Suryakumar Yadav, the Indian cricket captain, is under intense scrutiny as he leads the Men in Blue into a five-match T20 series against Australia. Despite India’s dominant performance in the recent Asia Cup, Yadav’s personal batting form has been a cause for concern. The 35-year-old, renowned for his explosive shot-making in the T20 format, managed only 72 runs across seven matches in the Asia Cup, averaging a meager 18. His struggles were overshadowed by India’s all-round superiority and their three consecutive victories over arch-rivals Pakistan, including a controversial final. However, as India prepares to face Australia, a formidable opponent and a precursor to next year’s T20 World Cup, Yadav’s form will be under the microscope. Critics who overlooked his poor performance in the Asia Cup are now questioning his place in the team. Yadav’s recent IPL 2025 campaign with the Mumbai Indians was stellar, amassing 717 runs at an average of 65.18 and a strike rate of 167.91. Yet, his international T20 form has been dismal, with no half-centuries in his last 14 innings. At the pre-match press conference, Yadav remained optimistic, stating, “I have had good practice sessions, and I am in a good space. Runs will come eventually, but the team’s goal is more important.” The Indian team management hopes Yadav can rediscover his magic as they face Australia, the world’s second-ranked T20 team, in what promises to be a high-stakes series.
标签： Asia
亚洲
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Three Dubai sisters empower Tanzanian students through Arise Foundation
At an age when most teenagers are still figuring out their life paths, three Dubai-based sisters—Inaya, Simar, and Rania Bhasin—are making a profound impact on communities in Tanzania through their non-profit organization, the Arise Foundation. Founded on the principles of ‘Educate, Empower, and Conserve,’ the foundation aims to uplift underprivileged students and communities, demonstrating how youthful energy and determination can drive global change. The sisters began their journey with small initiatives, such as organizing recycling drives in Dubai and selling artwork to raise funds. Their efforts have since evolved into structured programs addressing critical issues like education, food security, and environmental sustainability. Partnering with Diamond Trust Bank Tanzania Plc (DTB), the foundation has donated 100 desktop computers to Songoro Mnyonge School, revolutionizing teaching methods and enhancing students’ digital skills. Additionally, their women-led school lunch initiative provides daily nutritious meals to 1,300 students, significantly improving attendance and academic performance while empowering local women through employment. The sisters also launched the Adopt a Tree initiative, planting 135 seedlings to foster environmental awareness and climate resilience. Despite its youth, the Arise Foundation has already made a tangible impact, proving that young leaders can address global challenges with innovative solutions and optimism.
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Dubai Fitness Challenge: Free events, classes, full calendar for November 2025
The Dubai Fitness Challenge (DFC) is set to return for its ninth edition on November 1, 2025, promising a month-long extravaganza of free fitness activities designed to inspire and engage residents of all ages and abilities. Running until November 30, this city-wide initiative will feature an array of events, including four flagship mass-participation events, three fitness villages, over 25 community hubs, and thousands of classes across Dubai. Highlights include the Dubai Ride on November 2, where cyclists can choose between a family-friendly 4-km route or a challenging 12-km course along iconic landmarks. The Dubai Stand Up Paddle event on November 8 and 9 at Hatta Dam offers a mix of fitness and adventure, while the Dubai Run on November 23 transforms Sheikh Zayed Road into the world’s largest free community fun run. The Challenge concludes with the inaugural Dubai Yoga event on November 30, a mass yoga session at Zabeel Park. Additionally, three fitness villages at Kite Beach, Zabeel Park, and Al Warqa’a Park will offer a variety of activities, from beach sports to yoga and cycling, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Registration for these events is now open, making it easy for participants to join in and embrace a healthier lifestyle.
