Why are restrictions only limited to the bowler?: Ashwin reflects on Usman Tariq’s bowling action amid criticism

New Delhi, Feb 11, 2026

Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has come out in support of Pakistan’s Usman Tariq after the latter’s bowling action came under scrutiny during the T20 World Cup 2026, saying “why are the restrictions only limited to the bowler?”

Tariq impressed with figures of 3-27 in Pakistan’s Group A win over the USA on Tuesday, securing his side’s second victory of the tournament. However, despite his match-winning performance, attention quickly shifted to his bowling action, sparking debate.

Known for a visible bend in his arm and an unconventional run-up, Tariq has faced questions over the legality of his action and whether it would stand up to international scrutiny, including in top T20 leagues. During Pakistan’s recent bilateral series against Australia, all-rounder Cameron Green had also raised concerns about the spinner’s action.

On Wednesday, former India cricketer Shreevats Goswami criticised Tariq’s pause during his run-up, comparing it to a rule change in football that disallows players from pausing during a penalty run-up.

“Even football doesn’t allow players to pause during a penalty run-up anymore. How is this ok? Action – all good. But pause? That too while loading to deliver. This can’t be continued seriously!” Goswami wrote on X.

Responding to the objection, Ashwin questioned why bowlers often face stricter regulations compared to batters.

“Agree football doesn’t allow it! While the batter can be allowed to switch-hit or reverse without informing the umpire or bowler after him/her commits to start batting on one side, why are the restrictions only limited to the bowler? In fact the bowler isn’t allowed to change the arm with which he/she bowls without informing the umpire! They should first change that rule,” Ashwin wrote.

As debate intensified on social media, with some users criticising Ashwin’s stance, the veteran off-spinner clarified that only official testing could determine the legality of Tariq’s action.

“Let me make it as clear as possible. Firstly, the legality of his action can only be tested at an ICC bowling action testing centre. Secondly, there is a 15-degree rule under which a bowler needs to keep his elbow straight, and to judge if a bowler is bowling within that 15-degree mark by the on-field umpire is impossible. The only solution to that is having a real-time in-competition testing tool. The above is a grey area and to accuse someone of utilising the grey area is wrong. Finally, if the pause at the crease is legal or not, and I believe that it is entirely legal because that is his regular action.”(Agency)

11th Foundation Day celebrations of MRSPTU begin with spiritual fervour and academic zeal

Bathinda, February 10, 2026(Yes Punjab News)

The week-long celebrations marking the 11th Foundation Day of Maharaja Ranjit Singh Punjab Technical University (MRSPTU), Bathinda, commenced on Tuesday with the solemn and auspicious start of Shri Akhand Path Sahib on the university campus.

The spiritual ceremony set a serene and respectful tone for the celebrations, reflecting the university’s commitment to cultural values, collective harmony, and the rich heritage of Punjab.

“The journey of MRSPTU in a relatively short span has been truly remarkable and inspiring. It is a moment of pride for me to lead a university that is known for its dedicated faculty, hardworking students, and progressive vision,” said the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sanjeev Kumar Sharma, while extending his heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to the faculty, staff, students, alumni, and all stakeholders on the occasion of the foundation day. He also emphasized the university’s commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and holistic development.

On the opening day, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Sanjeev Kumar Sharma, Registrar Dr. Gurinder Pal Singh Brar, and Programme Convenor and Director (Sports and Youth Welfare) Dr. Bhupinder Pal Singh Dhot, along with senior faculty members, staff, and students, enthusiastically participated in the inaugural events, marking the beginning of the celebrations with great zeal and devotion.

An exhibition on Sikh history and the lives of the Guru Sahiban was also organised by noted artist and faculty member S. H.S. Sohal, which drew keen interest from students and visitors alike. The exhibition highlighted significant historical moments, spiritual teachings, and the enduring legacy of the Sikh Gurus, creating an atmosphere of reflection and learning.

On the occasion, Dr. Swarandeep Singh Noor of Government College, Hoshiarpur, delivered an enlightening lecture on the life, philosophy, and supreme sacrifice of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. His address inspired the audience by emphasizing the Guru’s message of courage, religious freedom, and universal brotherhood.

