Ranji Trophy Final : A sensational unbeaten century by Karun Nair has put Vidarbha on the cusp of their third Ranji Trophy title in the last seven years. On Day 4 of the 2025 Ranji Trophy final, Nair’s flawless 132 off 280 deliveries propelled Vidarbha to 249/4 at stumps, giving them a commanding 286-run lead over Kerala. With just a day left in the contest, only a miraculous turnaround can prevent Vidarbha from lifting the trophy.
𝙄𝙉𝘿𝙄𝘼 𝘾𝙊𝙈𝙀𝘽𝘼𝘾𝙆 𝙇𝙊𝘼𝘿𝙄𝙉𝙂? 🇮🇳
Karun Nair registered his fourth century of the season as Vidarbha inched closer to their third Ranji Trophy win 🏆 pic.twitter.com/8wczBIIGQy
Ranji Trophy Final : Karun Nair’s Masterclass Puts Vidarbha on Brink of Third Ranji Trophy Title in Seven Years
Nair’s Brilliance Rescues Vidarbha from Early Collapse
Vidarbha started their second innings with a slim 37-run lead, but Kerala had a dream start, reducing them to 7/2 in just 2.2 overs. Jalaj Saxena and M D Nidheesh rattled the top order, giving the first-time finalists hope of staging an upset. However, Nair, along with Danish Malewar, stood tall, stitching together a match-defining 182-run partnership.
Malewar, who had already tormented Kerala with a century in the first innings, scored a crucial 73 before falling to Akshay Chandran. However, Nair continued his dominance, ensuring Vidarbha strengthened their grip on the match. Dropped on 31 by Chandran off Eden Apple Tom, he made the most of the reprieve, bringing up his fourth century of the season in style.
Vidarbha’s Title Hopes Skyrocket
With Kerala’s batting lineup showing vulnerability under pressure—evident from their first-innings collapse from 324/7 to 342 all out—they now face an uphill battle. If they fail to bowl out Vidarbha early and chase down the total, Vidarbha will be crowned champions based on their first-innings lead.
Kerala: 342 (First innings lead: Vidarbha by 37 runs)
Vidarbha Lead: 286 runs (Stumps on Day 4)
Karun Nair’s Redemption Arc
Nair’s journey to this moment has been remarkable. Once a rising star for Karnataka, he found himself out of favor in 2023 and made a bold move to Vidarbha. Interestingly, he had also considered joining Kerala but ultimately chose Vidarbha. His stellar performance in the final has now ensured that his name will be etched in Vidarbha’s cricketing history.
In an interview with Malayalam Channel 24, Nair admitted, “There were discussions about me joining Kerala, but things didn’t materialize. At the same time, Vidarbha approached me, and I decided to take the offer. Looking back, it has been a great decision.”
What’s Next?
With just one day left in the match, Kerala’s only chance of scripting history is by bowling Vidarbha out quickly and successfully chasing down the target. However, with Nair in supreme form and Vidarbha’s lead nearing 300, the odds are stacked against them. If Kerala falls short, Vidarbha will add another Ranji Trophy title to their 2017-18 and 2018-19 triumphs.
FAQs
How many Ranji Trophy titles has Vidarbha won before 2025?
Vidarbha has won the Ranji Trophy twice before— in the 2017-18 and 2018-19 seasons.
What is Karun Nair’s highest score in Ranji Trophy?
Karun Nair’s highest score in the Ranji Trophy is 328, which he scored for Karnataka.
In the dynamic world of international cricket, leadership transitions can often signal significant strategic shifts. The upcoming appointment of Mohsin Naqvi as the President of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) is one such moment that promises to reshape the continental cricket landscape.
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The Rising Influence of Mohsin Naqvi
Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi is set to don a new hat, taking over the reins of the Asian Cricket Council later this month. The ACC meeting is scheduled to be held in Dubai after the ICC Champions Trophy final, where the leadership will officially transition. Currently, the ACC is being led on an interim basis by Sri Lanka Cricket Board President Shammi Silva.
A Pivotal Moment for Asian Cricket
The upcoming ACC General Council meeting is more than just a leadership change. It carries significant implications for the future of cricket in Asia, particularly regarding the highly anticipated Asia Cup.
