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Devendra Fadnavis, Piyush Goyal, Anurag Thakur praise India's T20 WC semifinal win over England

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 04:32:15 GMT

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], March 6 (ANI): Multiple politcal leaders, including Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis, Union Minister Piyush Goyal and Bharatiya Janata Party MP Anurag Thakur lauded Team India's seven-run win over England in a thrilling semifinal of the T20 World Cup 2026, on Thursday at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium.

Defending champions India, captained by Suryakumar Yadav, defeated England by seven run

Short-handed Warriors outlast Rockets in OT

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 03:55:13 GMT

(Photo credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images)

De'Anthony Melton converted a second-chance basket with 5.3 seconds remaining, and the short-handed Golden State Warriors held on for a 115-113 overtime victory over the host Houston Rockets on Thursday.

Melton corralled a missed tip shot by Gui Santos and scored to give the Warriors a 115-112 lead. The Rockets failed to knot the score on the previous possession wh

Virat Kohli's childhood coach Rajkumar Sharma lauds Sanju Samson, Jasprit Bumrah after India's T20 WC semifinal win over England

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 03:32:10 GMT

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], March 6 (ANI): Virat Kohli's childhood coach Rajkumar Sharma hailed Team India's win over England in the T20 World Cup 2026 semifinal on Thursday at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium. He lauded Sanju Samson's fifty and also credited Jasprit Bumrah for breaking England's momentum in the second innings and hailed the Men in Blue's fielding as well.

Defending champions India, led by Suryakumar

"If India continues to perform like this, no one can stop them": Devajit Saikia after Men in Blue's T20 WC semifinal win

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 03:31:40 GMT

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], March 6 (ANI): The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Secretary Devajit Saikia hailed Team India's performance in the T20 World Cup 2026 semifinal win over England at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium on Thursday. He said if the Men in Blue continue to perform like this, no one can stop them from winning the World Cup.

Defending champions India, led by Suryakumar Yadav, defeated En

T20 WC: Harbhajan Singh praises Bumrah, Hardik's bowling in thrilling semifinal win for India

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 02:59:07 GMT

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], March 6 (ANI): Former Indian cricketer Harbhajan Singh hailed Team India's win against England in the T20 World Cup 2026 semifinal on Thursday. He credited the bowling efforts of Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya, but also acknowledged that there could have been a better execution from India's overall bowling group in the match.

India secured a thrilling seven-run victory in a high-sc

T20 World Cup: "Bumrah is arguably the best of all time at the minute," Brook hails Indian pacer after loss in Semis

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 22:30:18 GMT

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], March 6 (ANI): England suffered a seven-run defeat in the semi-final of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 held at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, and the England skipper Harry Brook called Jasprit Bumrah 'the best of all time'.

Speaking about Bumrah during the post-match press conference, England skipper said, 'He's (Bumrah) a very good bowler, arguably the best of all time at the min

T20 World Cup: Records tumble in Mumbai as India beat England to enter final

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 21:30:25 GMT

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], March 6 (ANI): India pulled off a close victory over England in the semi-final clash of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 at the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Thursday and entered the final for the second consecutive time.

It was a run-fest in Mumbai as India won the match by just seven runs despite making 253 runs while batting first. An aggregate of 499 runs was recorded in t

"Phenomenal player, will have one hell of a career for England": Brook on centurion Bethell after Wankhede T20WC thriller

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 21:30:20 GMT

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], March 6 (ANI): Following his side's loss to India in the semifinal of the T20 World Cup, England skipper Harry Brook hailed young batting all-rounder Jacob Bethell's fighting century, calling it a 'phenomenal' effort and adding that he should be proud of his heroics over last few months, including a lone-warrior 154 at Sydney against Australia in the final Ashes Test.

Bethell's stoc

"India will bring the trophy home": BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 21:30:14 GMT

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], March 6 (ANI): Devajit Saikia, Secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), expressed confidence that the Indian team will clinch the ICC Men's T20 World Cup title, saying the side is well placed to repeat its historic success in Barbados in 2024.

'India will bring the trophy home. We need to win this. We want to repeat the performance of Barbados in Ahmedabad. I th

"One more match, then I'll feel light": Samson speaks on self-doubt, form loss, after valiant 89 in T20WC semifinal

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 21:30:07 GMT

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [IndIa], March 6 (ANI): Following his India's win over England in the T20 World Cup semifinal on Thursday night, opener Sanju Samson, who yet again impressed with a fine 89 in 42 balls, after an unbeaten 97* against West Indies at Kolkata, spoke on battling self-doubt due being demoted in batting order, losing his form and eventally getting dropped. He also added that after winning the title, he wi

"He's also trying to find a way out, we all are with him": Sanju Samson on Abhishek Sharma's form

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 21:30:00 GMT

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], March 6 (ANI): India entered the final of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 after defeating England by seven runs in the semi-final held at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Thursday, and the Player of the Match, Sanju Samson, made sure to cheer up the struggling batter Abhishek Sharma.

With 89 runs in seven innings in this tournament, including a half-century against Zimbabwe, Abhish

"We will win this cup here in India": IPL Chairman Arun Dhumal after semi-final win over England

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 20:58:08 GMT

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], March 6 (ANI): India defeated England by seven runs in the semi-final match of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Thursday, and the former Indian women's cricketer Diana Edulji and IPL Chairman Arun Singh Dhumal congratulated the Men In Blue.

Speaking to ANI after the match, the former Indian cricketer Diana Edulji said, 'It was a very good victory.

