South Africa delivered a historic performance in Guwahati, securing a commanding 408-run victory over India in the second Test. This triumph marked their first series win in India since 2000 and completed a 2-0 series sweep. The Proteas, led by captain Temba Bavuma, have now won 11 of their last 12 Tests, solidifying their status as a dominant force in Test cricket. The victory also propelled them to second place in the World Test Championship standings, while India dropped to fifth. South Africa’s spinners, particularly Simon Harmer, who claimed six wickets, played a pivotal role in dismantling India’s batting lineup. Ravindra Jadeja’s resilient 54 was the only notable resistance from the hosts. The defeat marks India’s second home series loss in two years, raising concerns about their Test cricket strategy under head coach Gautam Gambhir. Critics, including former players and commentators, have questioned India’s tactics and player readiness, with Venkatesh Prasad labeling their approach as ‘rank poor tactics.’ India’s next Test series is scheduled for August 2025 in Sri Lanka, followed by the T20 World Cup in February 2026, co-hosted with Sri Lanka.
标签： Africa
非洲
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Twenty-four Nigerian schoolgirls released over a week after abduction
In a significant development, 24 Nigerian schoolgirls abducted from the Government Girls Comprehensive Senior Secondary School (GGCSS) in Kebbi State on November 17 have been released, according to President Bola Tinubu. The armed assailants who stormed the school killed one staff member and initially took 25 students, one of whom managed to escape shortly after the incident. While the president lauded the security forces for their “swift response,” details surrounding the girls’ release remain undisclosed. This incident is part of a broader wave of kidnappings plaguing Nigeria, with over 250 children abducted from a Catholic school in Niger State still missing as of last Friday. A presidential adviser confirmed that all the Kebbi State girls are now safe but warned that the incident has inspired copycat kidnappings in two other states. Tinubu has pledged to deploy additional personnel to vulnerable areas and enhance surveillance efforts, including continuous Air Force monitoring of remote regions. Since the infamous Chibok mass abduction in 2014, more than 1,500 children have been kidnapped from Nigerian schools. The recent spate of abductions, including the St Mary’s School incident where 300 children and staff were taken, has drawn sharp criticism from religious leaders and international figures. UN education envoy Gordon Brown urged the global community to support efforts to ensure Nigerian schools remain safe spaces for learning.
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Fans from 105 countries expected to attend Abu Dhabi Grand Prix
Abu Dhabi’s Yas Marina Circuit is finalizing preparations for what promises to be the most internationally diverse Formula One event in its history. With just days remaining until the season finale from December 4-7, organizers anticipate surpassing last year’s attendance record of 192,000 spectators as fans converge from 105 different countries.
The championship approaches its climax with an unprecedented three-way battle between Lando Norris, Oscar Piastri, and Max Verstappen. With merely 24 points separating the current leader Norris from his rivals and 58 championship points remaining across the final two rounds, the title decision will likely occur on Yas Marina’s challenging 5.28km track.
Event organizer Ethara has transformed the Grand Prix into the region’s premier sporting spectacle, combining world-class racing with an entertainment program featuring eight headline musical acts. The 2025 lineup represents the most ambitious in the event’s history, featuring performances by Post Malone, Metallica, Katy Perry, Calvin Harris, and other international stars across multiple venues.
CEO Saif Al Noaimi emphasized the event’s significance: “Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is the most anticipated weekend on the region’s sporting calendar. The 2025 event promises to be remarkable with more fans, more racing, and exciting new experiences on and off the track.”
The operational scale involves over 40,000 professionals from UAE-based companies, including temporary structure construction teams, hospitality providers, and volunteer staff. Sustainability initiatives mark significant advancements this year, with the elimination of single-use plastic bottles and cups across all venues, replaced by sustainable alternatives and complimentary water stations. These measures support Ethara’s commitment to reduce Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 50% before 2030 and transition to fully renewable energy by 2035.
