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Possible Bowler Options For RCB If Yash Dayal Misses IPL 2026

With IPL 2026 just months away, reigning champions RCB could be facing a cause for concern. Their key bowler Yash Dayal has recently seen his bail plea rejected in a case involving allegations of sexual assault of a minor. While the facts of the matter are yet to be legally established, the development has created uncertainty around his availability. Dayal was retained by the Bengaluru franchise ahead of the season, but it remains unclear whether he will be able to take part in the tournament next year as the legal process continues. Finding a suitable replacement for a key left-arm pacer is never an easy task, especially for a franchise like Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), where the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium’s short boundaries demand high-quality death bowling. Following the news regarding Yash Dayal, RCB management and scouting team will likely be scouring the market for a bowler who can replicate his ability to swing the ball early and maintain composure under pressure in the final overs. Here is an analysis of the potential replacement options RCB might consider for the IPL 2026 season: 1. T. Natarajan: The Yorker Specialist If RCB is looking for a specialist who can handle the "death overs" at the Chinnaswamy, T. Natarajan is the premier candidate. Known for his ability to nail yorkers at will, the left-armer from Tamil Nadu provides a different dimension to any pace attack. While Dayal offered more swing with the new ball, Natarajan offers a higher degree of reliability when the game is on the line. His experience in high-pressure IPL situations makes him a plug-and-play option for Faf du Plessis. 2. Arshdeep Singh: The Elite Alternative Should the opportunity arise via a trade or a specific auction window, Arshdeep Singh remains the gold standard for Indian left-arm seamers. Arshdeep possesses the rare combination of Powerplay wicket-taking ability and tactical intelligence at the death. His presence would not only replace Dayal but arguably upgrade the entire bowling unit, providing a world-class partner for the likes of Mohammed Siraj. 3. Khaleel Ahmed: The New-Ball Menace Khaleel Ahmed has reinvented himself over the last two seasons, showing remarkable control over his lengths. Much like Yash Dayal, Khaleel excels at moving the ball into the right-handers during the first six overs. For RCB, maintaining a left-right combination in the opening spell is crucial to disrupting the rhythm of opposition openers. Khaleel’s improved fitness and pace make him a very viable tactical replacement. RCB’s decision will ultimately depend on whether they want a like-for-like swing bowler or if they want to pivot toward a specialist death bowler. Given the batting-friendly nature of their home ground, a bowler with a high "dot-ball" percentage will likely be the priority.

Winter Kidney Care: Everyday Mistakes That Can Seriously Harm Your Kidney Health

Winter often brings comfort foods, cosy blankets and a slower pace of life, but for your kidneys, this season can quietly become a danger zone. Many people unknowingly make everyday mistakes in cold weather that put extra pressure on this vital organ. Since the kidneys play a critical role in filtering toxins, removing excess fluids and keeping the blood clean, even small lapses in winter care can gradually lead to serious health concerns. Understanding what harms kidney health in winter and how to prevent it, is essential for long-term wellbeing. ALSO READ: Top 5 Plant-Based Oils For Sensitive Skin This Winter: Expert-Backed Guide To Natural Glow Why Winter Creates Problems For Kidneys One of the biggest challenges during winter is low water consumption. Cold weather reduces thirst, leading many to believe they do not need to drink much water. This assumption is incorrect. For kidneys to function properly, the body must remain well-hydrated. Even if you do not feel thirsty, sipping water every one to two hours is necessary. Proper hydration keeps urine a light yellow colour, which indicates healthy fluid levels. This reduces the strain on kidneys and lowers the risk of kidney stone formation. Warm Water: The Best Choice In Cold Weather During winter, lukewarm water is the safest and most beneficial option. It keeps the body warm from within and helps flush harmful waste from the kidneys. Compared to cold water, warm water also supports digestion and maintains steady energy levels throughout the day, offering multiple health benefits while protecting kidney function. Dietary Habits That Support Kidney Health Water alone is not enough. Diet plays an equally important role in kidney care. Processed foods and high-salt meals increase calcium levels in urine, which significantly raises the risk of kidney stones. Fresh, light meals are strongly recommended. Foods rich in oxalates, such as spinach, beetroot, chocolate and excessive tea, should be consumed in moderation. A balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, lentils and wholesome meals is the most effective way to maintain kidney health during winter. Physical Activity Is Essential, Even In Cold Months Winter inactivity places additional stress on the kidneys. Remaining indoors and avoiding movement slows metabolism and prevents the body from eliminating harmful substances effectively. Daily walks, light stretching or simple exercises keep the system active, reduce toxin buildup and lower the chances of stone formation. Regular movement is one of the most powerful yet overlooked ways to support kidney function. Do Not Ignore Warning Signs Kidney problems should never be ignored, especially in winter. Persistent lower back pain, burning sensation during urination or blood in urine are serious symptoms that demand immediate medical attention. Delaying treatment can lead to severe health complications. Early diagnosis and timely care remain the most reliable methods for preserving kidney health and extending its long-term function. [Disclaimer: The information provided in the article is shared by experts and is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.]