T20 WC: Varun Chakaravarthy registers unwanted bowling record against England

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 20:57:54 GMT

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], March 6 (ANI): India entered the final of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 after defeating England by seven runs in the semi-final held at the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Thursday, and the Indian spinner Varun Chakaravarthy recorded an unwanted record during the match.

Chakaravarthy conceded 64 runs and took only one wicket while India defended a mammoth total of 253 runs. I

T20 WC: Bethell proves his mettle yet again on big stages, becomes England's 4th all-format centurion

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 20:57:49 GMT

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], March 6 (ANI): England all-rounder Jacob Bethell continued to prove his mettle at big stages with a scintillating, lone warrior century against India in a hard-fought semifinal at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium on Thursday, which the Three Lions lost by seven runs. He also became the fourth all-format centurion for England in international cricket.

Almost a couple of months after a simil

T20WC: Suryakumar hails Bumrah's "special bowling performance", Sanju's knock as India trounce England in semifinal

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 20:57:40 GMT

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], March 6 (ANI): Following his side's nail-biting win over England in the semifinal of the ICC T20 World Cup, Indian skipper Suryakumar Yadav hailed Sanju Samson's scintillating knock and Jasprit Bumrah's four-over spell of just 33 runs and a wicket in such a high-scoring match. He also spoke on the nerves while defending 254 runs and heading into the final at Ahmedabad against New Zealand.

T20 WC: Team India survive Bethell scare; book title clash against NZ following nail-biting 7 run win at Wankhede

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 20:32:28 GMT

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], March 5 (ANI): A stunning counter-attacking century from Jacob Bethell went in vain as Team India beat a valiant England by seven runs in a nail-biting semifinal of the ICC T20 World Cup at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium on Thursday, booking India's spot in the title clash against New Zealand at Ahmedabad, scheduled for Sunday.

Put to bat first, a fiery knock from Sanju Samson (89* in 42

T20 WC Semi-final: Anil Kapoor applauds Sanju Samson as India faces England; Varun Dhawan, Rohit Sharma, MS Dhoni also spotted

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 20:31:23 GMT

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], March 5 (ANI): As India faces England in the high-octane semi-final of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup, the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai has not only turned into a battleground for high drama on the field but also a star-studded spectacle off it.

Actor Anil Kapoor, who was spotted in the stands, was seen standing and applauding as Sanju Samson unleashed a series of powerful shots. Samson

"Super Chetta": Gaikwad reacts to Samson's sensational semi-final knock in T20 WC

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 20:31:00 GMT

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], March 5 (ANI): Sanju Samson played another blistering knock for India in the semi-final of the ongoing ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, and his Chennai Super Kings skipper, Ruturaj Gaikwad, expressed his emotions with a video.

In a video shared by the Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise CSK on X, Gaikwad was seen coming out of practice nets when someone showed him the score of Sanju S

Adil Rashid becomes joint-second-highest wicket-taker in T20 World Cup

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 20:30:26 GMT

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], March 5 (ANI): English spinner Adil Rashid became the joint-second most wicket-taker in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup after taking a couple of wickets in the semi-final match against India at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Thursday.

The 38-year-old spinner achieved this feat during the 16th over, when he dismissed the Indian skipper Suryakumar Yadav with a stump by wicketkeeper Jos

"Lesson for alot of openers": Cricket fraternity hails Samson's masterclass against England in T20WC semis

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 20:30:15 GMT

New Delhi [India], March 5 (ANI): The cricket fraternity hailed Sanju Samson's incredible knock of 89 against England in the semifinal of the ICC T20 World Cup at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium on Thursday.

Following a brilliant 97* in 50 balls against West Indies at Kolkata during the virtual quarterfinal clash during the Super Eights, Samson reserved some more brutality for two-time champions, smashing their attack

T20 World Cup semi-final: Alia Bhatt, Ranbir Kapoor, with daughter Raha spotted rooting for Men in Blue, pics go viral

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 20:29:59 GMT

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], March 5 (ANI): What better way to soak in a World Cup semi-final than cheering from the stands with family?

As India faces England in a high-voltage ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 semi-final at Mumbai's iconic Wankhede Stadium, the match turned into a star-studded affair, with Bollywood couple Alia Bhatt and Ranbir Kapoor stepping out to support Team India, accompanied by their little

T20WC: Samson levels with Virat Kohli, races past Rohit with stroke-filled knock in semifinal

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 20:29:46 GMT

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], March 5 (ANI): Indian batter Sanju Samson played a statement knock against England in the semifinal of the T20 World Cup at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium, equalling batting icon Virat Kohli's record for most runs by an Indian in a T20 World Cup knockout.

Brimming with confidence and authority after a masterclass 97* against West Indies in the final Super Eight clash, a virtual knockout

T20 World Cup: Samson powers India to biggest total in a knockout match

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 20:05:35 GMT

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], March 5 (ANI): Sanju Samson's blistering knock of 89 runs off just 42 balls helped India set a big target of 254 runs for England in the semi-final of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 at the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Thursday.

This score stands as the highest-ever total in a T20 World Cup knockout match, surpassing the previous record of 205/4 held by the West Indies Vs Au

"Really important match": BCCI Vice-President Rajeev Shukla on India-England semi-final clash

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 20:02:50 GMT

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], March 5 (ANI): Defending champion India are facing England in a crucial ICC semi-final at Wankhede Stadium this evening, with the winner advancing to the final against New Zealand on March 8 in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.

