has been organized by Karnataka Development Minister Krishna Byre Gowda. The aim is to give citizens an opportunity to visit the famous government building and enjoy a full day of cultural activities, food, music and entertainment.

Vidhana Soudha is one of Bengaluru’s most important landmarks. The grand building is known for its impressive architecture and its role in the administration of Karnataka. Opening it to the public for Independence Day will give residents and visitors a chance to experience the building in a different way.

Freedom Habba is planned as a celebration of Karnataka’s culture and the diversity of Bengaluru. Visitors will be able to explore different stalls displaying the state’s history, traditions, art and handicrafts.

Food will also be an important part of the event. People will have the opportunity to taste different types of ethnic and traditional food from Bengaluru and other parts of Karnataka. The variety of food is expected to reflect the city’s diverse population.

The event will also feature art and cultural performances. Popular artists from Karnataka are expected to perform for visitors, giving people an opportunity to enjoy traditional and modern forms of entertainment.

Bengaluru is known as a cosmopolitan city where people from different states, languages and cultural backgrounds live and work together. Freedom Habba is intended to bring these different communities together in one place.

The celebration is not only about entertainment but also about creating a sense of unity. People from different backgrounds will be able to participate in the Independence Day celebrations and share their connection with Bengaluru.

The event is expected to attract families, young people, senior citizens and visitors interested in Karnataka’s culture. With food, music, art and history all included, organizers hope there will be something for everyone.

The opening of Vidhana Soudha to ordinary citizens also gives people a chance to see one of Karnataka’s most famous landmarks. The building usually has an important role in government activities, so allowing the public to enter for a cultural celebration makes the occasion special.

Independence Day is a time when people across India celebrate the country’s freedom and diversity. Freedom Habba will add a local cultural touch to the national celebration by highlighting Karnataka’s traditions and Bengaluru’s multicultural character.

The organizers hope the event will encourage people to celebrate their differences while remembering the shared values that connect them. The celebration is expected to create a lively atmosphere across Vidhana Soudha throughout the day.

Freedom Habba therefore aims to make Independence Day more than just a formal occasion. It is designed as a public celebration where people can enjoy culture, food, music and art while coming together as one community.

Shubman Gill leads India, while Dhananjaya de Silva captains Sri Lanka. Key players include KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant for India, and Kamindu Mendis for Sri Lanka.

Injuries impact both teams: Jasprit Bumrah is out for India, and Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis are missing for Sri Lanka. Shubman Gill returned after an injury to score 44 runs in a practice match.

Galle’s pitch favors spin, giving Sri Lanka an advantage with their multiple spin options. India has not played in Sri Lanka since their 2017 series win. Important players for India include Yashasvi Jaiswal and Ravindra Jadeja.

India has historically performed well against Sri Lanka, winning three of the last five matches. They defeated Sri Lanka 3-0 in 2017, with Shikhar Dhawan scoring 190 runs.

Fans can watch the series on Sony Sports Network TV or via the Sony LIV app for live streaming.

During the inspection, officials reportedly found several serious hygiene problems. In one of the canteens, cockroaches were seen crawling on food plates. The discovery raised concerns about the cleanliness of the kitchen and the safety of food being served to employees and other visitors.

Officials also found other problems, including poor cleaning practices and improper storage of food items. Such conditions can increase the risk of food contamination and may lead to health problems if they are not corrected quickly.

Vikas Soudha is one of the important government buildings in Karnataka. It houses offices used by ministers, senior government officials and IAS officers. The canteens inside the building provide meals and refreshments to government employees and other people working in the complex.

The discovery of poor hygiene conditions in such an important government building has attracted attention. Government canteens are expected to maintain high standards because they serve food to a large number of people every day.

Food safety officials have emphasized the importance of keeping kitchens, dining areas, cooking equipment and storage spaces clean. Food items should also be stored properly to prevent insects, bacteria and other forms of contamination.

The inspection is part of wider efforts by Karnataka health authorities to check food establishments and improve food safety standards. Officials are expected to take necessary action against facilities that fail to follow hygiene rules.

The incident also highlights the importance of regular inspections. Government-run facilities need to follow the same food safety standards expected from private restaurants, hotels and other food businesses.

Authorities are now focusing on improving cleanliness and ensuring that the problems identified during the inspection are corrected. Further inspections may also be carried out to check whether the required improvements have been made.

The incident serves as a reminder that food safety is important in every workplace, including government offices. Maintaining clean kitchens, safe food storage and proper hygiene practices can help protect employees and visitors from food-related illnesses.