The Asia Cup Controversy: Potential Venue Shifts
One of the most intriguing aspects of Naqvi’s potential presidency is the uncertainty surrounding the Asia Cup 2025 hosting rights. Sources indicate that while India is set to host the tournament, alternative venues like Dubai and Sri Lanka are being considered. This development adds an extra layer of complexity to the tournament’s preparations.
Tournament Details at a Glance
Format: T20 (in preparation for the 2026 T20 World Cup)
Participating Teams:
India
Pakistan
Sri Lanka
Bangladesh
Afghanistan
UAE
Oman
Hong Kong
Political Undercurrents and Diplomatic Challenges
The potential venue change is not just a sporting decision but carries significant geopolitical undertones. The meeting will decide the venues for this year’s Asia Cup, which was originally supposed to be hosted by India. The diplomatic tensions between participating nations, particularly India and Pakistan, could play a crucial role in this decision.
Potential India vs Pakistan Encounters
Cricket fans can look forward to potentially three India-Pakistan matches in the tournament:
Group Stage Clash
Super 4 Stage Encounter (if both teams qualify)
Possible Final Showdown
Mohsin Naqvi: A Leader in Transition
Naqvi’s appointment is being viewed as a prestigious honor for the PCB. His leadership comes at a critical time when Asian cricket is seeking to consolidate its global position and navigate complex geopolitical landscapes.
What This Means for Asian Cricket
The transition of power at the ACC could signal:
Potential strategic realignments
New approaches to tournament hosting
Diplomatic negotiations through the lens of sports
The Road Ahead
As the cricket world watches closely, Mohsin Naqvi’s potential presidency represents more than just an administrative change. It symbolizes the evolving dynamics of cricket governance in Asia.
FAQ:-
Is PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi set to become the next ACC president?
Naqvi was elected as chairman for the PCB in February 2024, and also serves as Pakistan’s interior minister, from March 2024. His nomination as the ACC president would be his third major role within the span of the calendar year.
Who is the new president of ACC?
Shammi Silva is the current president of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC). He took over the role in December 2024 from Jay Shah, who became the chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC).
In the heart of Nagpur, a cricketing drama is unfolding that has cricket enthusiasts across India holding their breath. The Ranji Trophy 2024-25 final between Vidarbha and Kerala is not just a match – it’s a testament to the raw passion and skill that defines domestic cricket in India.
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The High Stakes of the Ranji Trophy
The Ranji Trophy, India’s premier first-class cricket tournament, is more than just a competition. It’s a breeding ground for future national heroes, a stage where dreams are born and legends are made in a tournament that runs from 11 October 2024 to 26 February 2025. This year’s final is particularly special, with two formidable teams battling for ultimate glory.
The Protagonists: Vidarbha vs Kerala
Vidarbha’s Quest for a Historic Third Title
Vidarbha is no stranger to success. With a commanding performance, they’ve taken a substantial lead of 286 runs in their second innings. The team’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable, with an impressive record of winning 6 out of 7 matches in the group stage.
The Heroes of Vidarbha
Karun Nair’s Masterclass: Nair has been the standout performer, scoring an unbeaten 132 off 280 balls, including 10 fours and two sixes. He was particularly crucial after a tough first innings where he was run out for 87.
Danish Malewar’s Solid Contribution: Malewar played a pivotal role, scoring 73 runs off 162 balls and forming a crucial 182-run partnership with Nair.
Kerala’s Fight for a First-Time Glory
For Kerala, this is more than just a match – it’s a chance to etch their name in Ranji Trophy history. They are vying for their maiden title, facing a Vidarbha team that has already won championships back-to-back in 2018 and 2019.
The Unique Rules: What Happens If the Match Ends in a Draw?
Cricket fans, pay attention! The Ranji Trophy has a fascinating rule for determining the winner if the final ends in a draw. If the match cannot produce a result, the winner will be decided by:
The team with the greater number of points at the league stage
If points are equal, then the team with more bonus points
If bonus points are also equal, the team with more outright wins
If still tied, the team that won against each other in the league stage
If all else fails, the winner will be decided by a coin toss!
The Current Scenario
With only a day’s play remaining, Vidarbha is in a strong position. They’ll need to strategically decide when to declare, ensuring their bowlers have enough time to challenge Kerala’s batting lineup on a pitch that hasn’t shown significant deterioration.
Why This Match Matters
The Ranji Trophy is more than just a tournament. It’s the crucible where India’s cricket talent is refined, where young players dream of catching the selectors’ eyes and making it to the national team.