Expressing his optimism, BCCI Vice-President Rajeev Shukla told ANI, 'This is a really important match, and we should definitely win. I am very hopeful that our team will w

Abhishek Sharma poor T20WC run continues, falls to offspin for third time

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 20:02:44 GMT

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], March 5 (ANI): Indian opener Abhishek Sharma continued his poor run against off-spin in the ongoing T20 World Cup as he yet again had a poor outing against England in the semifinal at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium on Thursday.

Abhishek looked promising in the start, getting two boundaries against Will Jacks. The spinner and England's star performer in this tournament had the last laugh

"Batting first at Wankhede not a bad idea": Kaif on India losing toss in T20WC semifinal against England

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 20:02:05 GMT

New Delhi [India], March 5 (ANI): After India lost the toss during the T20 World Cup semi-final against England, former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif said that 'batting first at Wankhede is not a bad idea', pointing out how England lost to WI while chasing 196 and putting a big score batting first could be an advantage.

Team India batting first in the semi-final clash against England in the ongoing ICC Men's T2

T20 World Cup: England win toss, puts India to bat first in Mumbai semi-final

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 19:00:11 GMT

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], March 5 (ANI): Team India is set to bat first in the semi-final clash against England in the ongoing ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 at the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Thursday.

The winner of the match will advance to the final to face New Zealand on March 8 in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.

England made one change in their playing XI, replacing spinner Rehan Ahmed with pacer Jamie

"Enter the final and win final as well, that's my wish": Kapil Dev ahead of India-England semi-final clash

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 18:59:58 GMT

Greater Noida (Uttar Pradesh) [India], March 5 (ANI): Former legendary cricketer Kapil Dev wished the Indian cricket team 'Good Luck' as they are set to clash with England in the second semi-final of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 at the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Thursday, where the Men in Blue are looking to defend their title.

Speaking to the media in Greater Noida, the 1983 World-Cup winning capta

T20 WC: India and England arrive at Wankhede Stadium ahead of semi-final

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 18:59:35 GMT

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], March 5 (ANI): Defending champions India and the two-time champions England have arrived at the Wankhede Stadium ahead of their ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 semi-final clash on Thursday.

The winner of the match will advance to the final to face New Zealand on March 8 in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.

England's squad, led by their captain, arrived with a clear strategy to counter India's

Sri Lanka Cricket appoints Jamie Siddons as new head coach of women's team

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 18:33:13 GMT

Colombo [Sri Lanka], March 5 (ANI): Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) on Thursday announced the appointment of former Australian cricketer Jamie Siddons as the new head coach of the national women's cricket team.

Siddons will take over from outgoing coach Rumesh Ratnayake, who had quietly concluded his tenure at the end of 2025.

Appointed in February 2023, Ratnayake played a key role in transforming the Sri Lankan wo

T20 WC: Faf du Plessis stresses on powerplay control after South Africa's exit in semi-final

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 13:31:17 GMT

New Delhi [India], March 5 (ANI): Former South Africa captain Faf du Plessis said that the outcome of a T20 match is often shaped in the opening overs, stressing that teams that lose the powerplay frequently struggle to recover.

New Zealand outplayed South Africa and registered a dominating win by nine wickets. The Black Caps chase down the target of 170 in 12.5 overs in the first semi-final of the ICC Men's T20

"We muck in as a unit": Rachin Ravindra after New Zealand qualify for T20 WC final

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 11:32:21 GMT

Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], March 5 (ANI): New Zealand cricketer Rachin Ravindra has credited the Black Caps' planning and experience for their strong campaign in the ongoing ICC Men's T20 World Cup.

Speaking on JioHotstar, Ravindra said he focuses on making it difficult for the batters through variations.

'We respect South Africa's power, shown consistently in T20s. My focus with the ball is making it

T20 WC: Pujara explains India's plan for Brook ahead of semi-final

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 11:32:15 GMT

New Delhi [India], March 5 (ANI): Former India cricketer Cheteshwar Pujara believes England captain Harry Brook will pose a major challenge for Men in Blue bowlers in the high-stakes semi-final at the ICC Men's T20 World Cup at the Wankhede Stadium on Thursday.

The former Indian batter has suggested that the Suryakumar Yadav-led side must target the stumps consistently to restrict Brook's scoring options.

Records, heartbreaks, resets, redemption: A history of India-England T20WC clashes

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 10:00:14 GMT

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], March 5 (ANI): Team India will clash with England for a spot in the ICC T20 World Cup final against New Zealand at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium, making this the third successive time they are meeting each other in semis.

A defeat at Adelaide back in 2022 caused Men in Blue to rethink their white-ball template and paved the way for young talent, while a win at Providence two years later

"May the best team win": British High Commission in India ahead of IND vs ENG T20 WC 2026 semifinal

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 08:01:39 GMT

New Delhi [India], March 5 (ANI): The British High Commission in India highlighted the excitement ahead of the upcoming India vs England T20 World Cup 2026 semifinal on Thursday at the Wankhede Stadium, celebrating the shared passion for cricket and wishing the best team to win.

https://x.com/UKinIndia/status/2029436624795516929

In an X post,

Prayagraj: Locals pray for Team India's win in T20 WC 2026 semifinal against England

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 07:01:35 GMT

Prayagraj (Uttar Pradesh) [India], March 5 (ANI): Locals in Prayagraj offered prayers for team India's victory in the T20 World Cup 2026 semifinals clash against England at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium on Thursday.

Supporters of the Indian team in Prayagraj performed devotional chants and offered prayers to various deities, especially Lord Shiva, while expressing patriotic fervour for India. They also recited mantra

Matt Henry calls New Zealand's bowling effort against South Africa "brilliant" in T20 WC semifinal

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 04:31:53 GMT

Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], March 5 (ANI): New Zealand pacer Matt Henry acknowledged that the Blackcaps (New Zealand national cricket team) delivered a brilliant performance with the ball against South Africa in the first semifinal of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026 at Kolkata's Eden Gardens.