What is behind the mysterious red lights seen over the Pacific?

Vast red glows observed from above the Pacific Ocean reveal extensive human activity: massive Chinese fishing fleets using red LED lights to attract giant squid. This artificial illumination, visible from thousands of meters, highlights the scale of modern distant water fishing and raises ecological concerns about disrupting marine life and predator-prey dynamics.

How far have Earth’s radio signals really travelled into space

Earth's radio bubble, a century-old expansion of broadcast signals, now spans over 119 light-years. While these waves have reached nearby stars like Proxima Centauri, they are too faint and blended with cosmic noise for any civilization to decipher. Modern communication methods are also reducing the energy leaked into space, making Earth quieter.

Have scientists found an active triple black hole system in a galaxy merger; know the truth

Astronomers have discovered a rare cosmic event: three supermassive black holes, each at the heart of a merging galaxy, are actively feeding and emitting radio waves. This unprecedented observation confirms theoretical models of triple black hole systems and provides a real-world example of multiple black holes consuming matter simultaneously, a phenomenon previously unseen in such detail.

Tata Sierra 1.5-Litre Turbo Petrol Mileage Review: It Is More Than You Think!

The Sierra has been hogging the limelight, and everyone has reviewed it. We, however, decided to wait and spend some more time before coming up with our verdict, while first let us talk regarding fuel efficiency. The Sierra has the new Hyperion 1.5 litre turbo petrol, which develops 160bhp and 255Nm along with a 6-speed torque converter automatic gearbox from Aisin.  We will touch upon fuel efficiency here, and the Sierra gave us 12-12 kmpl in the city and with some highway runs thrown in. The efficiency that we got was in City mode most of the time, while we used Sport mode for short distances. The efficiency here is actually more than the Curvv petrol with the 1.2L turbo petrol, and this new engine family powering the Sierra does indeed give better efficiency figures.  The city fuel efficiency is actually also higher than other SUVs, which means you will get a minimum of 11-12 kmpl or 12-13kmpl in the city. We used the climate control function and did not drive sedately, but in our standard driving style with a mix of city traffic due to Christmas celebrations.  We feel the use of the TC gearbox makes this better suited and brings in more efficiency over a dual clutch automatic, which rivals use for the turbo petrol engines. This engine has also set new fuel efficiency records, and going forward, this engine is an important element for its future cars as well. For now, the Sierra with the 1.5L turbo petrol is pretty efficient in the city. 