Key Takeaways
Vidarbha leads by 286 runs
Karun Nair’s unbeaten 132 has been crucial
Kerala is fighting for their first-ever title
Unique rules ensure a definitive outcome
Conclusion
As the final day approaches, cricket fans are in for a treat. Will Vidarbha clinch their third title, or will Kerala script a historic victory? Only time will tell.
FAQ:-
What happens if the Ranji Trophy final is drawn?
If both teams finish with the same first-innings total and a result cannot be determined, the following criteria will be used to decide the winner: The team with greater number of points at league stage. If points are equal then team with greater number of bonus points at league stage.
Where will Ranji Trophy final be held?
Ranji Trophy 2024-2025: Top 10 leading wicket-takers of the current season. The current season of the Ranji Trophy is set to conclude with Vidarbha taking on Kerala in the final on February 26 at the VCA stadium, Nagpur.
South Africa secured their place in the Champions Trophy semi-finals with a dominant victory over a struggling England, who bowed out of the tournament winless, without their captain, and on a dismal seven-match losing streak.
Opting to bat first in Karachi—arguably the tournament’s most batting-friendly venue—England played as if they had no intention of doing so. Their innings crumbled to the lowest total of this Champions Trophy, with careless and at times reckless strokeplay handing South Africa easy wickets. Despite battling illness and injury, South Africa remained sharp in the field, timed their chase expertly, and head into the knockouts with plenty of positives.
On the bowling front, Marco Jansen continued his fine form, claiming the first three wickets, while Keshav Maharaj was effective in the middle overs and Wiaan Mulder wrapped up the tail. Missing their regular openers Temba Bavuma and Tony de Zorzi (both unwell) and Aiden Markram (hamstring injury), South Africa’s batting still delivered. Rassie van der Dussen and Heinrich Klaasen anchored the chase with match-winning half-centuries in a 127-run third-wicket partnership.
While South Africa now face a selection dilemma of the good kind, England’s campaign leaves them with nothing but problems.
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England’s Reckless Approach Seals Their Fate
Already eliminated after their loss to Afghanistan and with Jos Buttler announcing his resignation as captain, England had nothing to lose and were expected to play with freedom. That intent was evident early when Phil Salt struck Marco Jansen’s second delivery over backward point and followed it up with another boundary over midwicket. However, instead of closing out the over sensibly, he attempted to pull the final ball—a short one—and top-edged it to Rassie van der Dussen at midwicket, ending his underwhelming tournament with just 30 runs from 25 balls.
Joe Root
Ben Duckett briefly carried the momentum, smashing two boundaries off Lungi Ngidi in three balls. However, Jamie Smith fell into the same trap as Salt, mistiming a pull shot off Jansen straight to Aiden Markram at mid-on. Duckett, after a promising start, also perished trying to clip Jansen fine, only to get a leading edge back to South Africa’s star bowler. At 37 for 3 in the seventh over, England were in deep trouble.
Joe Root survived an early scare when he cut Kagiso Rabada to backward point, where Wiaan Mulder got both hands to it but couldn’t hold on. Root then found his rhythm, forming a 62-run partnership with a confident Harry Brook. England seemed to be stabilizing, but Jansen wasn’t done yet. Brook launched Keshav Maharaj over midwicket, only for Jansen to sprint from long-on and execute a brilliant sliding catch. Just four balls later, Root attempted a flick off Mulder, missed, and saw the ball ricochet off his back pad onto the stumps—summarizing England’s chaotic and ill-fated campaign.
Buttler’s Final Innings Ends in Disappointment as England Collapse
At that stage, Jos Buttler—playing his final innings as England captain—had faced just one ball and carried the burden of reviving his team. However, he found little support, with Liam Livingstone falling cheaply. Attempting an aggressive charge down the pitch, Livingstone was outfoxed by Keshav Maharaj, who tossed the ball up and had him stumped. His poor form continued, having surpassed 20 runs only once in his last seven innings.
Jos Buttler
By then, England’s innings resembled an exercise in damage control, while South Africa remained relentless in their hunt for wickets. Kagiso Rabada returned at the halfway mark, immediately troubling Jamie Overton. After forcing a defensive stroke, he lured Overton into an ill-fated attacking shot, which resulted in a stunning one-handed catch by Lungi Ngidi at mid-on.