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New Year’s Eve in Dubai: Prices go up to Dh12,000 for front seat view of Burj Khalifa
As New Year’s Eve approaches, Dubai is gearing up for its annual spectacle, with premium dining experiences offering front-row views of the Burj Khalifa fireworks commanding prices as high as Dh12,000 per person. Restaurants in Souq Al Bahar and Dubai Mall are already seeing a surge in bookings, with exclusive packages that include gourmet meals, champagne, and unobstructed views of the iconic display. Günaydin restaurant, for instance, offers a Dh12,000 package per person, while other venues like The Meat Co and Mausum provide varying options ranging from Dh3,000 to Dh8,500. For those seeking a more casual experience, eateries like Five Guys and TGI Friday offer outdoor seating with views of the fireworks for Dh1,900 to Dh3,000 per person. Meanwhile, free public viewing areas around Downtown Dubai will be available on a first-come, first-served basis, complemented by LED screens broadcasting the live show. Emaar has also announced an eight-day mega celebration starting December 31, with tickets to Burj Park priced at Dh997.5 for adults and Dh577.50 for children. Early interest in these premium experiences has been notable, with enquiries beginning as early as October, highlighting the city’s reputation as a global hub for luxury and entertainment.
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Dubai to deliver 10 million meals to support Palestinians in Gaza
Dubai is spearheading a monumental humanitarian effort to deliver 10 million meals to Palestinians in Gaza, addressing their urgent needs and alleviating their suffering. The initiative, organized by the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI), will see the meals transported aboard the Mohammed bin Rashid Humanitarian Ship, in collaboration with Operation Chivalrous Knight 3. Community members are encouraged to volunteer and assist in meal preparation on December 7 at the Dubai Exhibition Centre in Expo City. Interested individuals can register at www.MBRship.ae. This campaign highlights the UAE’s unwavering commitment to humanitarian aid and solidarity with the Palestinian people. Mohammad Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs and Secretary-General of MBRGI, emphasized the UAE’s dedication to supporting those in need, stating that the initiative symbolizes the nation’s generosity and belief in turning pain into hope. The effort builds on MBRGI’s broader pledge, announced in January 2024, to provide Dh43 million in direct food aid to one million people in Gaza, in partnership with the World Food Programme. This follows earlier commitments, including Dh50 million in urgent aid directed by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum in 2023 and a September 2024 shipment of 71.6 tonnes of medical supplies to Gaza via Egypt’s El Arish port.
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I like my players fighting each other, says Moyes, after Gueye sees red
In a dramatic turn of events, Everton secured a historic 1-0 victory against Manchester United at Old Trafford, marking their first Premier League win at the venue in 12 years. The match, however, was overshadowed by an unusual incident involving Everton midfielder Idrissa Gueye, who was sent off just 13 minutes into the game for slapping his own teammate, Michael Keane, following a heated exchange. This rare occurrence marked only the third time in Premier League history that a player has been dismissed for a confrontation with a teammate, the last instance dating back to 2008. Despite the early setback, Everton managed to clinch the win with a stunning goal by Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, becoming the first team to win at Old Trafford after having a player sent off. Everton manager David Moyes, who had previously failed to win a league game at Old Trafford in 17 attempts as a visiting manager, downplayed the incident, stating that he appreciates the passion and intensity of his players. ‘I quite like my own players fighting each other and getting annoyed with each other because of a bad ball or someone didn’t do the right action,’ Moyes said. ‘If you want a winning team, with the resilience and toughness that got us the result, then I think you’ve got to have players that are going to react in that way.’ Gueye later apologized for his actions on social media, taking full responsibility and vowing to ensure such behavior never happens again. Moyes praised his team’s resilience and the unwavering support of the fans, emphasizing the significance of the victory under challenging circumstances.