On Wednesday New Zealand sealed the final berth of the T20 WC by demolishing South Africa, who were unbeaten until yeste

Rockets look to clean up mistakes against Warriors

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 00:19:06 GMT

(Photo credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images)

With the final weeks of the regular season at hand and the Houston Rockets locked in a tight race for the third seed in the West, the mistakes that have plagued them all season must be mitigated if the Rockets are to fend off the Minnesota Timberwolves and Denver Nuggets.

The Rockets claimed a 123-118 victory over the Washington Wizards on Monday in a contest that wa

"Finished it before we could settle in": Sachin hails Allen's record ton in T20WC semifinal

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 20:57:49 GMT

New Delhi [India], March 5 (ANI): Indian batting legend Sachin Tendulkar hailed New Zealand opener Finn Allen's record-breaking century in the T20 World Cup semifinal, lauding him for 'finishing' before fans 'could settle in'.

Allen etched his name in history with a 33-ball ton, the fastest across the T20 and 50-over WCs, booking NZ's spot in the final by making light work of a 170-run chase at Kolkata's Eden Gar

T20 WC: SA coach terms loss as "bloody walloping"; centurion Allen says NZ ready for "anyone" in final

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 20:29:43 GMT

Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], March 5 (ANI): Following his side's loss to New Zealand in the T20 World Cup semifinal, South Africa coach Shukri Conrad termed the defeat as 'bloody walloping', while Blackcaps' centurion Finn Allen expressed readiness for whoever meets them at the final on Sunday, be it India or England.

A record-breaking century by Allen in just 33 balls, the fastest across T20 and 50-over World

"Today, we were good all the way through": Santner hails NZ's win over SA in T20WC semifinal

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 19:57:39 GMT

Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], March 5 (ANI): Following New Zealand's thumping nine-wicket win over South Africa in the semifinal of the ICC T20 World Cup, skipper Mitchell Santner said that putting such a brilliant performance in the crunch game against an unbeaten Proteas side was 'pretty pleasing.'

Finn Allen's historic 33-ball century and fine bowling from New Zealand helped them seal their spot in the T20 W

T20 WC: South Africa captain Aiden Markram Hails Allen-Seifert blitz after semi-final exit

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 19:33:39 GMT

Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], March 4 (ANI): South Africa skipper Aiden Markram credited New Zealand's explosive opening pair for taking the game away from his side in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup semi-final, admitting that a special innings from Finn Allen left the Proteas with little room to recover.

Speaking during the post-match presentation after South Africa's nine-wicket defeat at Eden Gardens, Markram ack

Allen's cyclone 'Finn-ishes' Proteas T20WC run, NZ opener slams fastest century across 20 and 50-over World Cups

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 19:33:34 GMT

Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], March 4 (ANI): New Zealand batter Finn Allen made history, smashing the fastest century in the World Cup history across both 20 and 50 over formats, overtaking West Indies' icon Chris Gayle's record in the T20 World Cup with a cyclone of a knock against South Africa at Kolkata's Eden Gardens on Wednesday.

During a run-chase of 170 runs, Kiwi openers Tim Seifert (58 in 33 balls, wit

"Pretty up there": Allen rates his historic ton vs SA in T20WC semi-final

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 19:33:13 GMT

Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], March 4 (ANI): New Zealand opener Finn Allen expressed satisfaction after delivering one of his finest performances in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup history, saying his focus was on putting the team in a strong position and building momentum.

A historic century by Finn Allen, the fastest in T20 World Cup history, took New Zealand to the final of the ongoing T20 World Cup, stopping Sou

Allen produces fastest ton in T20WC history; guides NZ to final with nine-wicket win over SA

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 19:32:04 GMT

Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], March 4 (ANI): A historic century by Finn Allen, the fastest in T20 World Cup history, took New Zealand to the final of the ongoing T20 World Cup, stopping South Africa's unbeaten run by nine wickets at Eden Gardens in Kolkata on Wednesday.

With this win, NZ has sealed their final spot and will play either India or England, who will clash on Thursday at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium on

Rashid closes in on Darren Gough: England's ace spinner eyes historic milestone vs India

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 18:01:07 GMT

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], March 4 (ANI): England's veteran spinner Adil Rashid is on the verge of creating history. Rashid is just four scalps away from surpassing legendary speedster Darren Gough to become fourth highest wicket taker for England across all formats.

Rashid currently has 463 wickets in 324 fixtures at an average of 29.6 across all formats for the Three Lions, including 4 five-wicket hauls, wh

T20 WC: Jansen's fantastic 55* helps South Africa post 169/8 vs New Zealand in semi-final

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 17:01:53 GMT

Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], March 4 (ANI): South Africa managed to post a competitive 169/8 in their 20 overs against New Zealand in a thrilling ICC Men's T20 World Cup semi-final clash, despite a shaky start that saw them lose early wickets.

Key contributions from Marco Jansen and timely breakthroughs by New Zealand bowlers kept the contest evenly poised throughout the innings at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata

"Definitely not unbeatable": Harry Brook shrugs off idea of England being undefeatable ahead of T20 WC semi-final clash against India

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 17:01:14 GMT

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], March 4 (ANI): England skipper Harry Brook shrugged off the idea of the Three Lions being unbeatable but acknowledged their wins have given them huge confidence, especially in tight situations.

India will face two-time winners England in the second semi-final of the T20 World Cup at the iconic Wankhede Stadium on Thursday.