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Oil falls 2% as investors weigh Russia sanctions, OPEC+ output plans
Global oil prices experienced a 2% decline on Tuesday, marking a third consecutive day of losses as market participants assessed the implications of U.S. sanctions on Russia’s major oil firms and potential output adjustments by OPEC+. Brent crude futures fell by $1.36 (2.1%) to $64.26 per barrel, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude dropped $1.29 (2%) to $60.02. The downturn follows last week’s significant gains, driven by U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to impose Ukraine-related sanctions on Russia’s Lukoil and Rosneft, two of the country’s largest oil producers. However, Germany’s economy minister revealed that Rosneft’s German operations would be exempt from sanctions, easing immediate supply concerns. Phil Flynn, senior analyst at Price Futures Group, noted that the waiver introduced uncertainty, reducing fears of a dramatic supply squeeze. Meanwhile, Lukoil announced plans to sell its international assets, marking a significant response to Western sanctions. Indian refiners have paused new orders for Russian oil, awaiting clarity from the government and suppliers. OPEC+ is reportedly considering a modest output increase in December, raising questions about the group’s spare capacity. Saudi Aramco’s CEO highlighted robust crude demand, particularly from China, while analysts suggested that rising OPEC+ output could offset potential Russian supply disruptions. Investors are also monitoring potential U.S.-China trade developments, with Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping set to meet in South Korea later this week.
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7 killed in Israeli strikes on Gaza, Hamas postpones hostage body handover
In a tragic escalation of tensions, seven Palestinians, including children and an infant, were killed, and four others injured in Israeli airstrikes across the Gaza Strip on Tuesday evening, despite an ongoing ceasefire. The Palestinian Civil Defense reported the casualties, which occurred in separate incidents in Khan Younis and Gaza City. According to Mahmoud Basal, a spokesman for Gaza authorities, an Israeli strike targeted a vehicle on Al-Qassam Street in Khan Younis, killing five, while another strike hit a residential building in the al-Sabra neighborhood, killing two and injuring four. Rescue teams worked tirelessly to recover victims from the rubble. Hamas condemned the strikes as a ‘blatant violation of the ceasefire agreement,’ urging mediators to pressure Israel to halt its actions. Meanwhile, Hamas’s armed wing, the Al-Qassam Brigades, postponed the handover of an Israeli hostage’s body, citing Israeli violations of the ceasefire. The group discovered the body during search operations in a southern Gaza tunnel. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered ‘immediate and powerful’ strikes in response to alleged ceasefire breaches by Hamas. The conflict, which began in October 2023, has resulted in significant casualties, with over 68,000 dead and 170,000 wounded in Gaza. Since the latest ceasefire took effect on October 10, 94 Palestinians have been killed and 344 injured. Both sides continue to exchange blame, with Israel vowing a forceful response to any violations.
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Tata Group – the divided empire facing boardroom drama
The Tata Group, one of India’s most iconic conglomerates, is grappling with a series of internal and external challenges that threaten its stability and growth. A year after the passing of Ratan Tata, the visionary leader who transformed the group into a global powerhouse, the company is embroiled in a boardroom power struggle and facing significant business headwinds. The group, which owns renowned brands like Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) and Tetley Tea, is also navigating crises in its newer ventures, including semiconductors, electric vehicles, and the revival of Air India. Recent reports suggest that Mehli Mistry, a close confidant of Ratan Tata and a trustee on the board of Tata Trusts, has been ousted, though this remains unverified. The internal discord stems from disagreements among trustees over board nominations, funding approvals, and the potential public listing of Tata Sons, the group’s holding company. The SP Group, Tata Sons’ largest minority shareholder, is pushing for a public listing, while most trustees oppose the move, fearing it would dilute decision-making authority and expose the company to market pressures. The conflict has raised governance concerns and tarnished the group’s reputation, compounded by recent setbacks such as the Air India crash and a cyber-attack on JLR. Amid these challenges, the tenure of Tata Sons’ chairman, N Chandrasekaran, has reportedly been extended. Experts warn that the group’s current instability could have short-term destructive effects but may eventually lead to a more transparent and accountable structure.
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Israel’s Netanyahu orders immediate ‘powerful strikes’ on Gaza: PM office
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has directed the military to execute immediate and forceful strikes on the Gaza Strip, following allegations that Hamas breached a US-mediated ceasefire agreement. The decision was announced on Tuesday, October 28, after extensive security consultations. Netanyahu’s office released a statement confirming the order, emphasizing the need for a robust response to the ceasefire violation. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) subsequently launched a series of targeted attacks on Hamas positions in southern Gaza. Earlier reports indicated that Hamas had fired towards Israeli troops stationed behind the ‘yellow line,’ a demarcation established under the ceasefire terms. This incident marks at least the third violation since the ceasefire was implemented. The escalation underscores the fragile nature of the truce and raises concerns about renewed hostilities in the region.
