"Mujrim Na Banaye...": Pakistan Star Supports Babar After Asia Cup Shocker

Pakistan's former captain and a member of the cricket board's technical committee, Mohammad Hafeez, has called for supporting skipper Babar Azam and boosting his confidence ahead of next month's World Cup in India. In an interaction with the media on Saturday, Hafeez, referring to the criticism about Babar's captaincy, said the top batter alone could not be blamed for Pakistan's defeats in the Asia Cup.

"Main toh yeh kahunga ki event ke final tak bhi toh hum log hi pahuche the, toh vo kiski wajah se pahuche the? Toh agar final haarne ke upar zimedaar agar kaptaan ko thera rahe hain toh final pahuchne ka jo credit hai vo kaptaan ko kyun nahi dete? Toh ek shaqs ko iske upar mujrim na banaye aur tamaam results k evaluate karein, ki accha hone ki kya wajuhat thi aur bura hone ki kya wajuhat hai. (It is not fair to just blame him for not reaching the Asia Cup final. We are not willing to give credit alone to the captain for reaching a final so why blame him alone for not reaching the Asia Cup final. Cricket is a team game)," Hafeez said.

Thank you for supporting Babar Azam and speaking sense. Thank you for this statement, Mohammad Hafeez

What a sensible man 🇵🇰 #AsiaCup2023 pic.twitter.com/TiHBzzP1Ke

— Farid Khan (@_FaridKhan) September 16, 2023

He said right now the country's cricket fraternity needs to support Babar and his team.

"Toh ziyati taur pe main kisi ke favour mein hu lekin main yeh samjhta hu kyun ki main khud bhi kaptaan raha hu aur maine khud yeh failures chakhe hue hain. Abhi yeh waqt nahi hai yeh saari baat karne ka aur agar Babar humare kaptaan hain World Cup ke liye toh hume unhe bhut pyaar se aur badi duwaon se India bhejna chahiye aur unhe mazeed felicitate karna chahiye ki unke liye kya behtar kar sakte hain. Aur unfortunately agar results acche na aaye toh tab hume sochna chahiye ki hume isi ko continue karna hai ya hume behtar ki zaoorat hai. (Personally, I am not in favour of anybody but being an ex-captain, I have also experienced such failures. I think it's not the right time to talk about such things. If Babar is our captain for the World Cup, then we should all support him and send him to India with lot of love. If unfortunately, the results do not come in our favour, then we need to think strategically that whether we need Babar or do we need someone better.)"

Hafeez who appeared in the 2011 World Cup in India acknowledged it would be a tough challenge for the Pakistan team.

"The problem is many of our players have limited exposure of playing in Indian conditions.

"It is a big challenge for any Pakistani player to play in India in a mega event and also do well, but hopefully, we can count on our players to come through. We shouldn't let the Asia Cup disappointment spoil our optimism or support for the team." 

(This story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)

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"Khala Ka Ghar Nahi...": Akhtar On India Having It Easy In Asia Cup Final

Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar has warned Team India ahead of the Asia Cup final against Sri Lanka. The Rohit Sharma-led side received a timely wake up call following its loss to Bangladesh in the final Super 4 fixture on Friday. While India had rested several key players for the game, including star batter Virat Kohli, Akhtar suggested that it was a embarrassing defeat. Sri Lanka defeated tournament favourties Pakistan to reach the final, and Akhtar feels that winning the final won't be a cakewalk for India.

"We were not expecting that India would lose to a team like Bangladesh but they did. It was an embarrassing defeat. Pakistan lost to Sri Lanka. They are out of the Asia Cup, which is an even bigger embarrassment. India are still in the final. All is not lost for them. It was a great wakeup call for them to come back harder and make sure they secure victory in the finals but that will only happen if they play really well. Ye khala ji ka ghar nahi hai jaha pe India jake araam se jeet lega. Nothing of that sort is going to happen. It's going to be a tough game," Akhtar said on his YouTube channel.