Brook, heading into the high-voltage clash, expressed

T20WC: Will Jos Buttler deliver a big knock at Wankhede against India in semifinals?

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 17:01:00 GMT

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], March 4 (ANI): All eyes will be on England's white-ball legend Jos Buttler when he takes on India during the T20 World Cup semifinal against India to finally overcome his lean patch with the bat and produce the fireworks that have placed him amongst the greatest to play limited-overs cricket.

Buttler has looked a shadow of himself during the ongoing T20 World Cup, managing just 62 r

2026 Formula 1 season preview

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 16:15:19 GMT

A sweeping regulation overhaul, new manufacturers and an expanded grid promise one of the most unpredictable Formula 1 seasons in years. As the championship enters a new era, Xinhua examines the prospects of all 11 teams ahead of the 2026 campaign.

by F1 correspondent Michael Butterworth

BEIJING, March 4 (Xinhua) -- Formula 1 begins a new chapter in 2026 with one of the biggest regulatory r

T20 WC: New Zealand win toss; opts to field vs South Africa in semi-final

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 15:32:31 GMT

Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], March 4 (ANI): New Zealand has won the toss and decided to field against the unbeaten South Africa in the first semi-final of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup on Wednesday.

The high-stakes encounter is being held at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata.

In the history of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup, South Africa has had the upper hand against New Zealand. The Proteas have clinched vi

Will 'Mitchell-Mania' be unleashed during NZ-SA T20 World Cup semifinal?

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 15:32:20 GMT

Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], March 4 (ANI): In order to break their T20 World Cup duck against South Africa, New Zealand batter Daryl Mitchell, who has been sensational for the Kiwis in knockout matches at the ICC events, will be an extremely crucial player for his side.

Mitchell will be instrumental in making sure that after five losses to Proteas in the T20 World Cup, his side comes on the victorious side wh

UAE President receives phone call from Prime Minister of New Zealand on regional developments

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 14:03:51 GMT

ABU DHABI, 4th March, 2026 (WAM) -- UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan today received a phone call from The Right Honourable Christopher Luxon, Prime Minister of New Zealand, who condemned the blatant Iranian attacks targeting the UAE and other countries in the region, stressing that they constitute a violation of international law and the UN Charter.

Prime Minister Luxon affirmed New Z

"Both you fossils....": Karthik hilariously roasts Nasser, Atherton over older remarks on India's alleged Dubai advantage during CT 2025

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 14:01:18 GMT

London [UK], March 4 (ANI): Former Indian cricketer Dinesh Karthik brutally roasted ex-England cricketers Michael Atherton and Nasser Hussain for their earlier remarks on India allegedly having an advantage of playing at a single venue during the ICC Champions Trophy last year following Pakistan's exit from the T20 World Cup this year, which saw them play all their matches in Sri Lanka.

Karthik, Hussain and Athe

"I looked at Jasprit Bumrah bowling replays": Marco Jansen

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 10:33:16 GMT

New Delhi [India], March 4 (ANI): South Africa's speedster Marco Jansen revealed he tried to replicate India's ace Jasprit Bumrah's bowling technique after watching his replays from the first Test match in Kolkata last year.

Jansen said he tried Bumrah's bowling technique in the warm-up games of the ongoing T20 World Cup and felt the ball was actually moving off the wicket with quick and sharp movement of the pi

Bavuma "puts his money" on struggling Rabada to deliver something special ahead of T20WC semifinal

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 09:00:23 GMT

By Sahil Kohli

New Delhi [India], March 4 (ANI): South Africa's World Test Championship-winning skipper Temba Bavuma has backed pace spearhead Kagiso Rabada to deliver an impactful performance ahead of the semifinal clash of the T20 World Cup against New Zealand at Kolkata's Eden Gardens on Wednesday.

Bavuma spoke to ANI on the sidelines of the Proteas' final Super Eight clash against Zimbabwe at Arun Jaitl

ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 breaks viewership records, crosses 500 million viewers in India

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 08:32:10 GMT

New Delhi [India], March 4 (ANI): The International Cricket Council (ICC) chairman, Jay Shah, highlighted the record-breaking viewership of the ongoing ICC T20 World Cup 2026 in India, which exceeded 500 million, the highest ever for any T20 World Cup.

Jay Shah also noted that concurrent viewers on JioHotstar peaked at 60.5 million. With the tournament's knockout stage starting, he expressed hope that the strong

Clippers' Bennedict Mathurin out to excel vs. Pacers, his former club

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 23:55:23 GMT

(Photo credit: D. Ross Cameron-Imagn Images)

The Los Angeles Clippers' revamped backcourt will be in complete focus Tuesday when it matches up against the Indiana Pacers at Inglewood, Calif.The Clippers not only will have Bennedict Mathurin face off against the team that traded him last month, they also will have Darius Garland, who made his debut with the team during a 114-101 comeback victory against the Golden

SA skipper Markram speaks on conscious decision to open the batting ahead of T20WC semifinal against NZ

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 18:33:08 GMT

Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], March 3 (ANI): Ahead of his side's T20 World Cup semifinal clash against New Zealand, South African skipper Aiden Markram spoke on his conscious decision to switch to being an opener in the T20I format, saying that his focus is not on 'massive numbers', but trying to win the first six overs of the innings, the powerplay phase.

Unbeaten Proteas will be aiming to make it to their sec

"He'll have a little run around in the morning": Santner offers update on Henry ahead of NZ-SA T20 WC semifinal

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 16:33:09 GMT

Ahmedabad (Gujarat) [India], March 3 (ANI): Ahead of his side's T20 World Cup semifinal clash against South Africa, New Zealand skipper Mitchell Santner offered an update on pacer Matt Henry, who had to travel back home for the birth of his child.

