Yorkshire and former England captain Michael Vaughan have openly criticized the decision to select Adil Rashid for the first Test against India, despite the spinner's absence from red-ball domestic cricket this season. Rashid has responded to their comments by stating he is not affected by their opinions. While Vaughan has called the situation "ridiculous", Chief Executive Mark Arthur of Yorkshire has expressed disappointment with England's choice, emphasizing that it diminishes the value of the county game. Rashid's desire to focus on white-ball cricket and his selection by Ed Smith based on exceptional circumstances is behind the decision, but it has caused significant tension within the English cricket community.
Adil Rashid's Test Recall Sparks Controversy
Adil Rashid's selection for the first Test against India has stirred controversy, with Yorkshire and former England captain Michael Vaughan voicing their disapproval.
Background:
Adil Rashid, a world-class leg-spinner, has primarily focused on white-ball cricket in recent years. He has not played any first-class cricket this season, leading to questions about his readiness for the Test format.
The Decision:
Despite his recent absence from red-ball cricket, Rashid was picked for the first Test against India. England's National Selector, Ed Smith, cited Rashid's "exceptional circumstances" and his outstanding record in limited-overs cricket.
Criticism:
Former England captain Michael Vaughan labeled the decision as "ridiculous," arguing that it undermines the value of county cricket. Yorkshire Chief Executive Mark Arthur echoed Vaughan's sentiments, expressing disappointment with England's choice.
Rashid's Response:
In response to the criticism, Rashid stated that he is unaffected by Vaughan's or Arthur's opinions. He emphasized that he is focused on delivering for England in the Test series.
Reasons for the Decision:
Ed Smith explained that Rashid's selection was based on several factors, including his exceptional performances in the limited-overs formats, his unique skill set, and the belief that he can make a significant contribution to the Test team.
Top 5 FAQs:
1. Why was Adil Rashid not playing red-ball cricket for Yorkshire? Answer: Rashid has prioritized white-ball cricket in recent years and has not played a first-class match this season.
2. Who made the decision to select Rashid for the Test? Answer: England's National Selector, Ed Smith, made the decision.
3. What were the reasons behind Rashid's selection? Answer: Smith cited Rashid's "exceptional circumstances," his limited-overs record, and his unique skill set.
4. Why are some people critical of the decision? Answer: Critics argue that it undermines the value of county cricket and rewards players who have not proven themselves in the Test format recently.
5. How has Rashid responded to the criticism? Answer: Rashid has stated that he is not affected by the criticism and is focused on delivering for England in the Test series.
In a recent meeting, the Federal Reserve has chosen to maintain its current interest rates, citing uneven progress and moderate growth in the labor market. Senior financial writer Patrick Rehkamp from 1834, A Division of Old National Bank shares his analysis on the decision and offers potential factors for future changes as the year progresses. The discussion on the Fed's strategy and its implications on the financial landscape make this a must-watch for investors.
Bharat Electronics Ltd. (BEL) has reported strong financial performance in the third quarter of fiscal year 2025. The company's net profit saw a significant surge of 47.3% year-on-year, reaching ₹1,316 crore. This was driven by a solid 39% increase in revenue, which stood at ₹5,756 crore. Additionally, BEL's EBITDA also saw a substantial increase of 57.5% to ₹1,653 crore, with a widening of the EBITDA margin by 330 basis points. The company's strong order book of ₹71,100 crore and a healthy order inflow of ₹10,800 crore for FY25, indicate promising future growth opportunities. This news has also positively impacted BEL's stock prices which saw a 4.87% increase on the National Stock Exchange at ₹280.20.
An American Airlines flight headed to Washington D.C. collided with a military helicopter and crashed into the Potomac River, claiming the lives of all 64 passengers and crew members on board. The Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport has suspended operations temporarily while rescue efforts continue, but reports indicate that no survivors have been found yet. Aerial images of the wreckage have surfaced on social media, showing the devastating impact of the collision.
The Federal Reserve has decided to leave interest rates unchanged as Fed Chair Jerome Powell stated that they will wait for more data on inflation and employment before making any further adjustments. This comes as the Trump administration prepares to make decisions on immigration, tariffs, taxes, and other economic areas. Despite some politicians calling for rate cuts, Powell maintains that the current policy stance is appropriate, while also acknowledging that inflation remains elevated. The Fed will continue to monitor economic developments to maintain low unemployment and 2% annual inflation.
In the first monetary policy review of 2025, the US Federal Reserve decided to maintain the key interest rates at 4.25-4.50 per cent, which was in line with market expectations. Fed Chairman Jerome Powell stated that the economy had made significant progress and that indicators suggested continued solid expansion. The US market initially showed a downward trend but later recovered as GDP predictions for 2024 exceeded 2%. The FOMC released a statement stating that risks to achieving employment and inflation goals are balanced, leading to a stable target range for federal funds rate.
As the Union Budget approaches, speculations are rife about possible changes in the taxation structure. According to reports, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman may merge features from both the old and new tax regimes, leaving the new one as the only tax structure with reduced rates and zero concessions. This could result in the abolition of all 80C, 80D, and HRA deductions, including investments such as PPF, life insurance premiums and ELSS. Taxpayers may also be able to claim a deduction of Rs 5,000 for preventive health check-ups under 80D.
Visa, a leading credit card and digital payments company, announced its partnership with XMoney to launch the XMoney Account, allowing users to transfer funds instantly and securely to their X Wallet via Visa Direct. The feature will also be connected to the user's Visa debit card, enabling easy P2P payments. Additionally, users will have the option to transfer funds directly to their bank accounts. This partnership is another step towards X's goal of becoming an all-in-one app, similar to China's super app model.
With the Union Budget 2025 just around the corner, it's crucial to have a grasp of important budgetary terms. As Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman gears up to present the second full budget of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's third term, here's a comprehensive guide to key budgetary concepts. Stay informed and prepared for the unveiling on February 1.
The Digital News Publishers Association has applied to intervene in the copyright suit between Asian News International and OpenAI, over alleged unauthorized use of online news content. Justice Amit Bansal has issued notice on the intervention plea, but has cautioned against expanding the scope of the suit. The Court also criticized the publication of OpenAI's written submission in the media before the hearing. While OpenAI sought time to respond, its counsel has argued that DNPA does not have authorization to file such an application.
Australian brands are still selling children's nightwear made from synthetic fibres that pose fire hazards, despite nine recalls issued by the ACCC. Wool, the only naturally flame-resistant fibre, has been deemed the safest option, but weak laws and labelling requirements in Australia continue to put consumers at risk.