Tata Sierra Turbo Petrol Mileage: Yes, It’s Better Than You Think

The Sierra has been hogging the limelight and everyone has reviewed it. We however decided to wait and spend some more time before coming up with our verdict while first let us talk regarding fuel efficiency. City and Highway Fuel Efficiency The Sierra has the new Hyperion 1.5 litre turbo petrol which develops 160bhp and 255Nm along with a 6-speed torque converter automatic gearbox from Aisin. We will touch upon fuel efficiency here and the Sierra gave us 12-12 kmpl in the city and with some highway runs thrown in. The efficiency that we got was in City mode most of the time while we used Sport mode for short distances. The efficiency here is actually more than the Curvv petrol with the 1.2l turbo petrol and this new engine family powering the Sierra does indeed give better efficiency figures. The city fuel efficiency is actually also higher than other SUVs which means you will get a minimum 11-12 kmpl or 12-13kmpl in the city. Driving Conditions and Gearbox Impact We used the climate control function and did not drive sedately but in our standard driving style with a mix of city traffic due to Christmas celebrations. We feel the use of the TC gearbox makes this better suited and brings in more efficiency over a dual clutch automatic which rivals use for the turbo petrol engines. This engine has also set new fuel efficiency records and going forward this engine is an important element for its future cars as well. For now, the Sierra with the 1.5l turbo petrol is pretty efficient in the city.

Massive Fake e-Challan Scam Exposed: How Indian Drivers Are Being Tricked Online

Indian vehicle owners are facing a fresh and increasingly sophisticated cyber threat, as security researchers have uncovered a large-scale phishing campaign impersonating official Regional Transport Office (RTO) e-Challan services.  The scam, which relies entirely on browser-based deception rather than malware, has already been linked to more than 36 fake domains designed to steal banking and card details from unsuspecting users. The findings come from Cyble Research and Intelligence Labs (CRIL), whose investigation mirrors recent warnings flagged by mainstream media, including the Hindustan Times. Researchers say the campaign is active, well-organised and deliberately designed to exploit trust in government services. A Shift From Malware to Browser-Based Fraud Unlike earlier scams that depended on malicious Android applications, this operation marks a strategic shift towards browser-based phishing. According to CRIL, this change dramatically lowers the technical barrier for attackers while expanding the pool of potential victims. “This campaign demonstrates a pivot from the previously observed Android malware use to browser-based fraud, which significantly lowers the technical barriers and expands the pool of potential victims,” said Daksh Nakra, Senior Manager of Research and Intelligence at Cyble. By using fake websites that closely resemble genuine government portals, attackers are able to trap users without requiring them to install any suspicious apps, making the fraud harder for many people to detect. How the Fake e-Challan Scam Works The attack typically begins with an SMS message claiming that the recipient has an unpaid traffic fine. These messages are crafted to create panic, often warning of licence suspension, court summons or legal action if payment is not made immediately. The SMS contains a shortened link that appears to redirect users to an official e-Challan website. In reality, the link leads to a professionally cloned portal designed to look like legitimate government infrastructure. Once on the site, victims are asked to enter basic details such as a vehicle number. Regardless of what