"Sri Lanka is out there to beat India. And going into the World Cup, it could be anybody's game. India need to wake up. They lost to Bangladesh," he added.

Earlier this week, India defeated Sri Lanka by 41 runs in a Super 4 match to book their place in the final.

However, on two previous occasions, Sri Lanka have lost two India in the Super Four stage only to beat them in the finals, in 2004 and 2008.

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"So Sweet Of You": Nayanthara Responds To Allu Arjun's Review Of Jawan

Actress Nayanthara, who made her Bollywood debut with the blockbuster Jawan opposite superstar Shah Rukh Khan replied to National Film Award winner Allu Arjun on his review of her film. It so happened that the actor gave the biggest shout out to the film on X (previously known as Twitter) and he wrote, "Biggg congratulations to the whole team of JAWAN for this mammoth blockbuster. Warm regards to the entire cast , technicians, crew and producers of Jawan." Addressing Shah Rukh Khan, Allu Arjun wrote, "SRK garu's massiest avatar ever, charming the whole of India and beyond with his swag. Truly happy for you sir, we prayed this for you." For Vijay Sethupathi, Allu Arjun wrote, Vijay Sethupathi garu is so terrific in his role as always."

He acknowledged Nayanthara and Deepika Padukone with these words, "Deepika Padukone elegant, effortless and impactful star presence. Nayanthara shines brightest on a national scale." For music composer Anirudh, the Pushpa star wrote, "You are making everyone in the nation go on loop to your music." He signed off with these words, "Biggg biggg congrats for Atlee Sir garu for making us all proud , delivering thought-provoking commercial film and creating history at the Indian box office."

Replying to Allu Arjun's words of praise, Nayanthara wrote, "so sweet of you."

See her post below:

Earlier Shah Rukh Khan had also replied to Allu Arjun's post as he wrote, "Thank you so much my man. So kind of you for the love and prayers. And when it comes to swag and 'The Fire' himself praises me...Wow...It has made my day! Feeling Jawan twice all over now! I must admit I must have learnt something from you as I had seen Pushpa thrice in three days! Big hug to u and will come and give u one personally as soon as possible. Keep swagging! Love you."

See Allu Arjun and SRK's social media exchange here:

Thank u so much my man. So kind of you for the love and prayers. And when it comes to swag and ‘The Fire' himself praises me….wow…it has made my day!!! Feeling Jawan twice all over now!!! I must admit I must have learnt something from you as I had seen Pushpa thrice in three… https://t.co/KEH9FAguKs

— Shah Rukh Khan (@iamsrk) September 14, 2023

Recently, Actor Nayanthara was unable to attend the Jawan success press meet. Shah Rukh Khan revealed that because of her mother's birthday, she couldn't make it to the event. “Nayanthara ji is not here because it's her mother's birthday.” He also sang a birthday song for her mother. Nayanthara was unable to attend the Jawan news conference in person, so she sent a video message in her instead.

She said, “Even though I am not there I want to send a big hug to my friends from the media and fans. Actually truly wish I could be there with you all surrounded by incredible people who supported me throughout my journey. But today is also a special occasion for my family so I wanted to spend with them. I have read all your messages and I have to say it is almost overwhelming to receive so much love for Jawan. Your support means the whole world to me and I am extremely grateful for it. I am thankful to my entire co-stars and team for giving me this opportunity.”

On working with SRK she added, “To share the screen with him and witness his exceptional talent and lively energy in person was truly fabulous.”

Nayanthara's Virtual Presence🤩. She expressed her gratitude to everyone❤️@iamsrk #Nayanthara @RedChilliesEnt @Atlee_dir #Jawan #ShahRukhKhan𓀠 #SRK𓀠 pic.twitter.com/PWECZpdpP5

— Shah Rukh Khan Universe Fan Club (@SRKUniverse) September 15, 2023

Helmed by Atlee, Jawan stars Shah Rukh Khan, Nayanthara and Vijay Sethupathi in the lead roles. Actor Deepika Padukone could be seen in a guest appearance role.