The celebrations will continue on February 11 with an expert lecture on “The Life and Philosophy of Maharaja Ranjit Singh” by renowned historian and philosopher Dr. Sumail Singh Sidhu. The event aims to provide students and faculty with deeper insights into the visionary leadership, secular governance, and administrative excellence of the great Sikh ruler.

On February 12, the Bhog ceremony of Shri Akhand Path Sahib will be held, followed by soulful Kirtan and Guru Ka Langar (community kitchen), fostering a spirit of equality, service, and togetherness among the university community.

As part of the Foundation Day celebrations, an Art, Cultural, and Literary Festival titled “Tarannum” will be organised on February 12 and 13, showcasing the creative talents of students through music, poetry, theatre, and various cultural performances.

The celebrations will culminate on February 14 with an Alumni Meet, providing a platform for former students to reconnect with their alma mater and share their professional experiences with the current generation.

Photo Caption: Vice-Chancellor Prof. Sanjeev Kumar Sharma, along with senior faculty, staff, and students, during the Foundation Day celebrations of MRSPTU on Tuesday. Glimpses of the event.

Pak-ISI Backed Terror Plot Foiled in Amritsar; One Held with RDX-based IED

Amritsar, Feb 11, 2026(Yes Punjab News)

In an intelligence-led operation amidst the ongoing drive to make Punjab a safe and secure state as per directions of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, State Special Operations Cell (SSOC) Amritsar has foiled a Pakistan’s ISI-backed terror plot with the arrest of one accused person and recovered an RDX-based Improvised Explosive Device (IED) from his possession, said Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav here on Tuesday.

The arrested accused has been identified as Rahul Kumar alias Gaju, a resident of Chamrang Road in Amritsar. He works as an assistant in a salon in Amritsar.

DGP Gaurav Yadav said that preliminary investigation has indicated that the arrested accused was in contact with a foreign-based handler acting under the instructions of Pak-based handlers.

Probe has also revealed that accused Rahul retrieved the consignment from a designated location on the outskirts of the city following the instructions of his foreign-based handler, he said, while adding that the device was concealed in a PVC pipe casing, likely to evade detection.

The DGP said that further probe regarding the ultimate disposal/destination of the IED is being conducted.

Sharing operational details, AIG SSOC Amritsar Sukhminder Singh Mann said that following a credible intel-input about the consignment containing IED pushed from Pakistan, police teams have launched an operation and arrested suspect Rahul alias Gaju after recovering IED from his possession.

The AIG said that arrested accused came in contact with his foreign-based handler during his visit to Punjab in 2022 and they remained in contact with each other through encrypted mobile apps.

The foreign-based handler initially cultivated Rahul by providing him with small amounts to meet his expenses before tasking him with this assignment, he said, while adding that further investigation is ongoing.

In this regard, a case FIR No. 08 dated 09.02.2026 has been registered under section 3, 4 and 5 of the Explosive Substance Act, section 25 of the Arms Act and sections 111 and 61 (2) of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) at Police Station SSOC Amritsar.

T20 WC: Abhishek Sharma hospitalised with stomach infection, doubtful for Namibia clash

New Delhi, Feb 11, 2026

India’s left-handed opener Abhishek Sharma is in doubt for Thursday’s clash against Namibia in the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup after being admitted to a private hospital in New Delhi due to stomach infection.

Sharma, 25, missed the training session at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Tuesday evening and remains under medical observation, with assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate confirming in a press conference that he’s down with a stomach bug.

“Abhishek Sharma has been admitted to a private hospital in New Delhi since Monday due to his stomach infection issues. The Indian team management will decide on his availability for the clash against Namibia on Thursday based on what the doctor’s report says.

“Some further tests have happened too, so they are awaiting what it would tell about his total recovery timeline and subsequent availability for the game against Namibia,” said a source tracking the development to IANS.

Sharma played in India’s opening Group A game against USA at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai with high fever, where he bagged a duck. Later, a stomach bug led to him not fielding in the second innings, as Suryakumar Yadav-led India won by 29 runs.

The Indian team management will be reluctant to rush him back, considering the defending champions have a marquee clash against Pakistan in Colombo on February 15 and then take on Netherlands in Ahmedabad on February 18, before the Super Eight stage begins.

Sharma’s absence could open the door for Sanju Samson to partner with in-form Ishan Kishan at the top of the batting order. Wicketkeeper-batter Samson struggled as an opener in the recent 4-1 home series win over New Zealand.