South Africa’s fielding excellence persisted as Marco Jansen took a low catch at midwicket to dismiss Jofra Archer, and Maharaj completed a tumbling grab at mid-off to send Buttler back for just 21. With that, Ngidi claimed his 100th ODI wicket, and England’s miserable innings came to an end in the 39th over—taking with them South Africa’s concerns about a slow over rate.
South Africa’s Qualification Sealed, but Batters Seek Confidence
By this stage, South Africa’s semi-final spot was guaranteed, as even a loss wouldn’t have affected their superior net run rate over Afghanistan. While this removed any pressure from the chase, it didn’t ease the individual expectations of South Africa’s batters, who were eager for runs ahead of a crucial knockout stage.
Rassie van der Dussen
Tristan Stubbs, playing his ninth ODI and first in an ICC event, failed to make an impact. Attempting to play Jofra Archer late, he ended up deflecting the ball onto his stumps for a disappointing dismissal. Archer, despite struggling with his line in an extended ten-ball opening over, quickly found his rhythm. He bowled with pace and precision for the rest of his spell, earning a second wicket when he breached Ryan Rickelton’s defense. The left-hander, who looked assured in his 25-ball 27, was undone by a delivery that nipped back sharply and crashed into middle stump.
South Africa Cruise to Victory, Extend Knockout Streak
From that point on, it was all South Africa. While Rassie van der Dussen appeared occasionally frustrated by his slower scoring rate compared to Heinrich Klaasen, the duo complemented each other well. Van der Dussen accumulated runs predominantly on the leg side, while six of Klaasen’s 11 boundaries were crisply driven through the covers. Klaasen brought up his half-century with a cover drive off his 41st ball, marking his fifth consecutive fifty in ODIs—tying the record for most in succession by a South African. Van der Dussen followed suit, reaching his milestone off 72 balls with a square-leg shot off Adil Rashid, his second fifty of the tournament.
Heinrich Klaasen
Klaasen fell while attempting to launch Rashid over fine leg, only to edge the ball to short third. However, David Miller sealed the victory in emphatic fashion, dispatching Liam Livingstone’s second delivery over the sightscreen for six.
This marks South Africa’s third consecutive ICC tournament where they have progressed to the knockouts, following the 2023 ODI World Cup and the 2024 T20 World Cup. Their semi-final opponent and venue will be determined after Sunday’s clash between India and New Zealand. South Africa will face the losing side—either in Dubai on Tuesday (if it’s India) or in Lahore on Wednesday (if it’s New Zealand).
How did South Africa secure their place in the Champions Trophy semi-finals?
South Africa confirmed their semi-final spot with a dominant win over England, who ended the tournament winless and on a seven-match losing streak.
What went wrong for England in their final group-stage match?
England’s reckless batting saw them bowled out for the lowest total of the tournament, while their fielding and captaincy turmoil further exposed their struggles.
Who were South Africa’s standout performers against England?
Marco Jansen starred with the ball, picking up key wickets, while Rassie van der Dussen and Heinrich Klaasen’s 127-run partnership guided the chase.
How has South Africa performed in recent ICC tournaments?
This marks their third consecutive ICC tournament semi-final, following the 2023 ODI World Cup and the 2024 T20 World Cup.
Who will South Africa face in the Champions Trophy semi-finals?
South Africa’s semi-final opponent depends on the India vs. New Zealand match. They will face the losing team—either in Dubai (if it’s India) or Lahore (if it’s New Zealand).
Imagine a weekend where music transcends boundaries, where legendary artists and rising stars share the same stage, and where every beat tells a story. Welcome to the NH7 Weekender 2025 – a musical odyssey that’s about to set Jaipur, Indore, and Noida ablaze with unforgettable performances!
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NH7 Weekender 2025: The Ultimate Musical Escape You Can’t Miss This March
What Makes NH7 Weekender Special?
More than just a music festival, NH7 Weekender is a celebration of friendship, creativity, and the incredible diversity of Indian music. Brought to you in partnership with The House of McDowell’s Soda, this year’s edition promises to be a game-changer for music lovers across India.
