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Exciting December 2024 Game Releases: What to Expect

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December is a nice way to see out the year with a handful of thrilling must-plays rotten with all the appeal of game rot at the end of the year though everything is slowing down as we can smell the holidays. The month contains a little something for everyone, too — whether that means heart-pumping new adventures or good, old-fashioned nostalgia in the form of remasters. Here’s a rundown of the big titles to watch.

Must-Play Game Releases of December 2024: From Indiana Jones to Marvel Rivals and Classic Remasters

Antonblast

Game Releases
Game Releases

Anticipate Antonblast, which arrives on PC and Switch on December 3, to kick off December. This high-octane action title will have you follow Dynamite Anton on his frantic quest to reclaim his collection of spirits, stolen by the devil in order to build his collection. It’s a whole new take on platformers, Antonblast promises to be a thrilling experience for fans of platformers and action games.

Delta Force

Game Releases

Delta Force returns as free-to-play tomorrow December 4 on PC Set during the legendary Battle of Mogadishu, this unique tactical shooter showcases expansive maps and a team-oriented strategy. Military shooter fans can jump into large-scale multiplayer fights, recreating events from the movie Black Hawk Down.

Fantasian Neo Dimension

Game Releases

Settling on PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and Switch on December 5, Fantasian Neo Dimension is a successor set in a world of common environment and battle where you manipulate characters in a copy RPG kingdom. This game with diorama-based worlds and a catchy soundtrack by Nobuo Uematsu was previously only available on iOS. Ideal for fans of sprawling JRPGs who want to get lost in a world that has been meticulously designed.

Marvel Rivals

Game Releases

Marvel Rivals is an Overwatchlike fast-paced superhero PvP game, available December 6 on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S. Players will take control of their favorite iconic characters such as Iron Man, and even Venom, to duke it out in multiplayer combat arenas. Each character has a unique set of powers and abilities, so no two matches will ever be the same.

Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver 1 & 2 Remastered

Game Releases

Fans of the Legacy of Kain series will be excited for the remaster of Soul Reaver 1 and 2 on December 10. Available on PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and Switch, these remasters upgrade the beloved action-adventure experiences with modern visuals and retain the original’s story and gameplay.

Alien: Rogue Incursion

Game Releases

Alien: Rogue Incursion, launching on December 19 for PC and PS5 (PlayStation VR 2), promises to be an immersive VR experience set in the Alien universe. This action-horror title will have players face terrifying xenomorphs in an unpredictable, survival-based environment, making it a must-play for fans of both Alien and horror games.

FAQs

When is Marvel Rivals releasing?

Marvel Rivals is set to release on December 6 for PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S.

Is Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver available on all platforms?

Yes, the Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver remaster will be available on PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and Switch.

Xiaomi 15, Pad 7, and 7 Pro Clear Certifications, Launch Soon

Xiaomi is poised to introduce its Pad 7 and Pad 7 Pro tablets global variants, as its tablets have recently secured certifications from SDPPI, BIS, and TDRA. The Wi-Fi-only versions of the phones have been found listed in the UAE’s TDRA database, indicating that the phones could make their international debut, alongside the Xiaomi 15 series smartphones.

Xiaomi 15

Xiaomi 15, Pad 7, and 7 Pro Secure NBTC and TDRA Certifications, Global Launch Soon

The Pad 7 and Pad 7 Pro would have the same specs as the Chinese version in the global variants. The Pad 7 is also powered by the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 chipset which should provide sufficient performance for everyday usage and some light gaming. Meanwhile, the Pad 7 Pro will feature the significantly more powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC.

The two tablets will feature an 11.2-inch display with a 3200 x 2136 resolution and a 3:2 aspect ratio. The screens will have a 144Hz variable refresh rate for smooth scrolling and low blue light certification to lessen eye strain. As for the cameras, the Pad 7 Pro will come with a 50MP rear camera with support for 4K videos, whereas the Pad 7 will have a 13MP shooter. The front cameras will be of high quality; the Pad 7 Pro will ship with a 32MP camera, while the Pad 7 will have an 8MP sensor.