In Tuesday’s practice session, Samson did spend considerable time batting alongside Kishan. India will have another practice session at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Wednesday evening before taking the field for the clash against Namibia on Thursday.(Agency)

T20 WC: ‘We are Pakistan, we do things differently,’ says skipper Agha on team’s ‘clinical’ win vs USA

Colombo, Feb 11, 2026

Pakistan captain Salman Agha appeared relaxed and satisfied after leading his team to a 32-run victory over the United States in their Group A match at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup at the Sinhalese Sports Club on Tuesday. He called the performance clinical but also highlighted the potential for further improvement.

Asked about his demeanour after the victory, Agha brushed it off with trademark humour before turning his attention to the team’s all-round effort, particularly the improvement in the middle overs with the bat.

“I always smile. When have you seen me not smile? (laughs). Clinical win. Last game, we didn’t bat well in the middle overs, but today we did. Once we scored 190, we knew we could defend that,” Agha said during the post-match presentation.

Agha said he would have opted to bat first regardless of the toss, backing Pakistan’s bowling resources to defend even modest totals while underlining the team’s distinctive approach to the game. “I would’ve batted first after winning the toss. With the kind of bowling we have, we know we can win even with 160-170. We are Pakistan, we do things differently from the world,” he said.

Despite his preference, the skipper stressed that Pakistan were equally comfortable chasing, pointing to the adaptability within the batting unit as he said, “We’re comfortable with chasing as well. Our batting order is flexible. First three will probably go in the same order, but we’re flexible after that.”

Explaining the depth and versatility in the lineup, Agha said Pakistan’s options allowed them to respond to different match situations without compromising intent. He was pleased with the overall performance and reiterated that the side was far from complacent, highlighting areas that could still be sharpened as the tournament progresses.

“We have finishers who can go early if we don’t get too many wickets at first. But if you get early wickets, we still have a batter who can go and obviously take the game to the deep and then allow the finishers to come and finish the game as well.

Always room for improvement. We like to bowl well in Power-play. In patches, we were good, but we can be more clinical,” Agha concluded.(Agency)

T20 WC: ‘Told my coach I’ll earn the POTM award,’ says Sahibzada Farhan after match-winning 73 vs USA

Colombo, Feb 10, 2026

Opening batter Sahibzada Farhan credited his preparation, confidence, and clarity of role at the top of the order after powering Pakistan to a 32-run win over the USA in their Group A encounter of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup at the Sinhalese Sports Club in Colombo on Tuesday.

Farhan’s explosive 73 off 41 balls laid the foundation for Pakistan’s imposing total of 190/9, a performance the opener said he anticipated during practice on the eve of the match.

“The way we practised yesterday, the ball was coming onto my bat really well in the nets. I had already told our batting coach (Hanif Malik) yesterday that I was getting a good feeling for today’s match,” he said during the post-match presentation.

The right-hander said his self-belief entering the contest was unwavering, and he even predicted a Player of the Match performance. “I was confident. I even said, I will finish the match in a way that earns me the Player of the Match award,” he stated.

Farhan added that individual milestones were part of his broader goals for the tournament, underscoring his commitment to consistency at the global stage as he said, “I’ve set a personal target for myself, to win at least two to three Player of the Match awards in this World Cup.”

Reflecting on the conditions at Colombo, Farhan felt the surface allowed stroke-makers to play with freedom, which suited Pakistan’s aggressive approach at the top. The 28-year-old explained that his natural attacking instincts aligned perfectly with the demands of T20 cricket, especially in the early overs.

“I felt this pitch was much better. The ball was coming nicely onto the bat. Opening alongside Saim Ayub, Farhan said the duo’s responsibility was clearly defined, particularly during the Power-play. As openers, the role for me and Saim Ayub is always to utilise the powerplay properly. I naturally play an attacking brand of cricket,” he added.

While Ayub provided early momentum before falling for 19, Farhan believed his partner was unfortunate not to build on the start and said his own approach remained unchanged, sticking to his strengths rather than curbing intent. He also credited the clarity provided by the team leadership, stressing that aggression in the Power-play was a tactical directive.

