Women’s World Cup, formidable Australia meet struggling Pakistan: Match preview

**Women’s World Cup 2025: Formidable Australia Meet Struggling Pakistan – Match Preview**

*By Gaurav Tripathi | October 7, 2025, 04:59 PM*

The ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 continues as Australia faces Pakistan in Match No. 9 at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on October 8. Australia enters this game buoyed by an impressive win against New Zealand in their opener, although their last match against Sri Lanka was washed out. On the other hand, Pakistan has had a tough start to the tournament, losing their first two games to India and Bangladesh.

### Match Details

– **Date & Time:** October 8, 3:00 PM IST
– **Venue:** R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo
– **Broadcast:** Live on Star Sports Network and JioHotstar app/website

The R. Premadasa Stadium is known for its bowling-friendly pitches, which typically result in low-scoring matches. Fast bowlers can expect some early assistance, while spinners are likely to play a crucial role as the game progresses.

### Australia: Looking to Build Momentum

Despite some key players—opener Alyssa Healy, Beth Mooney, and Annabel Sutherland—not firing at their usual best, Ashleigh Gardner’s explosive century against New Zealand helped Australia secure a dominant victory. This match against Pakistan offers Australia a chance to fine-tune their strategies before taking on tougher opponents like England, India, and South Africa later in the tournament.

### Pakistan: Facing Several Challenges

Pakistan has struggled so far, with losses against both Bangladesh and India. Currently positioned at the bottom of the eight-team table, Pakistan’s batting depth remains a major concern. Their innings have been low-scoring, with team totals of 129 and 159 in their recent matches. Key players including Sidra Amin, Fatima Sana, and Muneeba Ali have yet to find consistent form in the tournament.

### Head-to-Head: Australia’s Dominance

The head-to-head record overwhelmingly favors Australia. The two teams have met 16 times in Women’s ODIs, with Australia winning every encounter. There has never been a no-result between them. Their first meeting dates back to February 7, 1997, and their latest clash occurred on January 21, 2023. Notably, five of these matches have been staged during World Cups.

### Probable Playing XIs

**Australia**
– Alyssa Healy (c & wk)
– Phoebe Litchfield
– Ellyse Perry
– Beth Mooney
– Annabel Sutherland
– Ashleigh Gardner
– Tahlia McGrath
– Sophie Molineux
– Kim Garth
– Alana King
– Darcie Brown

**Pakistan**
– Muneeba Ali
– Sadaf Shamas
– Sidra Amin
– Aliya Riaz
– Natalia Pervaiz
– Fatima Sana (c)
– Sidra Nawaz (wk)
– Rameen Shamim
– Diana Baig
– Nashra Sandhu
– Sadia Iqbal

### Key Performers to Watch

– **Sophie Molineux** claimed a valuable three-wicket haul against New Zealand and boasts 26 WODI wickets at an impressive average of 13.69.
– **Ashleigh Gardner** scored her century off just 77 deliveries versus New Zealand, the third-fastest in tournament history and the quickest by an Australian batter.
– **Nashra Sandhu** made history last month by becoming the first left-arm Asian spinner to take a six-wicket haul in Women’s ODI cricket.
– With 599 runs at an average of 74.87, **Sidra Amin** is Pakistan’s leading run-scorer in WODIs this year.

### Fan Poll

Will Beth Mooney cross the 50-run mark in this clash? Share your thoughts!

Stay tuned for more updates as Australia and Pakistan lock horns in what promises to be an exciting contest at the Women’s World Cup 2025.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/women-s-world-cup-australia-vs-pakistan-preview-and-stats/story

Listing South African batters with hundreds at Women’s World Cup

**South African Batters with Hundreds at the Women’s World Cup**
*By Gaurav Tripathi | Oct 07, 2025, 03:42 pm*

South Africa recently registered a convincing six-wicket victory over New Zealand in the ongoing ICC Women’s World Cup. The match, held at Indore’s Holkar Stadium, saw Tazmin Brits deliver a brilliant century as her side comfortably chased down the target of 232 runs.

Brits’ exceptional knock of 101 makes her the first woman cricketer to score five WODI hundreds in a calendar year. In this article, we take a look at South African batters who have scored hundreds in the Women’s World Cup.

### #3 Tazmin Brits – 101 vs New Zealand, 2025
In the recent game against New Zealand, South Africa’s chase was masterfully led by Tazmin Brits. She scored an impressive 101 runs off just 89 balls, including 15 fours and 1 six. Brits was ably supported by Sune Luus, who remained unbeaten on 83.

The duo put together a crucial 159-run partnership for the second wicket, sealing the victory for South Africa. The Proteas finished on 234/4 with 9.1 overs to spare.

### #2 Marizanne Kapp – 102* vs Pakistan, 2013
Marizanne Kapp was outstanding in the 2013 Women’s World Cup match against Pakistan held in Cuttack, India. Batting on a challenging surface, South Africa found themselves struggling at 9/2 when Kapp came to the crease.