information is provided, the portal generates a convincing-looking violation record. Psychological Tricks Built Into the Scam CRIL’s analysis found that the portals use several psychological tactics to pressure victims: The fine amount is kept modest, typically around Rs 590, making it easier for people to pay without second thought Expiry dates are set close to the current date, increasing urgency No backend verification takes place; violation records are entirely fabricated Government branding, including references to the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways and NIC-style insignia, is replicated to boost credibility Payment Pages Designed to Steal Card Data One of the clearest red flags lies in the payment process. The fake portals deliberately restrict payment options to credit and debit cards only, avoiding UPI and net banking, which are more traceable. Victims are asked to enter full card details, including card number, CVV and expiry date. The site falsely claims that payments are being processed through Indian banks. Researchers noted that the portals accept repeated submissions, silently sending every set of card details to servers controlled by the attackers. Local Infrastructure Used to Build Trust To further increase legitimacy, the campaign uses highly localised infrastructure. The phishing SMS messages originate from Indian mobile numbers registered with Reliance Jio Infocomm Limited. In some cases, these numbers are linked to State Bank of India accounts. “The use of Indian mobile numbers registered with popular telecom operators and linked to State Bank of India accounts shows how attackers deliberately exploit trust in familiar institutions to increase success rates,” Nakra said. This local setup makes the messages appear far more authentic than scams sent through international gateways. A Wider Fraud Network Beyond Traffic Fines CRIL’s infrastructure analysis suggests the operation is not limited to fake e-Challan portals. The same backend systems are being used to target multiple sectors. Researchers identified phishing domains impersonating banking services, including HSBC-themed payment lures, logistics firms such as DTDC and Delhivery, and government transport services like Parivahan. The reuse of user interfaces, payment-harvesting logic and domain-generation techniques points to a professional phishing network rather than isolated scams. The campaign also employs several anti-detection techniques. Content on some phishing pages was originally written in Spanish and later translated via browser prompts, suggesting template reuse across geographies. Domains are frequently rotated to evade takedowns and blocklists. While browser warnings from tools such as Microsoft Defender do appear, the urgency created by the messages often leads users to ignore them. At the time of publication, many of the identified phishing domains were still active, underlining the ongoing nature of the threat. What Vehicle Owners Should Do Cybersecurity experts urge the public to remain cautious: Never click on links in unsolicited SMS messages claiming traffic violations Verify fines only through official portals such as parivahan.gov.in Check website URLs carefully for spelling errors or unusual domain extensions Be wary of payment pages that accept only credit or debit cards Report suspicious messages to cybercrime authorities immediately CRIL has published detailed technical indicators, detection guidance and threat mappings in its full blog post, along with indicators of compromise that have been shared publicly to help security teams block the campaign. For everyday users, the key takeaway is simple: a moment’s verification can prevent significant financial loss. As digital services grow, so too does the need for vigilance.