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Ajay Devgn, Ranveer Singh Start Filming Singham Again. MIA - Akshay Kumar

The shooting of Singham Again began on Saturday. This is the fifth film of the Singham franchise. On this occasion, director Rohit Shetty, the lead actors of the franchise Ajay Devgn, Ranveer Singh and Akshay Kumar shared posts on their respective Instagram handles. Akshay Kumar gave the event a miss. The director and actors shared identical pictures. In the first picture, we can see Rohit Shetty performing a ritual at the muhurat. Ajay Devgn and Ranveer Singh can be seen standing at the back. The other picture shows Ajay Devgn, Rohit Shetty and Ranveer Singh standing with folded hands. Rohit Shetty wrote in his post, "Singham, Singham returns, Simmba, Sooryavanshi...12 Years ago, when we made Singham, we never thought that it would turn into a Cop Universe! Today, we begin filming Singham Again... the 5th film in our cop franchisee. ISME HUM APNI JAAN LAGA DENGE! BAS AAPKE PYAAR AUR DUA KI ZAROORAT HAI!"

Take a look at the post here:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Rohit Shetty (@itsrohitshetty)

Ajay Devgn, who plays Inspector Bajirao Singham in the fanchise, wrote in his post, "12 years ago, we gave Indian Cinema its biggest cinematic Cop Universe. With all the love we have received over the years, the force got stronger and the Singham family got bigger. Today we come together to take our franchise ahead with Singham Again!" Take a look at the post here:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Ajay Devgn (@ajaydevgn)

Ranveer Singh, who plays Inspector Sangram Bhalerao aka Simmba in the franchise, shared a picture in which he can be seen doing aarti. He wrote in the caption, "Subharamabh. All set to reprise one of my most loved characters from the Rohit Shetty Cop Universe - SIMMBA in #SinghamAgain ! We seek your love and blessings for our new journey." Take a look at the post here:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Ranveer Singh (@ranveersingh)

Akshay Kumar, who plays DCP Veer "Surya" Sooryavanshi, could not attend the muhurat as he is not in the country. He wrote in the caption, "Not in the country at the moment, missing from the frame in person but totally there in spirit. Can't wait to join you guys on the sets of #SinghamAgain! Sending my best wishes. Jai Mahakaal." Take a look at the post here:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Akshay Kumar (@akshaykumar)

Singham released in 2011. It featured Ajay Devgn, Prakash Raj and Kajal Aggarwal in the pivotal roles. Singham Returns released in 2014.  Ajay Devgn, Kareena Kapoor Amole Gupte were seen in the lead roles. Simbaa released in 2018, introducing Ranveer Singh in the franchise. In 2021, Sooryavanshi released and Akshay Kumar joined the cop universe. All the four films were hit at the box office.

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Watch: WWE Superstars Dance To RRR's 'Naatu Naatu' In The Ring

The World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) Superstar Spectacle in Hyderabad last week was a huge success, and fans loved it. The mega event turned out to be a thrilling spectacle brimming with action, drama, acrobatics, and even some surprising dance moves. In addition to the array of tactics and strategies showcased in the complex sport of wrestling, the event's standout moment was undoubtedly witnessing the wrestling superstars groove to the song 'Naatu Naatu' from the movie RRR.

The WWE rings are typically known for their intense and competitive atmosphere, but at this event, it was a rare and delightful sight to see superstars like Drew McIntyre, Jinder Mahal, Sami Zayn, and Kevin Owens let loose and dance to the Oscar-winning song with a joyful spirit.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Epic Wrestling Moments (@epicwrestlingmoments)

The remarkable display of talent and friendship demonstrated by these wrestlers was a visual delight, leaving the audience in a state of awe and sparking considerable excitement and discussion across the internet.

The post featuring this video went viral, amassing approximately 6 million views.