Both of them will feature impressive, large batteries with fast-charging support, and wide connectivity support, such as Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4. They will likely be based on Android 14 and will run on Xiaomi’s newly-customized Android skin. The Xiaomi 15, the company’s new flagship smartphone, has recently been revealed via NBTC and FCC certifications. It’ll come in 12GB + 256GB and 12GB + 512GB variants with support for Wi-Fi 6GHz, Bluetooth, NFC, and more. The phone will run on HyperOS 2.0 which is based on Android 15 More information to come shortly.

FAQs

When will the Xiaomi Pad 7 launch globally?

The global launch is expected soon after clearing multiple certifications, likely alongside the Xiaomi 15 series.

What are the main differences between the Pad 7 and Pad 7 Pro?

The Pad 7 features a Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 processor, while the Pad 7 Pro is powered by the more powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 3.

Vikrant Massey Announces Retirement: “It’s Time To Recalibrate And Go Back Home”

Indian cinema bids farewell to a beloved actor as Vikrant Massey, at the age of 37, announces his retirement from acting. Born on April 3, 1987, to Meena and Jolly Massey, Vikrant’s journey is as inspiring as it is poignant.

Vikrant Massey

The star, celebrated for his compelling performances in blockbuster films like 12th Fail, Sector 36, and Sabarmati Express, shared this surprising decision on Instagram, stating, “The last few years and beyond have been phenomenal. I thank each and every one of you for your indelible support. But as I move forward, I realise it’s time to recalibrate and go back home. As a Husband, Father & a Son. And also as an Actor.”

This heartfelt announcement has left fans and the industry stunned, sparking a wave of emotions and reflections on the actor’s legacy.

The Announcement That Shocked Fans

In his Instagram post, Vikrant expressed deep gratitude for his journey in the entertainment industry. Reflecting on his years as an actor, he wrote, “So coming 2025, we would meet each other for one last time. Until time deems right. Last 2 movies and many a years of memories. Thank you again. For everything and everything in between.” He concluded the emotional note with a touching phrase, “forever indebted.”

The announcement clarified that his retirement is driven by a desire to focus on his personal life, particularly his roles as a husband, father, and son. Vikrant’s decision has left fans divided—some supporting his move towards a balanced life, while others lament the loss of one of Bollywood’s finest actors.

A Flourishing Career

Vikrant Massey’s acting journey began on television, with his debut in the Disney Channel series Dhoom Machao Dhoom. He later gained widespread recognition with his performance in Balika Vadhu in 2009. His transition to films and web series marked the beginning of a career defined by versatility and depth.

From his critically acclaimed role in Konkona Sen Sharma’s A Death in the Gunj to mainstream hits like Haseen Dillruba and Chhapaak, Vikrant carved a niche for himself in Indian cinema. His compelling performances in web series like Broken But Beautiful, Criminal Justice, and Mirzapur further showcased his ability to bring complex characters to life.

Vikrant Massey Honored with Personality of the Year at IFFI Goa 2024

Most recently, Vikrant received the “Actor of the Year” award at the NDTV Indian of the Year ceremony for his performance in 12th Fail. This recognition solidified his reputation as one of Bollywood’s most talented and dependable actors.

Upcoming Projects

As Vikrant prepares to bid farewell to the industry, he is completing his final two films, Yaar Jigri and Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan. These projects are eagerly awaited by fans, who are keen to witness the actor’s swansong performances. Both films are expected to reflect the depth and commitment Vikrant has consistently brought to his roles.

A Glimpse into Personal Life

Born to a Sikh mother and a Christian father in Mumbai, Vikrant’s personal life has been as intriguing as his professional journey. Reports suggest that Vikrant and actress Sheetal Thakur began dating in 2015, though some claim their relationship blossomed on the sets of Broken But Beautiful in 2018.