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Russian mercenaries accused of cold-blooded killings in Mali – BBC speaks to eyewitnesses
A harrowing account from a Malian shopkeeper has revealed the brutal tactics employed by Russian mercenaries in Mali, highlighting a campaign of terror that has left the local population traumatized. The shopkeeper, identified as Ahmed, described witnessing the cold-blooded murder of two men by Wagner Group fighters, who then threatened to sever his fingers and kill him. This testimony is part of a broader investigation by the BBC into the operations of Russian mercenaries in Mali, which has drawn widespread condemnation from human rights groups.
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Dubai gets new 200,000 sqft South Bay Mall with lagoon views, food hall, gym and more
Dubai is set to welcome a new retail and lifestyle destination with the launch of South Bay Mall, a 200,000 sq.ft. development located in the heart of the Dubai South Residential District. Strategically positioned within the flagship mixed-use waterfront development of South Bay, the mall promises to elevate the lifestyle of residents and visitors alike. Spanning ground, first, and rooftop levels, the mall offers breathtaking panoramic views of the lagoon and features open-air walkways, creating a unique shopping and leisure experience. The mall will house 60 retail units, two anchor stores, and a premium food hall, alongside outdoor leisure spaces, a clubhouse, gym, spa, clinic, and parking for over 400 vehicles. Designed as a dynamic lifestyle hub, South Bay Mall complements the broader South Bay community, which includes over 800 villas and townhouses, 200 waterfront mansions, a kilometer-long lagoon, waterfront promenades, lush parks, and private beaches. Khalifa Al Zaffin, Executive Chairman of Dubai Aviation City Corporation and Dubai South, emphasized the mall’s role in creating an integrated destination that enriches lives and supports Dubai South’s vision of becoming a future-ready city. The development aligns with the region’s goal of accommodating one million residents upon the completion of Al Maktoum International Airport.
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Support for Kenyan school welcomed by students
In a significant move to enhance educational opportunities in one of Kenya’s largest slums, the Chinese Embassy in Kenya and the Kenya-China Economic and Trade Association (KCETA) have donated $84,800 to MCEDO Beijing School in Nairobi. This funding will facilitate comprehensive upgrades to the school’s facilities, including classroom renovations, improved lighting systems, modern desks, and essential educational materials. Established in 2007 with initial funding from the Chinese Embassy, the school has seen a steady increase in student numbers, now nearing 600, thanks to ongoing support from Chinese entities. Benedict Kiage, the school’s director, highlighted the transformative impact of this support, noting the addition of science laboratory equipment and instructional materials that attract more students seeking quality education. Student representative Latifah Natasha Omondi expressed heartfelt gratitude, emphasizing the improved safety and aesthetics of the school environment. Chinese Ambassador Guo Haiyan underscored the broader significance of the school’s development, framing it as a testament to the enduring friendship and shared future between China and Kenya. KCETA Chairman Yu Xiaodong reaffirmed the association’s commitment to continuous support, urging students to aspire to become future contributors to both their nation and the bilateral relationship.
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UAE: Petrofac employees receive 19-day salary, end of benefits still uncertain
Former employees of Petrofac, who were part of the November 19 layoffs, have received their salaries for the 19 days worked in November. While this partial payment has provided short-term relief, many are still awaiting clarity on their full-and-final settlement, including notice-period salaries and end-of-service benefits. Employees expressed concerns over how they will manage upcoming expenses such as rent, school fees, and household bills without the expected three-month notice-period payout. According to UAE labor rules, terminated staff are entitled to a three-month notice-period salary, but Petrofac has only paid for the 19 days worked in November. Employees were informed that the full settlement process would take up to 14 days from the date of termination, with a detailed statement of account expected by December 3. This statement will cover all dues, including airfares, leave balances, and any remaining payments. Until then, employees remain in a state of uncertainty, unable to plan their next steps. Petrofac has been facing operational and financial challenges in recent months, leading to multiple rounds of restructuring. The company has not issued an official statement regarding the concerns raised by former employees. Khaleej Times attempted to reach Petrofac for comment, but multiple calls went unanswered. The lack of clarity on gratuity payouts, leave encashments, and notice-period salaries has added to the financial stress for families with long-term commitments in the UAE.