“Ayub got the start today but was a bit unlucky. My thinking was to continue playing my natural game because in T20 cricket, as an opener, you have to play that way. That’s the role given to us by the captain, to keep the attack on in the first six overs,” he said.

Looking ahead, Farhan indicated that Pakistan would not deviate from their attacking philosophy, even against stronger opposition, and ended by reiterating the team’s commitment to positive cricket as the tournament progresses.

“We’ll go in with the same mindset as we did in our previous matches against India, including the Asia Cup. We’ll try to stay positive and play attacking cricket,” Farhan concluded.(Agency)

Players Championship: Kshitij Naveed Kaul drives his way to top in Rd 1

New Delhi, Feb 10, 2026

Kshitij Naveed Kaul drove his way to the top in round one of the INR 1.5 crore Players Championship 2026 being played at the Qutab Golf Course in New Delhi.

Kshitij posted a flawless eight-under 62 at the Par-70 course, one of his favourite venues, where he had also set the course record with a 10-under 60 last year.

Honey Baisoya’s 63 placed him second, while the quartet consisting of American Jhared Hack, winner of the season-opener last week, Kushal Singh, Dhruv Sheoran, and Akshay Sharma, were a further shot behind in tied third place. Former PGTI Order of Merit champion Veer Ahlawat began the week with a 65 to be tied seventh.

The 25-year-old Kshitij Naveed Kaul, a winner of five PGTI events, including one last season, drove the ball to perfection on Tuesday as he landed four of his drives close to the green. His round also featured a couple of immaculate bunker shots.

Kshitij, who had a fourth-place finish last week in Naya Raipur, collected three birdies on the back nine and added five more on the front nine, including four on the trot.

Kshitij, who hails from the Delhi Golf Club, said, “My driving and bunker shots were top-notch today. I came close to finding the green with my drives on a few occasions. My approach shots were also quite accurate. I really enjoy playing on this golf course. I had a great outing here last year as well. In this course, making chip-putts from close range is not easy, so hitting good wedge shots from a longer range is that much more important. That’s what I managed to do well today.”

Honey Baisoya, who was in contention at the season-opener last week, having led the field after round three, continued the good work at Qutab Golf Course with an error-free effort of seven-under 63. Honey picked up four birdies on the back nine and three on the front nine.

Jhared Hack and Kushal Singh produced magic with their wedges as the former landed it within five feet on four occasions while the latter started the day with three consecutive birdies, all tap-ins from two feet.(Agency)

Isha Koppikar enjoys ‘Comfort on a plate’ as she savours her Gujarati Thali

Mumbai, Feb 11, 2026

Actress Isha Koppikar enjoyed ‘Comfort on a plate’ as she relished a Gujarati Thali during her recent trip to Gandhinagar.

Isha took to the stories section of her official Instagram handle and dropped a video of herself enjoying a lavish thali in a restaurant during her fun getaway.

The clip opened with her saying, “Okay, we are in Gandhinagar (Gujarat).”

Next, the ‘Ek Vivaah Aisa Bhi’ actress went on to show the various items in her appetizing Thali, flaunting the enriched food culture of Gujarat.

She pointed towards the various items such as Basundi, Dal, Aloo ki sabzi, Kaddu, Gobi, Chutney, Dhokla, Chat, Roti, and Thepla in her thali. We could also see Isha enjoying all the Gujarati delicacies, savouring every bite along the way.

“Comfort on a plate, happiness in every bite… Eating it. Loving it. Enjoying it (sic),” Isha captioned the post.

The ‘Hello’ actress likes to keep her InstaFam up-to-date with whatever is going on in her personal and professional life.

Before stepping into 2026, Isha decided to reflect on her journey through 2025. She admitted that her passion for cinema has grown significantly stronger over the year.

She shared that for her, storytelling has always felt like home, and in 2025, her connection with films has deepened even further.

Isha’s heartfelt note on the photo-sharing app went, “2025 rocked with all the right moments—now owning 31st with faith for an amazing 2026. Universe got us! #2026 #newyearfaith #vibehigh #faithwins.”

She was further heard saying in her Instagram video, “This year taught me once again, consistency beats everything. Moments with my little ones reminded me what truly matters. My love for cinema only grew deeper because storytelling feels like home. Every set, every frame pushed me to move hearts and inspire minds.”