The couple got engaged in November 2019 and registered their marriage on February 14, 2022. Just days later, on February 18, 2022, they celebrated their union in a traditional ceremony in Himachal Pradesh. Vikrant and Sheetal have since welcomed a child, and his Instagram post underscores his commitment to dedicating more time to his family.

Fans React to the News

Vikrant’s announcement has elicited mixed reactions online. While some fans encouraged him to prioritize his well-being, others couldn’t hide their disappointment. One fan commented, “I hope it’s not true.”

Vikrant Massey

While another wrote, “Bro, you are at peak…why do you think like this?” Comparisons were also drawn to actor Imran Khan, with fans lamenting the loss of another talented star to personal priorities.

Reflecting on a Legacy

At just 37, Vikrant Massey’s career has been a testament to his talent, dedication, and ability to connect with audiences. With each role, he brought authenticity and nuance, leaving an indelible mark on Indian cinema. His decision to step away underscores the importance of balance and prioritizing family—a choice that resonates with many, even as it leaves fans yearning for more.

As Vikrant Massey bids adieu to acting, his legacy remains intact—a repertoire of unforgettable performances, a commitment to meaningful storytelling, and a career that inspired countless aspiring actors. While his fans will miss his presence on screen, they also respect his decision to embrace this new chapter. For now, the anticipation of his final two films offers a bittersweet reminder of the extraordinary talent he brought to the world of cinema.

Read More: Vikrant Massey Honored with Personality of the Year at IFFI Goa 2024: Complete List of Winners

FAQs

Why is Vikrant Massey retiring from acting?

Vikrant Massey announced his decision to retire to focus on his personal life as a husband, father, and son. He described this move as a way to “recalibrate and go back home.”

What are Vikrant Massey’s final projects before retirement?

Vikrant is completing two films, Yaar Jigri and Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan, which are slated to release in 2025, marking his farewell performances.

What are some highlights of Vikrant Massey’s career?

Vikrant gained fame with TV shows like Balika Vadhu and later transitioned to films, delivering acclaimed performances in A Death in the Gunj, Chhapaak, and 12th Fail. He also starred in hit web series like Mirzapur and Broken But Beautiful.

What is Vikrant Massey’s personal background?

Born on April 3, 1987, to Meena and Jolly Massey, Vikrant is married to actress Sheetal Thakur. The couple tied the knot in February 2022 and have one child.


Also Read: Netflix Cancels The Kapil Sharma Show Due to Declining Viewership

Kanguva HD Leaked Online: What It Means for Suriya and the Team

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The highly anticipated film Kanguva, starring the talented Suriya, has recently faced a major setback. Despite the excitement surrounding its release, the movie has turned out to be a disappointment, failing to resonate with audiences and critics alike. As the team grapples with this unexpected outcome, the situation has taken a turn for the worse with the shocking leak of both the Tamil and Telugu HD versions online.


Kanguva

Kanguva: A Disappointing Reception

Kanguva was expected to be a blockbuster, but it has instead become a significant disappointment for Suriya and his team. The film struggled to impress viewers, leading to plans for an early streaming release on Amazon Prime Video, scheduled for December 13 in multiple languages. However, the recent leaks have thrown a wrench into those plans.


The Impact of the HD Leak

The leak of Kanguva’s Tamil HD version sent shockwaves through the film’s production team. Clips and scenes from the movie began circulating on various social media platforms, raising concerns about the film’s future. Just when the team thought they could salvage the situation with the upcoming OTT release, the Telugu version also fell victim to piracy.

Kanguva

This leak poses a serious threat to the film’s streaming plans, as it undermines the potential viewership and revenue that could have been generated through platforms like Amazon Prime. The team had hoped for a resurgence in interest once the film became available for streaming, but now they face additional challenges in recovering from this setback.