The Musical Destinations
March 28 – Jaipur: An Indie Music Paradise
Headliner: Prateek Kuhad, the voice that defined India’s indie music scene
Rising Stars:
Akshath: YouTube sensation with 136 million views
Frizzell D’Souza: Spotify Radar Artist with soulful acoustic vibes
Manan Mehta: A 17-year-old piano prodigy
March 29 – Indore: Legends and Legends-in-the-Making
Iconic Performers:
Euphoria: Pioneers of Indian pop-rock
Usha Uthup: The legendary voice that spans 17 Indian and 8 foreign languages
Fresh Sounds:
The Western Ghats: Blending rock, pop, and electronic music
Tanya Sojatia: A versatile singer-songwriter
March 29 – Noida: Hip-Hop and Electronic Explosion
Headline Act: Seedhe Maut – Revolutionizing Hindi rap
Emerging Talents:
Chaar Diwaari (Garv Taneja): Experimental music maestro
Yung Sammy: The Nigerian-Indian hip-hop sensation
Dr. Psych (Prerna Sharma): A multi-talented artist breaking boundaries
More Than Just a Festival
Akshat Rathee, Co-Founder of NODWIN Gaming, puts it perfectly: “NH7 Weekender is about celebrating friendships and shared moments.” It’s not just a concert – it’s an experience that connects people through the universal language of music.
Ticket Details You Need to Know
Early Bird Tickets: Starting at just ₹699
Exclusive Ticketing Partner: District App by Zomato
Varun Koorichh from Diageo India captures the essence perfectly: “Music is the rhythm of friendships.” NH7 Weekender isn’t just a festival – it’s a movement that brings people together, creates memories, and celebrates the incredible talent of Indian musicians.
Pro Tip: These tickets are going to fly faster than a chart-topping hit. Grab yours now and be part of the most anticipated musical journey of 2025!
Final Note
Whether you’re an indie music lover, a hip-hop enthusiast, or someone who simply enjoys great music, NH7 Weekender has something special waiting for you. Three cities, one incredible weekend, countless memories to be made.
COLORFUL X15 XS Gaming Laptop Launch: Are you a gamer or creator who believes high performance comes with a hefty price tag? Prepare to have your world turned upside down.
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Gaming Dreams, Budget Reality: COLORFUL X15 XS, A Laptop That Changes the Game
The Budget Beast Unveiled
Meet the COLORFUL X15 XS – the gaming laptop that’s about to make expensive rigs look like expensive mistakes. Priced at just $699, this machine is a game-changer in every sense of the word.
What Makes the X15 XS Special?
🚀 Powerhouse Performance
Processor: 12th Gen Intel Core i5-12500H
Blazing-fast 4.5GHz speeds
12 cores (4P+8E) for ultimate multitasking
Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050
Ray Tracing capabilities
DLSS technology for stunning visuals
💻 Specs That Speak Volumes
Memory: 16GB DDR4 (Expandable to 64GB!)
Storage: 512GB NVMe SSD
Display: 15.6″ FHD 144Hz IPS Screen
Who Is This Laptop For?
Perfect for:
Budget-conscious gamers
Students
Content creators
Casual and serious gamers alike
Tech That Doesn’t Compromise
Cooling Innovation
Storm Blade 2.0 Cooling Technology ensures your laptop stays cool under pressure. No more thermal throttling, no more performance dips.
Connectivity Powerhouse
Wi-Fi 6E
Bluetooth 5.2
Multiple USB ports
HDMI output
Mini DisplayPort
The Price That’ll Make You Look Twice
Just $699 for a laptop that:
Handles gaming with ease
Crushes productivity tasks
Looks sleek and professional
Pros and Cons
Pros
Cons
Affordable pricing
Limited to RTX 3050
Upgradeable RAM
Not the most powerful GPU
Solid cooling system
Single storage slot used
RGB backlit keyboard
The Verdict: Game Changer or Just Another Laptop?
The COLORFUL X15 XS isn’t just a laptop. It’s a statement. A declaration that high-performance computing doesn’t need to empty your wallet.
Xiaomi 15 Series Launch Countdown: Get ready, tech enthusiasts! Xiaomi is about to drop a bombshell that will send shockwaves through the smartphone world. Mark your calendars for March 2, 2025 – the day Xiaomi rewrites the rules of mobile innovation.
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The Xiaomi 15 Series Launch Countdown Begins: A Global Tech Spectacle Awaits!
What’s the Buzz?
Xiaomi is set to unveil its most anticipated flagship series yet – the Xiaomi 15 Series. This isn’t just another smartphone launch; it’s a glimpse into the future of mobile technology.