Why this Indian river turns red during the monsoon

India's rivers transform annually during the monsoon season. Heavy rainfall increases river flow, stirring up sediment. Iron-rich soil particles are carried into the water, giving it a red hue. This natural process is linked to climate and geographical features. The intensity of the monsoon directly impacts the river's color. This annual event highlights India's dynamic natural cycles.

From foot to head: How Chinese doctors kept a severed ear alive; reattached it months later

In a remarkable feat of reconstructive surgery, Chinese doctors successfully grafted a woman's severed ear onto her foot to preserve it. After a severe workplace accident, the ear was reattached to her head following extensive scalp reconstruction. This innovative procedure highlights China's history of pioneering, unconventional medical interventions for severe injuries.

Top 5 Plant-Based Oils For Sensitive Skin This Winter: Expert-Backed Guide To Natural Glow

{By: Lalita Arya} Winter is a season of cosy scarves and hot drinks, but for your skin, it can be harsh. Cold winds and dry indoor heating strip away moisture, leaving skin tight, dry, and easily irritated. For sensitive skin, this can be especially uncomfortable. While creams and lotions help, plant-based oils provide gentle, nourishing care that protects your skin and keeps it glowing all season long. ALSO READ: Hair Transplant vs Genetics: The Hidden Factor Behind Long-Term Hair Loss Success Why Plant-Based Oils Work Plant-based oils are rich in fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants. They not only hydrate but also strengthen the skin’s natural barrier, helping it resist the harsh winter environment. Sensitive skin benefits particularly because these oils are gentle, lightweight, and less likely to cause irritation compared to synthetic products. Oils That Shine In Winter Jojoba Oil (Image Source: Pinterest/thenakedchemist) Jojoba oil is almost identical to the skin’s natural sebum, making it easily absorbed without clogging pores. Applying a few drops after a shower helps lock in moisture, soothe irritation, and restore balance to sensitive skin. Its light texture ensures it doesn’t feel greasy, even on delicate areas like the face and neck. Sweet Almond Oil (Image Source: Pinterest/ameliaanderson111) Sweet almond oil is packed with vitamins A and E, known for their skin-repairing and anti-inflammatory properties. This oil is particularly effective at calming redness and dryness. Tip: A gentle nightly massage can nourish the skin and become a relaxing self-care ritual. Argan Oil (Image Source: Pinterest/RapidLeaksIndia) Argan oil penetrates deeply to hydrate and repair winter-damaged skin. Its antioxidant-rich composition protects the skin from environmental stress while restoring softness. Regular use helps sensitive skin stay resilient against dryness and irritation. Rosehip Oil (Image Source: Pinterest/womenshealthmag) Rosehip oil is a lightweight oil that supports skin regeneration. Rich in essential fatty acids, it improves elasticity and smooths dry patches without leaving a heavy residue. Sensitive skin can enjoy hydration without the risk of clogged pores or breakouts. Coconut Oil (Image Source: Pinterest/virgincoconuto) Coconut oil provides a protective layer that locks in moisture and soothes irritation. For sensitive skin, virgin or cold-pressed coconut oil is best, ensuring a pure and gentle treatment. Quick Winter Tips Always apply oils to slightly damp skin to seal in hydration. Use 2-3 drops and massage gently, overuse can overwhelm sensitive skin. Consider mixing oils with your moisturiser for extra nourishment. For deeper restoration, professional treatments can help repair and strengthen the skin barrier, especially during harsh winter months. By including these plant-based oils in your winter skincare routine, your skin can stay soft, calm, and naturally radiant, no matter how cold it gets outside. The author, Ms.Lalita Arya, is CEO, at Dermapuritys. [Disclaimer: The information provided in the article is shared by experts and is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.]

Could global warming paradoxically freeze the planet: How tiny ocean organisms could flip Earth’s climate

Ancient oceans, driven by microscopic life, once pulled vast amounts of carbon from the atmosphere, leading to dramatic cooling and ice ages. This biological pump, fueled by plankton, highlights how marine ecosystems can profoundly reshape global climate. Today's changing oceans may trigger similar, unpredictable shifts, underscoring life's power to alter planetary conditions.

BCCI Hasn't Raised Umpires' Salaries In 7 Years - Here's What They Earn Per Match

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has substantially raised player salaries in recent years across all levels - international and domestic, men’s and women’s cricket alike. These moves to improve player earnings have drawn praise not only from Indian cricketers but also from players and experts worldwide. However, the same cannot be said for match officials, as the salaries of BCCI umpires have remained unchanged for the last seven years. A recent report has highlighted that BCCI currently operates with a pool of 186 umpires, classified into four different categories. How Many Umpires Does  BCCI Have and How Much Do They Earn? According to a Cricbuzz report, BCCI umpires are grouped into four categories - A+, A, B, and C - similar to the grading system used for centrally contracted players. The distribution currently stands at nine umpires in A+, 20 in A, 58 in B, and 99 in C. In terms of match fees, umpires in the A+ and A categories are paid ₹40,000 per day, while those in the B and C categories receive ₹30,000 per day. Notably, these rates have remained static for the past seven years. Umpires Committee’s Recommendation to BCCI The report further revealed that the BCCI’s Umpires Committee has recommended a revamp of the existing pay structure. The proposal suggests reducing the four-category system to just two categories and implementing a uniform daily fee of ₹40,000 for all umpires. While this recommendation was presented to the BCCI Apex Council, the board has deferred a decision for now and opted to form a separate committee, which is expected to submit its findings at the next Apex Council meeting. Vijay Hazare Trophy Season Gets Underway With the Ranji Trophy and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy recently concluded, the Indian domestic calendar has now moved on to the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Once the tournament wraps up, the second phase of the Ranji Trophy will begin. Alongside this, the domestic schedule also includes Senior Women’s One-Day and T20 competitions, as well as several junior-level tournaments. All these matches are officiated by the same group of 186 BCCI-appointed umpires.