Suriya’s Next Steps

Despite the turmoil surrounding Kanguva, Suriya is looking ahead. He is gradually getting back on track with his upcoming projects, including Suriya 45, directed by RJ Balaji. The film has already generated buzz with the announcement of Trisha as the female lead, signaling a fresh start for the actor.

Suriya’s resilience in the face of adversity is commendable, and fans are eager to see how he bounces back from this disappointment.

ViewSonic’s New Monitors: Transform Your Workspace Today!

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ViewSonic, a global leader in visual and EdTech solutions, is gearing up to make a significant impact in the Indian market with the highly anticipated launch of its next-generation ColorPro Series Monitor and Business Monitor. These cutting-edge displays are designed to redefine professional workspaces by combining top-tier performance with innovative wellness-focused features.

With a reputation for delivering premium visual solutions, ViewSonic’s latest offerings are poised to cater to the growing demand for high-performance monitors in India, particularly among creative professionals and business users. Here’s everything you need to know about these upcoming game-changers.


ViewSonic ColorPro Series Monitor: 5K Resolution and Unmatched Visual Precision

The ColorPro Series Monitor is set to be a dream come true for professionals in creative industries like video editing, graphic design, and photography. Boasting an exceptional 5K resolution, this monitor promises ultra-crisp, detailed visuals that will elevate your work to the next level.

What makes the ColorPro truly stand out is its adaptive brightness and color accuracy technology. This advanced feature ensures superior clarity even in dimly lit environments by automatically adjusting to varying light conditions. Whether you’re editing photos late at night or working in a studio with fluctuating lighting, the ColorPro will maintain optimal brightness and color fidelity, giving you a seamless viewing experience.

Additionally, the monitor is equipped with Thunderbolt™ 4 docking, offering lightning-fast data transfer speeds and seamless connectivity. This feature not only enhances productivity but also helps keep your workspace organized by reducing cable clutter. For professionals who demand precision, efficiency, and convenience, the ColorPro Series Monitor is set to be a game-changer.


ViewSonic

Business Monitor: AI-Powered Productivity and Wellness Features

For business professionals, ViewSonic’s Business Monitor is designed to boost productivity while prioritizing user wellness. Packed with AI-powered functionality, this monitor is more than just a display—it’s a smart companion for your workday.

One of its standout features is auto screen dimming, which adjusts the display brightness based on ambient light. This not only optimizes energy efficiency but also reduces eye strain, making it ideal for long hours of work.

The Business Monitor also includes posture check technology, which provides gentle reminders to help users maintain good ergonomics throughout the day. This feature is particularly valuable for professionals who spend extended periods at their desks, helping to prevent common issues like back and neck pain.

Another innovative addition is the privacy alert system, which notifies users if someone is looking over their shoulder at the screen. This ensures a secure and distraction-free working environment, especially in shared or open office spaces.


Why These Monitors Are a Game-Changer for Indian Professionals

Scheduled to launch soon in India, ViewSonic’s new monitors are tailored to meet the needs of modern professionals who demand both performance and wellness in their workspaces.

The ColorPro Series Monitor is perfect for creative professionals who require unparalleled clarity and precision, while the Business Monitor caters to business users seeking productivity-enhancing features and ergonomic support. Together, these monitors promise to deliver:

  • Unmatched Visual Quality: With 5K resolution and adaptive brightness, the ColorPro sets a new standard for professional displays.
  • Enhanced Productivity: Thunderbolt™ 4 docking and AI-powered features streamline workflows and improve efficiency.
  • Wellness-Focused Design: From posture reminders to privacy alerts, these monitors prioritize user health and security.

Final Thoughts: A New Era for Indian Workspaces

ViewSonic’s upcoming ColorPro and Business Monitors are more than just displays—they’re tools designed to empower professionals with cutting-edge technology and wellness-focused innovations. Whether you’re a creative professional seeking precision or a business user looking for productivity and comfort, these monitors are set to transform the way you work.

As ViewSonic prepares to launch these revolutionary products in India, the anticipation is building. Stay tuned for the official release and get ready to upgrade your workspace with monitors that deliver clarity, convenience, and care.