Event Snapshot
Date: March 2, 2025
Time: 6:30 PM IST
Where: Xiaomi’s Official YouTube Channel
Don’t Miss: The Pinnacle of Photography Revealed!
Why This Launch Matters
Xiaomi has always been a trailblazer, and the Xiaomi 15 Series promises to be nothing short of revolutionary. Here’s why you should be excited:
Cutting-Edge Design: Pushing the boundaries of smartphone aesthetics
Unparalleled Performance: Next-level technology that sets new industry standards
Imaging Breakthrough: A photography experience that will redefine mobile imaging
This isn’t just a product launch. It’s Xiaomi’s commitment to pushing technological boundaries, delivering innovation that transforms how we interact with technology.
Pro Tips for the Launch Event
Grab your favorite snack
Ensure a stable internet connection
Prepare to be amazed
Share your excitement on social media with #Xiaomi15Series
Imagine a computer so compact it could slip into your messenger bag, yet powerful enough to transform how businesses operate. Meet the ASUS ExpertCenter PN54 – the mini PC that’s about to rewrite the rules of workplace technology.
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ASUS ExpertCenter PN54: The Future of Computing Fits in Your Palm
At just 130 x 130 x 34mm, the ExpertCenter PN54 is a testament to engineering marvel. But don’t let its size fool you. This tiny titan is packed with features that make traditional desktops look like relics:
Cutting-Edge AMD Ryzen AI 300 Series Processor
8 cores of pure processing power
Blazing-fast 5GHz boost frequency
Over 50% more on-chip memory
Graphics That Wow
AMD Radeon 800M graphics
11% improved 3D rendering performance
Smooth media editing at high frame rates
AI at Your Fingertips: More Than Just a Computer
The PN54 isn’t just a computer – it’s your AI-powered business companion. With up to 50 AI TOPS, it brings Microsoft Copilot+ features to life:
Recall: Instantly find messages, emails, and documents using natural language
Live Captions: Real-time translation across 44 languages
Cocreator: Generate stunning designs with simple text prompts
Connectivity That Connects Your World
Forget limitations. The ExpertCenter PN54 offers:
6 USB ports
Optional 2.5G LAN
Two DisplayPort interfaces (connect up to 4 4K displays!)
The ASUS ExpertCenter PN54 isn’t just a computer – it’s a glimpse into the future of business technology. Compact, powerful, and intelligent, it’s ready to revolutionize how we work.
Coming Worldwide in Q1 2025 – Stay Tuned!
Pro Tip: Contact your local ASUS representative to be among the first to experience this game-changing mini PC.
Windows ®11 Home/ Pro 24H2 Windows® 11 IoT Enterprise Windows® 11 Education
CPU
AMD Ryzen™ AI 7 350 AMD Ryzen™ AI 5 340
Chipset
Integrated
Graphics
Integrated AMD Radeon™ graphics
Memory
2 x DDR5 SO-DIMM (Max. 2 x 32GB)(Memory support may vary depending on CPU characteristics. Please check the Qualified Vendors List (QVL) for more details.)
Storage
2 x M.2 2280 PCIe® Gen 4×4 (supports 256GB – 2 TB NVMe® SSD)
1 x USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-C® (10G)2 x USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-A (10G)1 x audio jack (Line out/Mic in/Headphone out/Headset)1 x power button1 x Copilot button1 x fingerprint reader1 x Kensington lock
Rear I/O ports
1 x USB 4 Type-C® (supports DisplayPort™ 2.1 and 100-watt Power Delivery, max. speed 40Gbps / output power 5V 3A) 1 x USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-A (10Gbps) 1 x USB 2.0 Type-A (5Gbps) 1 x HDMI® 2.1 (FRL8) 2 x DisplayPort™ 1.4 (HBR3, max. speed 8.1Gbps) 1 x 2.5G RJ45 LAN (additional LAN port available as an option) 1 x DC in
Speakers
2 x 2-watt Sonic Master speaker
Power supply
120W adapter
Size
130 x 130 x 34mm (W x D x H)
Weight
0.55kg (barebone)
Accessories
AC adapterPower cord Screw pack User manual Warranty card Keyboard & mouse (optional) VESA mount (optional)
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is reportedly on the verge of canceling a $2.4 billion contract with Verizon and awarding it to SpaceX’s Starlink, marking a significant shift in the modernization of air traffic control communications. This move, if finalized, could spark controversy, given Elon Musk’s increasing influence within the FAA and the potential conflicts of interest involved.