She steadied the innings and played a solid knock, finishing unbeaten on 102 runs off 150 deliveries, with 11 fours. Her innings was pivotal in South Africa posting a total of 207/5. The team went on to win the match by a huge margin of 126 runs. Kapp also shared an unbeaten 128-run partnership for the sixth wicket with Dane van Niekerk, who scored 55*.

### #1 Linda Olivier – 101* vs Ireland, 2000
The first South African woman to score a hundred in the Women’s World Cup was former opener Linda Olivier. This memorable innings came in the 2000 World Cup match against Ireland in Christchurch.

Asked to chase a target of 178 runs, Olivier led the Proteas’ charge with a fine 117-run opening partnership alongside Hanri Strydom, who scored 46. Olivier remained unbeaten on 101 runs off 117 balls, hitting 10 fours and guiding South Africa to a comfortable nine-wicket victory.

These remarkable innings have contributed significantly to South Africa’s journey in the Women’s World Cup, setting high standards for future generations of batters.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/south-african-batters-with-hundreds-at-the-women-s-world-cup/story

Could Navi Mumbai airport be linked to BKC via tunnel?

By Dwaipayan Roy | Oct 07, 2025, 04:23 PM

**Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister Proposes Tunnel Connecting Mumbai to Navi Mumbai International Airport**

Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has directed the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) to prepare a detailed feasibility report for a proposed tunnel that would connect Mumbai with the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport. This initiative aims to enhance travel convenience and alleviate congestion once the airport becomes operational.

The new airport, scheduled to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is expected to handle up to two crore passengers annually, marking a significant boost to the region’s aviation capacity.

### Airport Launch and Inauguration Ceremony

The inauguration ceremony is set for tomorrow, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, and Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar in attendance. The first commercial flight from the airport is anticipated to take off in December.

Officials have warned of a substantial increase in traffic following the airport’s commencement, which may put additional pressure on the existing road infrastructure.

### Strengthening Connectivity: Integrated Transport Network

To address these challenges, the government is exploring innovative ways to improve connectivity between Mumbai and Navi Mumbai. Deputy Chief Minister Shinde emphasized the need for an integrated transport network that links the new airport with suburban rail, metro corridors, and waterways.

“To ensure seamless movement, the deputy chief minister has instructed the MMRDA Commissioner to study the feasibility of constructing a tunnel connecting the Bandra-Worli Sea Link and Bandra Kurla Complex to Navi Mumbai Airport,” stated an official release.

### Transport Integration with High-Speed Rail

In addition, Shinde has asked officials to examine the possibility of integrating the Mumbai-Ahmedabad high-speed rail project with major regional transport hubs. Key stations under consideration include the Mhatardi bullet train station in Thane, Kopar railway station, and Taloja Metro station.

The Mhatardi station, currently under construction in Diva, is planned as a significant transport hub that will connect bullet trains, suburban trains, metro routes, and highways. This integration aims to provide seamless connectivity across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.

The proposed infrastructure developments are poised to transform regional travel by creating a comprehensive, interconnected transport system, ensuring easier access to the new Navi Mumbai International Airport and supporting the city’s growing transportation needs.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/india/shinde-asks-mmrda-to-study-feasibility-of-mumbai-navi-mumbai-tunnel/story

Women’s World Cup, formidable Australia meet struggling Pakistan: Match preview

**Women’s World Cup 2025: Formidable Australia Meet Struggling Pakistan – Match Preview**

*By Gaurav Tripathi | October 7, 2025 | 4:59 PM*

The ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 continues to deliver thrilling encounters as Australia is set to take on Pakistan in Match No. 9 at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on October 8.

Australia enter this fixture buoyed by an impressive victory over New Zealand in their tournament opener. However, their momentum was slightly hampered when their subsequent game against Sri Lanka was washed out. On the other hand, Pakistan has had a challenging start, suffering defeats at the hands of India and Bangladesh in their opening two matches.

### Match Details
– **Date:** October 8, 2025
– **Venue:** R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo
– **Start Time:** 3:00 PM IST
– **Broadcast:** Live on Star Sports Network and JioHotstar app/website

### Pitch Report
The R. Premadasa Stadium traditionally offers a bowling-friendly surface, where recent matches have been low-scoring affairs. Fast bowlers can expect to extract some early assistance, while spinners typically become more influential as the game progresses. Teams batting second might find it challenging on this pitch.

### Australia: Building Momentum
Despite some key players like opener Alyssa Healy, Beth Mooney, and Annabel Sutherland not firing at full strength, Ashleigh Gardner’s scintillating century against New Zealand helped Australia dominate comfortably. This match against Pakistan offers the Women in Yellow an opportunity to fine-tune their strategies ahead of tougher challenges from England, India, and South Africa later in the tournament.

### Pakistan: Challenges Continue
Pakistan’s campaign has been fraught with difficulties. Back-to-back losses to India and Bangladesh have left them at the bottom of the points table in the eight-team competition. Batting depth remains a major concern; their totals of 129 and 159 in the last two matches highlight their struggles. Key players such as Sidra Amin, Fatima Sana, and Muneeba Ali have yet to find consistent form.