FAQs

1. When will the ViewSonic ColorPro and Business Monitors launch in India?
The official launch date has not been announced yet, but they are expected to hit the Indian market soon.

2. Who are these monitors best suited for?
The ColorPro Series Monitor is ideal for creative professionals like video editors, graphic designers, and photographers. The Business Monitor is perfect for business users who prioritize productivity and wellness.

3. What are the key features of the ColorPro Series Monitor?
The ColorPro offers 5K resolution, adaptive brightness, color accuracy, and Thunderbolt™ 4 docking for seamless connectivity.

4. What wellness features does the Business Monitor include?
The Business Monitor includes auto screen dimming, posture check technology, and privacy alerts to enhance user comfort and security.

Oppo Find X8 Pro vs Vivo X200 Pro: Which One to Choose?

Earlier its Find X8 series made its global debut recently after breaking cover in China in October. Vivo is ready for the global unveiling of the X200 series in December, which pits it against two flagship mobile phones – the Oppo Find X8 Pro and Vivo X200 Pro. Let’s go through the important features to see which one is the better pick.

Oppo Find X8 Pro

Oppo Find X8 Pro vs Vivo X200 Pro: Which Premium Smartphone Should You Buy?

Design and Display

The Oppo Find X8 Pro and Vivo X200 Pro both feature an ultra-premium design, as we mentioned for the vanilla Find X8 model, using glass for the front and back, while the sides are aluminum. Both devices are IP68/I69 rated for dust and water. Oppo takes it further with Corning Gorilla Glass 7i on the front and back for additional durability, whereas Vivo is using Armor scratch-resistant glass, which might lack the same level of drop protection. Both phones have 6.78-inch LTPO AMOLED screens with vibrant colors, smooth 120Hz refresh rates, and HDR10+ support. Both displays are stunning, sharing a 4,500 nits peak brightness and 2K resolution.

Performance

The MediaTek Dimensity 9400 chipset with Immortalis-G925 GPU powers the Oppo Find X8 Pro and Vivo X200 Pro, ensuring smooth performance when running multiple apps or playing graphics-intensive games. Both phones include 12GB/16GB LPDDR5X RAM and up to 1TB UFS 4.0 storage. As for software, it varies from Oppo’s ColorOS 15 to Vivo’s FunTouch OS 15. Each offers deep customization and faster animations than their predecessors.

Camera

Oppo and Vivo take distinct approaches to their camera setups. Oppo has a quad-camera, with all 50MP lenses, and Vivo has a triple-camera with a particularly impressive 200MP telephoto lens. Where Vivo’s telephoto shines in zoom shots, Oppo prioritizes Hasselblad Color Calibration for accurate colors.

Both phones feature a 32MP selfie camera, though on the Vivo you’ll have an ultrawide lens for wider group shots. Vivo also outshines Oppo in video recording, with the ability to shoot in 8K, while Oppo supports Dolby Vision HDR and 10-bit video.

Battery and Charging

Oppo Find X8 Pro lags behind with a 5910 mAh battery, while Vivo has a 6000 mAh battery. Vivo’s 90W wired charging is faster, but Oppo’s 80W wired charging and 50W wireless charging offer a solid performance. The choice comes down to wired speed versus wireless convenience.

Final Verdict

The Vivo X200 Pro is attainable for content creators due to its superior camera, larger battery, and Hi-Res audio. That said, the Oppo Find X8 Pro is a more than solid option, particularly for those keen on mobile imaging. It’s ultimately up to your tastes, but if you’re hoping for a better picture of what the Vivo X200 Pro’s pricing and features look like, you might be better off waiting for a global launch.

FAQs

Which has a better camera, the Oppo Find X8 Pro or the Vivo X200 Pro?

Vivo X200 Pro offers a 200MP telephoto lens, while Oppo uses Hasselblad calibration for better color.

Which has a better battery?