At Ahmedabad's Narendra Modi Stadium, it will be a mouth-watering battle between South Africa and New Zealand, two sides without a World Cup title to their name in the

Merwe's merry, Steyn-Duminy masterclass and Majestic Markram: History of SA's unbeaten run against NZ in T20WC

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 15:33:41 GMT

Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], March 3 (ANI): The iconic Eden Gardens at Kolkata could become the witness to another classic T20 World Cup contest between South Africa and New Zealand, a rivalry which has been marked by some extremely close finishes, memorable knocks and clutch spells in the history of this tournament.

Either South Africa or New Zealand will get another shot at their maiden T20 World Cup title w

Alana King, Smriti Mandhana top latest Women's ODI rankings

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 14:33:02 GMT

New Delhi [India], March 3 (ANI): Australia's leg-spinner Alana King and India's opener Smriti Mandhana have risen to the top of the ICC Women's ODI Bowling and Batting Rankings, respectively, in the latest update on Tuesday.

The Australian leg-spinner King ended England spinner Sophie Ecclestone's near four-year reign as the No.1 ODI bowler after taking seven wickets at an average of 16.71 across three ODIs agai

Will Proteas icon David Miller continue his brilliant ICC event knockout match run at Kolkata?

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 14:31:57 GMT

Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], March 3 (ANI): South African batter David Miller will be aiming to continue his brilliant run in ICC events' knockout matches when they take to the field at iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata for the ICC T20 World Cup semifinal against New Zealand.

South Africa and New Zealand, two excellent white-ball sides who are yet to win a World Cup event, be it the 20-over or the 50-over, will g

Bella James replaces Georgia Plimmer in New Zealand women's squad for Zimbabwe ODI series

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 10:00:11 GMT

Dunedin [New Zealand], March 3 (ANI): New Zealand batter Georgia Plimmer has been ruled out of the upcoming home ODI series against Zimbabwe women after sustaining a shoulder injury during the T20I series between the two sides.

Plimmer's absence comes as a blow to the White Ferns' top order, where her experience and energy have been highly valued by the team.

According to ICC, Plimmer will be replaced by fe

ICC announces match officials for T20 World Cup 2026 semi-finals

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 09:01:42 GMT

Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], March 3 (ANI): The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced the match officials for the knockout stage of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 as the tournament heads into its semi-final stage. Top referees and umpires from the Emirates ICC Elite Panel will oversee the high-stakes clashes, ensuring fair play and smooth conduct in two key fixtures.

The first semi-final between S

NBA roundup: Giannis Antetokounmpo returns but Bucks fall to Celtics

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 06:40:39 GMT

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Giannis Antetokounmpo returned to the court after missing 15 games with a strained right calf, but his Milwaukee Bucks fell 108-81 to the visiting Boston Celtics on Monday night.

Payton Pritchard had a team-high 25 points and nine assists for the Celtics, who received 18 points and 16 rebounds, both career highs, from rookie Hugo Gonzalez. Derrick White added 18

Kawhi Leonard nets 23 as Clippers rally from 17 down to beat Warriors

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 06:05:14 GMT

(Photo credit: D. Ross Cameron-Imagn Images)

Kawhi Leonard squeezed a game-high 23 points into 29 minutes, five teammates chipped in with double-figure scoring and the Los Angeles Clippers overcame a 17-point deficit to thump the Golden State Warriors 114-101 on Monday night in San Francisco.

Coming off the bench in his Clippers debut, Darius Garland contributed 12 points to the win, which moved Los Angeles

"Just like in T20 cricket with fast decisions...India-Canada will shape future together": PM Modi

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 13:32:28 GMT

New Delhi [India], March 2 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday, while addressing the India-Canada CEOs Forum, drew parallels between T20 cricket and business partnerships between the two nations.

PM Modi praised Canada's ICC Men's T20 World Cup participation and emphasised India's readiness for fast-paced, fearless collaborations with Canada to drive mutual growth, inviting CEOs to join India's develop

Sanju Samson should consistently play for India in white-ball format, says Sourav Ganguly

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 10:32:13 GMT

Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], March 2 (ANI): Former Indian cricket team captain and current president of the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB), Sourav Ganguly, called Sanju Samson's match-winning 97*-run innings 'outstanding' and hailed him as a 'very good player' after the wicket-keeper batter helped Team India reach the semis of the T20 World Cup 2026 by defeating West Indies in a must-win Super 8s clash.

"Switched off my phone, social media": Samson on overcoming his lean patch with match-winning 97* against West Indies

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 09:00:57 GMT

Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], March 2 (ANI): Sanju Samson revealed that he switched off his phone, social media and 'did some soul-searching' to put his lean patch behind him, following his match-winning 97* against West Indies in a do-or-die T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8s clash on Sunday, to help Team India secure a semifinal berth in the tournament.

Sanju Samson scored an unbeaten 97 off 50 balls, helping India c

Clippers, Warriors battle injuries, each other for playoff contention

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 08:40:24 GMT

(Photo credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images)

Two teams battling for NBA play-in positioning and a leg up on what could turn into a critical tiebreaker go head-to-head Monday night when the Los Angeles Clippers and Golden State Warriors duel in San Francisco.