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Starlink Set to Secure $2.4 Billion FAA Contract to Overhaul Air Traffic Control Communication
Why Is the FAA Considering Starlink Over Verizon?
Verizon initially secured the contract in 2023 to modernize the FAA’s aging communication infrastructure, but reports suggest the agency is now leaning toward handing the project to Starlink instead. The exact process remains unclear—whether Verizon will retain part of the contract or if it will be fully transferred to Starlink.
Starlink’s satellite-based communication technology offers some advantages over traditional fiber-optic infrastructure, potentially making it a more viable solution for the FAA’s long-term needs. However, the sudden shift in the contract raises questions about the decision-making process and whether proper procurement protocols are being followed.
Elon Musk’s Influence and the FAA Shakeup
Elon Musk has been vocal about what he sees as the FAA’s outdated communication systems, repeatedly claiming that they are on the brink of failure. He has warned that without immediate intervention, the system could face catastrophic issues within months. These statements, made on his social media platform X, have coincided with Starlink’s increased involvement within the FAA, with SpaceX employees reportedly working closely with agency officials.
Musk’s companies have long benefited from government contracts, with SpaceX, Tesla, and Starlink receiving an estimated $38 billion in public funding over the years. This latest move to potentially hand SpaceX a multibillion-dollar contract without a standard competitive bidding process has led to concerns about favoritism and conflicts of interest.
Industry Reactions and Legal Implications
Verizon has defended its ongoing work with the FAA, stating that it is still in the early stages of a multi-year contract designed to replace outdated systems. The company insists that its technology is ready for deployment and has been working closely with the FAA’s teams.
Meanwhile, industry experts caution that while Starlink may offer innovative solutions, bypassing regulatory processes to award such a massive contract could lead to legal challenges. Competing telecom providers and government watchdogs are likely to scrutinize the FAA’s decision if the contract transfer proceeds.
What’s Next?
The FAA has yet to make a formal announcement, but with Musk’s increasing involvement in federal agencies and his criticism of existing systems, a decision in Starlink’s favor seems increasingly likely. If approved, this contract could further solidify Starlink’s role in critical U.S. infrastructure while setting a precedent for how government contracts are awarded in the future.
FAQs
What is the FAA contract about?
It’s a $2.4 billion project to upgrade air traffic control communication.
Why is Starlink replacing Verizon?
The FAA is considering Starlink’s satellite technology over Verizon’s fiber-optic system.
India Begins Exporting Apple Components: In a landmark development, India has started exporting electronic components for Apple products to China and Vietnam. This shift marks a major step in Apple’s ongoing efforts to diversify its supply chain while strengthening India’s position as a global manufacturing hub.
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India Begins Exporting Apple Components to China, Vietnam
Key Players in India’s Apple Component Exports
Several Indian suppliers, including Motherson Group, Jabil, Aequs, and Tata Electronics, are now manufacturing mechanical components such as enclosures for MacBooks, AirPods, Apple Watches, Apple Pencils, and iPhones. These parts are then shipped to international assembly plants for final product integration.
A Role Reversal in the Global Supply Chain
Historically, India has been a major importer of electronic components, primarily from China and Vietnam. However, with this new development, the country is transitioning from being a consumer to a key contributor in Apple’s supply chain.
Apple’s Confidence in India’s Manufacturing Capabilities
Apple’s growing reliance on Indian suppliers highlights the country’s increasing manufacturing prowess. Companies like Jabil (AirPods components in Pune), Aequs (MacBook parts in Karnataka), and Tata Electronics (iPhone enclosures) are ramping up production to meet global demand.
Government Support and Future Growth
Industry experts predict India’s component exports could reach $35-40 billion by 2030, fueled by government initiatives like the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, which is set to invest over $3 billion in local manufacturing.
Strengthens India’s position in the global electronics supply chain
Reduces dependency on imports and boosts local manufacturing
Creates job opportunities and fosters technological advancements
As Apple continues shifting its supply chain beyond China, India is poised to become a major electronics manufacturing hub. This development signals a bright future for the country’s growing tech industry.
FAQs
What Apple products are being exported from India?
India exports components for MacBooks, AirPods, Apple Watches, Apple Pencils, and iPhones.
Which Indian companies supply Apple components?
Motherson Group, Jabil, Aequs, and Tata Electronics are key suppliers.