“New places, new energies kept me evolving, exploring, becoming. And everywhere I went, I felt a deeper pride for our culture, our roots, and our rising Bharat. To my friends and family, thank you for the warmth, the love that kept me steady. I am stepping into a new year with gratitude in my heart, fire in my spirit. I am Bappa’s blessings, guiding every step,” added Isha.(Agency)

Cong MPs misbehaved with Speaker Om Birla, abused him in chamber: Kiren Rijiju

New Delhi, Feb 11, 2026

Minister of Parliamentary Affairs Kiren Rijiju on Wednesday claimed that Congress MPs misbehaved with Speaker Om Birla in his chamber and abused him, calling it “unprecedented and never seen before” in parliamentary parlance.

The explosive ‘disclosures’ by the Union Minister are set to kick up a fresh row, and add more intensity to the already bitter confrontation between the government and the opposition.

Speaking to scribes ahead of Wednesday’s session, Kiren Rijiju said, “Congress parliamentarians, after visiting the Speaker’s chamber, threatened him, misbehaved with him and went to the extent of abusing him.”

Stating that he was appalled at such bizarre behaviour, he said that the opposition blatantly disobeys the Speaker’s instructions inside the House and then accuses him of being partisan towards them.

“I haven’t seen such a precedent before,” he added.

The Union Minister also lambasted the opposition for repeated breaches of Parliamentary conventions and advised them to follow laid down rules and norms, even when submitting a no-confidence motion against the Speaker.

“There is a clear process, and established norms are there for what should and shouldn’t be done in such cases. I don’t have much to say, but I am deeply saddened that the sanctity of the Speaker’s office has been undermined,” he stated.

Rijiju also took exception to Rahul Gandhi’s “theatrics” in the House and asked all the members to constantly uphold the dignity of Parliament.

He said that any member of the House — a Parliamentarian or Prime Minister — first takes permission from the Speaker and then duly obeys the Chair, but these Parliamentary norms are of no value to the Leader of Opposition.

“For Rahul Gandhi, seeking the Chair’s nod is not necessary; rather, he goes on to say that he doesn’t need anyone’s permission to speak in the House. He says this is my right to speak. Everything is on record,” he told the media.

The minister further urged the opposition to maintain the dignity and decorum of the House and asked everyone to abide by the rules to maintain the sanctity of Parliamentary proceedings.(Agency)

Telangana govt splits Greater Hyderabad into three municipal corporations

Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy

Hyderabad, Feb 11, 2026

The Telangana government has divided the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) into three separate corporations. It has created two new corporations, Cyberabad and Malkajgiri, while retaining six out of 12 zones under GHMC.

A Government Order (GO) was issued on Wednesday, constituting three municipal corporations — Cyberabad Municipal Corporation, Malkajgiri Municipal Corporation and Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation.

The government also appointed Jayesh Ranjan, Special Chief Secretary to the Government, Metropolitan Area and Urban Development Department, as Special Officer for the three corporations.

R.V.Karnan will continue as the Commissioner of GHMC. G. Srijana has been transferred and posted as Commissioner, Cyberabad Municipal Corporation.

T. Vinay Krishna Reddy, Additional Commissioner, GHMC, has been transferred and posted as Commissioner, Malkajgiri Municipal Corporation.

According to the GO, the existing GHMC has been reorganised after careful examination/consideration of the administrative requirements arising out of the expansion of the city.

The move came a couple of months after the merger of the surrounding 27 urban local bodies with the GHMC to create the Core Urban Region (CURE). The government, in December last year, had approved the reorganisation of GHMC into 12 zones and 60 circles

Cyberabad Municipal Corporation will comprise the areas constituted by the Serilingampally, Kukatpally and Qutbullapur zones.

Malkajgiri Municipal Corporation will comprise the areas constituted by the Malkajgiri, Uppal and L.B. Nagar zones.

Areas under Shamshabad, Rajendernagar, Charminar, Golconda, Khairatabad and Secunderabad zones will come under GHMC.

The two new corporations will have a population of 35 lakh each, while GHMC will cover a population of 70 lakh.

The GO to split GHMC into three corporations was issued on the day when polling was underway for municipal elections in seven corporations and 116 municipalities in the state.

Elections for GHMC and two new corporations and a few other urban local bodies in the state are likely to be held in April-May.(Agency)

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