The clubs split a pair of earlier meetings, each winning on its home court. More than two months after the Warriors dominated an October contest, winning 9

"He's a quality player": Shai Hope praises Sanju Samson after match-winning knock against West Indies

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 05:59:32 GMT

Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], March 2 (ANI): West Indies captain Shai Hope lauded India's Sanju Samson after his match-winning innings guided India to a five-wicket victory over West Indies in a Super 8s knockout clash of the T20 World Cup 2026 at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, on Sunday, sealing their place in the semifinals.

Sanju Samson scored an unbeaten 97 off 50 balls, helping India chase down a competitive 196-ru

Warriors star Steph Curry out at least 5 more games with knee injury

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 02:40:36 GMT

(Photo credit: David Gonzales-Imagn Images)

The Golden State Warriors on Sunday said Stephen Curry will miss the next five games before his right knee injury is re-evaluated.

Curry, who hasn't played since Jan. 30, is officially out for Monday's home game against the Los Angeles Clippers with 'right patellofemoral pain syndrome,' also called 'runner's knee.' It's an overuse condition that is marked by pain

Tyler Reddick prevails at COTA; first driver to win first 3 Cup Series races

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 00:19:05 GMT

(Photo credit: Michael C. Johnson-Imagn Images)

Tyler Reddick stormed away from Shane van Gisbergen in a 17-lap dash and made NASCAR history Sunday with his third straight win, taking the checkers at the DuraMax Texas Grand Prix at the Circuit of the Americas road course in Austin, Texas.

The 30-year-old Reddick became the first driver in the 78-year history of the NASCAR Cup Series to be victorious in the

"He is a world-class player, and it was all about backing him": Indian head coach Gambhir speaks on Samson's masterclass 97* against West Indies

Sun, 01 Mar 2026 21:30:08 GMT

Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], March 2 (ANI): Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir hailed Sanju Samson's match-winning performance against West Indies at Kolkata's Eden Gardens, saying he showed his true potential when the team needed him most.

Gambhir emphasised that Samson is a world-class player who deserved backing, and this win could be a turning point for him. Samson's majestic 97* single-handedly led Team Ind

"Will take a special effort to beat England": Gambhir on India's T20WC semifinal clash at Wankhede

Sun, 01 Mar 2026 21:29:54 GMT

Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], March 2 (ANI): Following his side's semifinal qualification in T20 World Cup after win over West Indies in must-win Super Eight clash, Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir spoke on challenge of facing England in semifinal clash at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium, pointing out that England is a world-class team and it would need a 'special effort' to beat them.

Team India on Sunday sealed the

Uttarakhand: Three-day Vasantotsav concludes at Lok Bhawan in Dehradun

Sun, 01 Mar 2026 18:01:34 GMT

Dehradun (Uttarakhand) [India], March 1 (ANI): The three-day Vasantotsav concluded on Sunday at Lok Bhawan in Dehradun. Over the course of the festival, a large number of visitors enjoyed the natural beauty of flowers along with various cultural and competitive events.

This year, IIT Roorkee secured first place by winning awards in 13 categories, while ONGC secured second place with awards in four categories. A t

"Our bowlers, fielders really stepped up today": Aiden Markram speaks on Proteas victory over Zimbabwe in Super 8 T20 WC clash

Sun, 01 Mar 2026 18:00:19 GMT

New Delhi [India], March 1 (ANI): South Africa skipper Aiden Markram praised his team's win against Zimbabwe in their last Super 8 fixture of the ongoing T20 World Cup, highlighting the bowlers' and fielders' efforts.

Put in to bat first, Zimbabwe posted a moderate target of 155. While chasing, Proteas openers failed to score as skipper Markram was sent back to the pavilion for just four, while Quinton de Kock d

Lakers, with stars back together, take on lowly Kings

Sun, 01 Mar 2026 15:05:04 GMT

(Photo credit: David Gonzales-Imagn Images)

After closing out February by putting an emphatic end to a three-game losing streak, the Los Angeles Lakers will leap into March with a visit from the Sacramento Kings on Sunday.

The Lakers earned a 129-101 victory over the Golden State Warriors on Saturday that was not diminished in the slightest, even as their opponent was without star Stephen Curry.

Luka

Cricket West Indies announces Women's white-ball series vs Australia

Sun, 01 Mar 2026 13:04:13 GMT

Saint John's [Antigua and Barbuda], March 1 (ANI): Cricket West Indies (CWI) has confirmed that the West Indies Women will host Australia Women in a thrilling six-match white-ball series across St Vincent and the Grenadines and St. Kitts and Nevis in March and April, according to a release.

The initial schedule for the trip was to include West Indies' first Test since 2004, and only their second since 1979, but t

T20 WC 2026: Zimbabwe win toss, opts to bat first against South Africa

Sun, 01 Mar 2026 10:32:38 GMT

New Delhi [India], March 1 (ANI): Zimbabwe captain Sikandar Raza won the toss and opted to bat first against South Africa in both teams' last Super 8s match of the ongoing ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, at the Arun Jatley Stadium in Delhi on Sunday.

While South Africa arrive in the clash unbeaten in the tournament, Zimbabwe are yet to win a match in the Super 8s after their impressive run in the group-stage of the

(SP)U.S.-SAN FRANCISCO-BASKETBALL-NBA-LAKERS VS WARRIORS

Sun, 01 Mar 2026 08:15:22 GMT

(260301) -- SAN FRANCISCO, March 1, 2026 (Xinhua) -- Luka Doncic (R) of Los Angeles Lakers shoots during the 2025-2026 NBA regular season basketball game between Los Angeles Lakers and Golden State Warriors in San Francisco, the United States, Feb. 28, 2026. (Photo by Dong Xudong/Xinhua)

NBA roundup: Luka Doncic's birthday gift is a Lakers victory

Sun, 01 Mar 2026 05:55:11 GMT

(Photo credit: David Gonzales-Imagn Images)

Luka Doncic celebrated his 27th birthday with 26 points, eight assists and six rebounds to lead the Los Angeles Lakers to a 129-101 rout of the Golden State Warriors on Saturday in San Francisco.