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Israel lifts restrictions on communities near Gaza after security review
In a significant development, Israel has officially lifted restrictions on communities near the Gaza border, as announced by the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) on Tuesday, October 28, 2025. This decision follows a comprehensive situational assessment and formal approval from Defence Minister Israel Katz. The move marks the first time such measures have been revoked since the October 2023 Hamas attacks, which prompted the imposition of a state of emergency in the region. Katz’s office stated, ‘I have decided to adopt the (Israeli military’s) recommendation and to lift, for the first time since October 7, the special state on the home front.’ The decision reflects the improved security conditions in southern Israel, bolstered by a ceasefire that has largely held since its initiation on October 10. This step signals a gradual return to normalcy for residents in the affected areas, who have endured heightened security measures for over two years.
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Saudi’s Red Sea Global chief says alcohol ‘not essential’ to draw tourists
Saudi Arabia’s ambitious plans to diversify its oil-dependent economy through tourism and entertainment are progressing steadily, with alcohol remaining off the table. John Pagano, CEO of Red Sea Global, a key player in the kingdom’s tourism strategy, emphasized that the absence of alcohol would not hinder the country’s appeal to international visitors. Speaking at the Future Investment Initiative (FII) in Riyadh, Pagano stated, ‘Alcohol is not permitted in the kingdom. It’s as simple as that. People come for the experiences and to lead healthier lives. Alcohol is not essential for our success.’
Saudi Arabia, the birthplace of Islam and home to its holiest cities, Makkah and Madinah, has traditionally been a religious destination. However, since the introduction of tourist visas in 2019 and the launch of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Vision 2030 plan, the kingdom has been transforming into a global tourism hub. Despite this shift, the alcohol ban remains intact, with the exception of a single liquor store opened in January 2024, exclusively serving non-Muslim diplomats.
Pagano highlighted the kingdom’s significant investments in mega-projects, including entertainment, tourism, sports, and artificial intelligence. ‘The Public Investment Fund has committed $800 billion to tourism between now and 2030,’ he said, referencing the upcoming 2030 World Expo and the 2034 FIFA World Cup, both to be hosted in Saudi Arabia. Red Sea Global is spearheading the development of 27 hotels and resorts along the kingdom’s west coast, with ten already operational and the rest set to open by mid-2026. Pagano also expressed confidence in tapping into the lucrative market of Haj pilgrims, who visit Makkah annually. ‘Pilgrims come once in their lifetime, and we plan to capitalize on that,’ he added.
While the alcohol ban may deter some tourists, Pagano remains optimistic about Saudi Arabia’s ability to attract visitors through unique experiences and its rich cultural heritage. The kingdom’s focus on health-conscious tourism and its strategic investments in global events and infrastructure underscore its commitment to becoming a leading destination on the world stage.
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Adnoc Drilling posts 17% surge in nine-month profit
Adnoc Drilling has announced a significant 17% increase in net profit for the first nine months of 2025, reaching $1.06 billion. This growth is attributed to heightened activity across onshore, offshore, and integrated drilling services. Revenue for the period soared by 27% to $3.63 billion, driven by improved rig utilization, expanded unconventional drilling programs, and a sharp rise in integrated drilling services. Free cash flow surged by 174% to $1.2 billion, enabling the company to enhance shareholder returns while investing in fleet expansion and technological advancements. Return on equity stood at 36%, and return on capital employed at 25%, reflecting the company’s operational efficiency and robust margins. CEO Abdulla Ateya Al Messabi highlighted the disciplined execution and resilience of Adnoc Drilling’s contract model, emphasizing plans for transformational growth. The company aims to expand unconventional capacity to over 300 wells annually and grow its integrated drilling services fleet to approximately 70 rigs by 2026. These initiatives are expected to generate billions in new revenue streams, supported by in-house technical capabilities and a transition to becoming an AI-native company. Onshore revenue increased by 13% to $1.52 billion, while offshore jack-up and island drilling revenue reached $1.04 billion. Oilfield services revenue skyrocketed by 114% to $1.07 billion. Shareholders will benefit from a third-quarter dividend of $250 million, with the company targeting a minimum of $6.8 billion in distributions between 2025 and 2030. Adnoc Drilling is also advancing strategic initiatives, including joint ventures in Kuwait and Oman, and accelerating AI and automation adoption across fleet operations. Looking ahead, the company anticipates revenue of around $5 billion in 2026 and aims to expand its fleet to over 151 rigs by 2028.