In the comment section, numerous users hailed this performance as a testament to the influence of Indian soft power and the enchantment of Indian cinema's popularity. However, some argued that it might not have been necessary since WWE is renowned for its intense combat, and song and dance may not be suitable for a WWE event.

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Author Gita Mehta, Naveen Patnaik's Sister, Dies At 80

Eminent author and Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik's elder sister Gita Mehta died at her Delhi residence on Saturday due to old age ailments.

She was 80, and is survived by her son. Her publisher husband Sonny Mehta had predeceased her.

An eminent author, documentary filmmaker, and journalist, Gita Mehta was the elder sister of Naveen Patnaik and businessman Prem Patnaik.

Born in 1943 to Biju Patnaik and Gyan Patnaik in Delhi, she studied in India and the University of Cambridge in the United Kingdom.

She has penned books including 'Karma Cola', 'Snake and Ladders', 'A River Sutra', 'Raj' and 'The Eternal Ganesha'.

Mehta, sources said, was very close to her younger brother Naveen Patnaik.

During her earlier visit to Bhubaneswar, she had told reporters that "people of Odisha are fortunate enough to have a chief minister like Naveen Patnaik".

I am saddened by the passing away of noted writer Smt. Gita Mehta Ji. She was a multifaceted personality, known for her intellect and passion towards writing as well as film making. She was also passionate about nature and water conservation. My thoughts are with @Naveen_Odisha…

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 16, 2023

Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled her death, with a post on X: "I am saddened by the passing away of noted writer Smt. Gita Mehta Ji. She was a multifaceted personality, known for her intellect and passion towards writing as well as film making. She was also passionate about nature and water conservation. My thoughts are with @Naveen_Odisha Ji and the entire family in this hour of grief. Om Shanti." Odisha Governor Ganeshi Lal also condoled her death.

He wrote on X: "Saddened to learn about the demise of accomplished English author Gita Mehta, sister of Hon'ble CM Shri @Naveen_Odisha and conveyed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and friends." Many Odisha ministers and eminent persons expressed their condolences over Mehta's demise. 

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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"Should Realise He's A Minister": Nirmala Sitharaman On MK Stalin's Son

On the Sanatana Dharma row, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Saturday said DMK leader Udhayanidhi Stalin should speak realising his responsibility as a state minister.

Despite witnessing insult to Lord Rama in Tamil Nadu in 1971, Sanatana Dharma did not respond with violence, she said.

Speaking to reporters here, the Finance Minister said if Udhayanidhi Stalin expects that there should not be any reaction to his Sanatana comments, then it is wrong.

"The debate on Sanatana was started by Minister Udhayanidhi, belonging to the DMK, a INDIA bloc constituent and did he initiate that debate eyeing the election (2024 Lok Sabha election)?" she wondered.

She was answering a question related to criticism of Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi leader Thol Thirumavalavan that the BJP was indulging in Sanatana debate considering polls. "We did not start the debate, it is you who began it." Everyone has a right and they may express their views. However, after becoming a minister a person should speak keeping in mind his responsibilities, she said.

It is wrong to use words that may incite violence or words that have connotations of violence. Ever since the nation adopted the Constitution following independence, the onus is on avoiding use of language that may instigate violence.

Referring to Udhayanidhi's comment that his party would talk on Sanatana Dharma for a 100 years, she said, "you may talk and only talk." No one may however indulge in violent acts and nobody should speak that could stoke violence, she asserted.

Nirmala Sitharaman said she grew up in a Tamil Nadu where a garland of sandals was flung on Lord Rama's portrait and a procession was taken out. Even now, she said she had anguish about it and recalled that event with pain.

"That is Sanatana Dharma. We did not do anything like an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth," said Nirmala Sitharaman. In case some other religion had been targeted in such a manner, "you know what would have happened," said she. The Sanatana Dharma has "described" atheists, she said, apparently hinting at space for them within the broader framework of the religion and the way of life it stood for. 

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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