Los Angeles came into the Bay Area on a three-game losing skid but rebounded emphatically. The Lakers surrendered the game's first two points, then went on to score the n

Pauline Hanson corrects her immigration arithmetic

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 01:00:00 GMT

Pauline Hansons revised immigration maths may finally add up, but the economic consequences of her policy would be devastating, writes Dr Abul Rizvi.

ACCORDING TOThe Noticer(a new far-right media outlet that tries to compete with Sky After Dark), SenatorPauline Hansonhas revised the arithmetic on her immigration policy. She may now be comparing like with like, which is a huge positive in trying to understand her

Ravens Hire World-Renowned Health and Performance Coach Dr. Nic Gill

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 20:01:11 GMT

Ryan Mink

The Ravens are aiming to take player performance to a new level with the hiring of world-renowned health and performance coach Dr. Nic Gill.

Dr. Gill ("Gilly") steps into a newly created position as the vice president of health and performance, in which he will lead integrated efforts across the strength and conditioning, medical, nutrition, and sports science teams.

Widely regarded as one o

English doesn't need protecting in New Zealand - but other languages do

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 18:22:42 GMT

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Anyone tuning into political debates about the recently introduced English Language Bill might be led to think New Zealand's most widel

In Trump's precarious world, NZ will need all the middle-sized friends it can get

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 16:47:04 GMT

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When a local political commentator recently suggested (partly tongue-in-cheek) that New Zealand might respond to US President Donald Trump's new world order by becoming the seventh st

New modelling shows renewable electricity can meet NZ's future demand - without importing gas

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 13:39:02 GMT

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The government's plan to import liquefied natural gas (LNG) has raised questions about whether this is the best approach to strengthening New Zealand's energy security, not least because the Share article

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In an increasingly uncertain world, where the global balance of power is tilting toward Asia, a comprehensive free trade agreement (FTA) with India promises access to a booming market and "southern anchor of stability

New Zealand exports up 1.3 bln USD in Q4 on dairy, meat, tourism gains

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 09:15:11 GMT

WELLINGTON, March 4 (Xinhua) -- New Zealand's exports rose by 2.2 billion NZ dollars (1.3 billion U.S. dollars) in the December 2025 quarter, driven by strong performances in dairy, meat and tourism sectors, its top trade official said Wednesday.

Total exports reached 29.2 billion NZ dollars (17.23 billion U.S. dollars) for the December quarter, and two-way trade climbed to 61.2 billion NZ dollars (36.12 billion

Dairy prices surge 5.7 pct at GDT auction amid Middle East tensions

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 02:45:14 GMT

WELLINGTON, March 4 (Xinhua) -- Global dairy prices rose 5.7 percent to 4,301 U.S. dollars per tonne at the latest Global Dairy Trade (GDT) auction overnight, marking the fifth straight rise since January amid Middle East tensions.

Following a 3.6-percent rise at the previous one, the overnight event saw strong buying interest despite high milk production in key regions, with the volume on offer down as New Zeal

New Zealand tourism pumps about 27.7 bln USD into economy in 1 year

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 05:15:10 GMT

WELLINGTON, March 3 (Xinhua) -- New Zealand's tourism sector contributed a record 46.6 billion NZ dollars (27.69 billion U.S. dollars) to the economy in the year to March 2025, up 3.3 percent from the previous year, Stats NZ reported Tuesday.

Overseas visitor expenditure climbed 7 percent to 18.1 billion NZ dollars (10.75 U.S. dollars) during the period, as tourist arrivals jumped 4.3 percent to over 3.32 millio

New Zealand, Argentina seek closer cooperation

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 00:45:05 GMT

WELLINGTON, March 3 (Xinhua) -- New Zealand and Argentina have agreed to deepen cooperation to boost business, education and people-to-people links, a New Zealand government statement said Tuesday.

The statement was released after New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters met with Argentine President Javier Milei while leading a parliamentary and business delegation through Latin America.

Peters said th

5.4-magnitude quake hits Kermadec Islands, New Zealand -- GFZ

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 19:45:26 GMT

BEIJING, March 3 (Xinhua) -- An earthquake with a magnitude of 5.4 jolted Kermadec Islands, New Zealand, at 1922 GMT on Monday, the GFZ German Research Centre for Geosciences said.

The epicenter, with a depth of 10 km, was initially determined to be at 30.32 degrees south latitude and 177.26 degrees west longitude.

New Zealanders increasingly worried about AI's impact on society: survey

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 06:15:15 GMT

WELLINGTON, March 2 (Xinhua) -- New Zealanders are increasingly worried about the societal risks of artificial intelligence (AI) even as its use increases, a report revealed on Monday.

The 2025 Internet Insights report by InternetNZ found that four in five New Zealanders used AI tools in the past year, mainly for online searches, question answering, and writing assistance.

However, 52 percent of people su

New Zealand shares fall over Middle East conflict fear

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 02:15:11 GMT

WELLINGTON, March 2 (Xinhua) -- New Zealand's share market dropped on Monday in the first trading session amid the latest U.S.-Israeli strikes against Iran.

The benchmark S&P/NZX 50 Index fell 1 percent, or about 145 points, in early trading.

The New Zealand dollar also slipped against major currencies, down around 0.5 percent against the U.S. dollar in morning trade.