Vivo X200 Pro has a larger 6000mAh battery, while Oppo supports faster 80W wired charging.

Silk Smitha Biopic: STRI Cinemas Announces “Queen of the South” on Icon’s Birth Anniversary

STRI Cinemas has made a groundbreaking announcement on the birth anniversary of South Indian cinema’s legendary actress Silk Smitha. The production house is set to create an official biopic titled “Silk Smitha – Queen of the South,” promising to bring the fascinating life story of this iconic figure to the silver screen.

Silk Smitha Biopic: Details

The biopic will feature Chandrika Ravi stepping into the challenging role of Silk Smitha. Under the direction of acclaimed filmmaker Jayaram Sankaran and produced by SB. Vijay Amirtharaj, the project aims to capture the essence of Silk Smitha’s remarkable journey in the entertainment industry. Production is scheduled to begin in early 2025, with plans for a multi-language release across South India.

Vision and Scope

The announcement demonstrates STRI Cinemas’ commitment to telling authentic stories that resonate with audiences. The production house has emphasized their dedication to portraying Silk Smitha’s life with sensitivity and depth, acknowledging her significant impact on South Indian cinema.

Silk Smitha Biopic

Cultural Impact

Legacy of an Icon

Silk Smitha’s influence on South Indian cinema extends far beyond her roles. She was known for:

  • Breaking conventional stereotypes
  • Redefining female representation in cinema
  • Creating a unique screen presence
  • Influencing future generations of actresses

Industry Recognition

The announcement of this biopic represents a significant moment in South Indian cinema, acknowledging the lasting impact of Silk Smitha’s contributions to the industry. The project aims to explore both the glamorous and challenging aspects of her life, providing audiences with a comprehensive understanding of the person behind the icon.

Production Approach

Authentic Storytelling

The makers have emphasized their commitment to:

  • Thorough research into Silk Smitha’s life
  • Accurate portrayal of the era
  • Balanced representation of her journey
  • Attention to historical detail

Technical Excellence

The production team is focusing on:

  • High production values
  • Period-accurate set design
  • Authentic costume design
  • Careful attention to makeup and styling

Special Announcement

Birthday Tribute

To mark the announcement on Silk Smitha’s birth anniversary, the makers have released:

  • An exclusive preview video
  • First-look materials
  • Project vision statement
  • Production timeline

Regional Impact

Multi-Language Release

The biopic is planned for release in:

  • Tamil
  • Telugu
  • Malayalam
  • Kannada
  • Other regional languages

This approach ensures the story reaches a wide audience across South India, reflecting Silk Smitha’s pan-Indian appeal.

The announcement of “Silk Smitha – Queen of the South” marks an important milestone in South Indian cinema. As production preparations begin, audiences and industry observers eagerly anticipate this tribute to one of cinema’s most memorable personalities. The project not only promises to chronicle Silk Smitha’s journey but also aims to provide insights into the era that shaped her career and the industry’s evolution.

The biopic represents more than just a film; it’s a celebration of a unique talent who left an indelible mark on Indian cinema. With its planned multi-language release and focus on authentic storytelling, “Silk Smitha – Queen of the South” is poised to be a significant addition to Indian cinema’s biographical genre.

Read More: Sshhh OTT Release Date Aha: A Gripping Tamil Anthology Series Arrives

FAQs

Q1: When will “Silk Smitha – Queen of the South” begin production?

The film is scheduled to commence production in early 2025. The team is currently in pre-production, focusing on research and preparation for this ambitious project.

Q2: Why was Chandrika Ravi chosen for the role of Silk Smitha?

Chandrika Ravi was selected for her ability to capture the essence of Silk Smitha’s personality and screen presence. The makers believe she possesses the necessary talent and dedication to portray this complex character with authenticity and respect.

India’s WTC Final Hopes: What Must Happen After NZ’s Defeat!