China Reportedly Begins Clearing Rare-Earth Magnet Licences – What It Means For India’s EV Makers

India’s automobile and electric vehicle (EV) industry may finally be seeing some light at the end of a long supply-chain tunnel.  After months of uncertainty and delays, China has reportedly begun issuing export licences for rare-earth magnets (REMs) destined for India, a move that could ease pressure on automakers and component manufacturers who had warned of serious production disruptions. Citing government officials, Business Standard reported that China’s Ministry of Commerce has started processing applications for rare-earth magnet exports, marking the first tangible progress since Beijing tightened controls earlier this year.  “Although it’s a slow start, China’s Ministry of Commerce has started processing and clearing the applications. Some companies have received necessary approvals. The process has now started,” one official said. Why Rare-Earth Magnets Matter Rare-earth magnets are a critical component across a wide range of industries, including automobiles, EVs, electronics, medical equipment and defence. In the automotive sector, they are especially vital for electric motors used in EVs, power steering systems and various high-efficiency components. China dominates global production and processing capacity for rare-earth magnets, giving it significant leverage over global supply chains. Beijing imposed export licensing requirements on REMs from April 4, a move that immediately affected multiple countries, including India. The restrictions came amid rising trade tensions, with China responding to higher US tariffs on Chinese goods. Slow Clearances, But Some Progress Citing officials, the report noted that approvals are now coming through suppliers, including Indian companies and Indian units of foreign firms.  Among those reportedly benefiting from the initial clearances are Jay Ushin, Indian units of German automotive component maker Continental AG, vendors supplying Mahindra and Maruti Suzuki, and suppliers to Honda Scooters and Motorcycles. No official comment has been made by either of these companies yet.  Industry Concerns Over Production Risks The Indian automobile industry had earlier flagged the delays in approvals from China’s Ministry of Commerce as a major risk to production schedules. Automakers and component suppliers warned that prolonged disruptions could hit EV manufacturing in particular, at a time when India is pushing hard to scale up electric mobility. Officials described China’s licensing process as complicated and time-consuming. Under the new rules, Chinese exporters are required to secure assurances from importers that the materials will not be used for dual-use purposes or defence-related applications. This added layer of scrutiny significantly slowed approvals, creating bottlenecks for Indian manufacturers dependent on these inputs. Diplomatic Engagement Behind the Scenes Over the past six months, the Indian government has been engaged in discussions with Chinese authorities to address industry concerns around delayed shipments of critical raw materials.  These talks gained momentum during a visit by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi to New Delhi in June, when he reportedly assured External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar that China would ease restrictions on exports of rare earth minerals and other items. The start of licence clearances suggests that some of these diplomatic efforts may now be bearing fruit, even if the pace remains cautious. Has the Industry Managed So Far? Despite the uncertainty, the media organisation reported that Indian automakers and suppliers have managed to keep production lines running by finding alternative arrangements and adjusting schedules. However, these stopgap measures are not a long-term solution. The key question now is whether China’s move marks the beginning of a broader easing or remains limited to a small number of applicants. The pace and scale of future approvals will determine whether supply-chain risks truly recede or continue to hang over India’s auto and EV sectors. For India’s EV ecosystem, the stakes are high. As demand for electric vehicles accelerates and manufacturers ramp up capacity, reliable access to critical inputs like rare-earth magnets is essential. A sustained easing of export restrictions could help stabilise supply chains and support India’s clean mobility ambitions.

MoEF told Survey of India to map Aravali hills by 100m rule

The government has directed the Survey of India to map the Aravalis using a new 100-meter height definition, sparking widespread protests. Environmentalists fear this shift to a height-based marker will significantly shrink the recognized ranges, potentially undermining conservation efforts for the predominantly low-lying Aravalis. The ministry maintains mining controls remain intact.