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The race to the World Test Championship/WTC Final is heating up, and Team India’s path to qualification has become clearer after New Zealand’s recent loss to England. With the stakes higher than ever, India’s chances of making it to the WTC Final depend on a mix of their own performance and the outcomes of other key matches. Here’s a breakdown of the qualification scenarios for India.

Team India’s WTC Final Qualification Scenario: What Needs to Happen After New Zealand’s Loss to England

India’s Path to Qualification

India’s qualification depends on their performance in the ongoing #AUSvsIND series and the results of other teams, particularly Sri Lanka (SL) and South Africa (SA). Here’s how the scenarios play out:

1. India Wins the Series 5-0, 4-1, 4-0, or 3-0

  • Outcome: India qualifies directly for the WTC Final.
  • These dominant scorelines ensure India’s spot without relying on other results.

2. India Wins the Series 3-1

  • Outcome: India qualifies unless South Africa defeats Sri Lanka at home in the second Test.
  • A 3-1 victory gives India a strong chance, but they’ll need to keep an eye on the SA vs. SL series.
India’s WTC Final Hopes: What Must Happen After NZ’s Defeat!

3. India Wins the Series 3-2

  • Outcome: Sri Lanka must at least draw one game against Australia.
  • India’s qualification would hinge on Sri Lanka’s ability to avoid a clean sweep by Australia.

4. India Draws the Series 2-2

  • Outcome:
    • South Africa must defeat Sri Lanka 2-0.
    • Sri Lanka must then win their series against Australia with a minimum scoreline of 1-0.
  • This is the most complicated scenario, requiring multiple results to go India’s way.
WTC FInal

Key Matches to Watch

  • South Africa vs. Sri Lanka: South Africa’s performance against Sri Lanka will play a crucial role in determining India’s fate.
  • Sri Lanka vs. Australia: Sri Lanka’s ability to hold their ground against Australia is another critical factor.

What’s at Stake?

The WTC Final is the pinnacle of Test cricket, and India is eager to make their second consecutive appearance after finishing as runners-up in the inaugural edition. With a strong squad and home advantage in the ongoing series against Australia, India has a golden opportunity to secure their spot.

KKR’s Bold Captaincy Move: Ajinkya Rahane Set to Lead After Shreyas Iyer’s Exit

The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are making headlines with their bold decision regarding the captaincy for the upcoming IPL 2025 season. With the franchise unable to secure the return of skipper Shreyas Iyer during the recent auction, KKR is now looking to the future. While Venkatesh Iyer, the franchise’s top buy at INR 23.5 crore, was considered a potential leader, reports indicate that KKR has set its sights on Ajinkya Rahane as the frontrunner for the captaincy role.

KKR's Bold Captaincy Move: Ajinkya Rahane Set to Lead After Shreyas Iyer's Exit

Ajinkya Rahane – The New Captain for KKR?

Rahane, who was acquired for his base price of INR 1.5 crore, is seen as the ideal candidate to lead KKR into the new season. According to sources, the franchise specifically targeted Rahane with the intention of making him the captain. “Yes, at the moment it’s 90% confirmed that Ajinkya will be the new KKR captain. He was bought by KKR specifically for the purpose of being a viable captaincy option,” a source told the Times of India.

Ajinkya Rahane: A Proven Leader

Ajinkya Rahane brings a wealth of leadership experience to the table. He has captained various teams across different formats and has even led the Indian national team in the absence of regular skippers. Currently, he is the captain of Mumbai’s Ranji Trophy team. However, his IPL captaincy experience is limited to the Rajasthan Royals, where he led the team during the 2018 and 2019 seasons.

KKR’s decision to appoint Rahane comes after they were unable to secure other captaincy candidates in the auction. This move signals a strategic shift for the franchise as they aim to build a strong leadership structure for the upcoming season.

KKR's Bold Captaincy Move: Ajinkya Rahane Set to Lead After Shreyas Iyer's Exit

Venkatesh Iyer’s Aspirations

Venkatesh Iyer, who has expressed his desire to take on a leadership role, made a strong case for himself after being bought for INR 23.75 crore. He stated, “I have always believed that captaincy is just a tag, but leadership is about creating an environment where everyone feels they can play for this team and contribute. If given the responsibility, I would be more than happy to do it.” Iyer previously captained the team in the absence of Nitish Rana and served as vice-captain, showcasing his potential as a leader.

A New Leadership Structure

As KKR prepares for the 2025 campaign, they may consider appointing Rahane as the full-time captain while designating Venkatesh Iyer as vice-captain. This structure would not only provide Rahane with the opportunity to lead but also allow him to mentor Iyer for future leadership roles.

While Rahane’s previous stint as captain of the Rajasthan Royals saw mixed results—winning just nine of 24 matches—KKR is hopeful that his experience and strategic mindset will bring a new dynamic to the team.

Looking Ahead

As KKR embarks on this new chapter, the appointment of Ajinkya Rahane as captain could mark a significant turning point for the franchise. With a blend of experience and fresh leadership, KKR aims to reclaim its position as a formidable force in the IPL. Fans eagerly await the official announcement and the exciting season ahead!

India Makes History: 20th Asian Women’s Handball Championship Kicks Off!

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India is poised to make history by hosting the 20th Asian Women’s Handball Championship for the very first time, taking place from December 3 to 10, 2024, at the iconic Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium in New Delhi.

This prestigious tournament, presented by the World Handball League (WHL) and organized by the Asian Handball Federation, will showcase some of Asia’s top teams, including the 16-time champions South Korea, along with Japan, China, and Kazakhstan. These teams will compete not only for continental glory but also for a chance to qualify for the 2025 IHF World Women’s Handball Championship in Germany and the Netherlands.

Tune in to Doordarshan for Exclusive Coverage of Asian Women’s Handball Championship

The WHL is on a mission to elevate handball to a mainstream sport in India through its partnership with Doordarshan, India’s largest and most trusted broadcaster. By broadcasting the championship across Doordarshan’s extensive network, the WHL aims to introduce handball to millions of viewers nationwide. This collaboration will feature exclusive content, including prime-time highlights and live coverage on finals day, along with live streaming of matches on SportCast India’s YouTube channel.

India Makes History: 20th Asian Women’s Handball Championship Kicks Off!

“This is a defining moment in the history of Indian women’s handball and a significant step toward transforming the sport in the country,” said Swapnil Jain, Managing Director of Pavna Group and Co-Promoter of WHL. “As India takes the global stage with the 2024 Asian Women’s Handball Championship, it showcases not only our growing capabilities but also our commitment to nurturing grassroots development. Doordarshan’s grassroots approach will take handball to where it truly matters—into the streets, communities, and hearts of the people. Our goal is to inspire every child in India to dream of stepping onto the handball court and envisioning a future in this sport.”

Doordarshan, established in 1959, serves as the official broadcast partner for the championship, reaching over 90% of the country and boasting a viewership of more than 200 million. This partnership adds immense credibility and visibility to the event, ensuring that the championship reaches audiences far and wide, bringing world-class sporting events to every corner of the nation.

Hosting this championship also symbolizes India’s rising stature in international sports. The introduction of handball at this level aims to inspire young athletes, particularly women, to pursue careers in sports. It also presents brands and organizations with an opportunity to align with this transformative journey. The WHL, in collaboration with Doordarshan, is set to create a legacy that extends beyond the tournament, laying the groundwork for the growth and popularity of handball across the nation.

In addition to Doordarshan, the 20th Asian Women’s Handball Championship will be supported by Pavna International School as Knowledge Partner, Golden Eagles as the Empowered By Partner, and Kolkata Thunder Strikers as the Energized By Partner. This strong collaboration highlights the collective effort to promote the sport and its growing popularity in India.

As the countdown begins, excitement builds for this landmark event that promises to elevate women’s handball in India and inspire a new generation of athletes. Don’t miss the chance to witness history in the making!