### Head-to-Head Record
Australia completely dominates the head-to-head record against Pakistan. According to ESPNcricinfo, in 16 Women’s ODIs played between the two sides, Australia has emerged victorious every time without a single no-result. Their first encounter dates back to February 7, 1997, with the latest clash occurring on January 21, 2023. Five of these matches have taken place during previous World Cups.

### Probable Playing XIs

**Australia:**
Alyssa Healy (c & wk), Phoebe Litchfield, Ellyse Perry, Beth Mooney, Annabel Sutherland, Ashleigh Gardner, Tahlia McGrath, Sophie Molineux, Kim Garth, Alana King, Darcie Brown.

**Pakistan:**
Muneeba Ali, Sadaf Shamas, Sidra Amin, Aliya Riaz, Natalia Pervaiz, Fatima Sana (c), Sidra Nawaz (wk), Rameen Shamim, Diana Baig, Nashra Sandhu, Sadia Iqbal.

### Key Players and Stats to Watch

– Sophie Molineux impressed with a three-wicket haul against New Zealand and boasts 26 WODI wickets at an exceptional average of 13.69.
– Ashleigh Gardner’s century against New Zealand came off just 77 balls, marking the third-fastest century in Women’s World Cup history and the quickest by an Australian.
– Nashra Sandhu made history last month by becoming the first left-arm Asian spinner to claim a six-wicket haul in a Women’s ODI.
– Sidra Amin is Pakistan’s top run-scorer this year in WODIs, amassing 599 runs at an impressive average of 74.87.

### Fan Poll
Will Beth Mooney score 50 or more runs in this match? Share your predictions in the comments below!

Stay tuned as these two teams prepare to lock horns in what promises to be an intriguing contest in the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/women-s-world-cup-australia-vs-pakistan-preview-and-stats/story

John Clarke, Michel H Devoret & John M Martinis Bag Nobel Prize For Physics For Breakthroughs In Quantum Tunneling & Energy Quantisation

The 2025 Nobel Prize in Physics has been awarded to John Clarke, Michel H. Devoret, and John M. Martinis “for the discovery of macroscopic quantum mechanical tunnelling and energy quantisation in an electric circuit.”

The Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences, which announced the award, highlighted the groundbreaking nature of the laureates’ work. The trio conducted a series of experiments demonstrating that the unusual characteristics of the quantum realm can be observed in a system large enough to hold in one’s hand.

According to the announcement, “Their superconducting electrical system was capable of tunnelling from one state to another, as though it were passing directly through a barrier. They also established that the system absorbed and released energy in specific increments, precisely as quantum mechanics predicts.”

Last year, the Nobel Prize in Physics was awarded to John Hopfield and Geoffrey Hinton for their pioneering use of physics-based tools to develop methods that form the foundation of modern machine learning. Hopfield created an associative memory capable of storing and reconstructing images and other data patterns, while Hinton developed a technique that autonomously identifies properties within data, enabling it to recognize specific elements in images.

In other 2025 Nobel announcements earlier this week, Mary Brunkow, Fred Ramsdell, and Shimon Sakaguchi received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine. They were honored for their groundbreaking research on peripheral immune tolerance — a mechanism that allows the immune system to fight harmful microorganisms while avoiding attacks on the body’s own cells.

The Nobel Prizes are also awarded in chemistry, literature, and peace, each accompanied by a monetary reward of 11 million Swedish kronor (approximately $1.2 million). Beyond the financial aspect, receiving a Nobel Prize bestows immediate international recognition, a prestigious accolade that remains out of reach for the vast majority of scientists worldwide.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/world/john-clarke-michel-h-devoret-john-m-martinis-bag-nobel-prize-for-physics-for-breakthroughs-in-quantum-tunneling-energy-quantisation

‘Let her be a kid’: A girl’s life two years on from Hamas captivity

‘Let her be a kid’: A girl’s life two years on from Hamas captivity

Avigail was just three years old when Hamas terrorists rampaged through her kibbutz, Kfar Aza. On that tragic day, her parents were among the 1,200 people killed in the attack.

Abigail Idan, who was taken hostage during the October 7 attack on Israel by the terrorist group Hamas, was later released. In a poignant moment captured on November 27, 2023, she smiles while sitting on the lap of her aunt Liron at Schneider Children’s Medical Center.

https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/defense-news/article-869676

Death toll rises to 13 in MP as another toddler succumbs to death

The Chief Medical Health Officer (CMHO) of Chhindwara district, Naresh Gonnade, highlighted the severity of the ongoing crisis, stating, “This marks the 13th confirmed child fatality,” as reported by news agency IANS. However, when asked whether the recent death was linked to the toxic cough syrup, he remained silent. His silence speaks volumes about the grim situation surrounding the cough syrup tragedy in the tribal heartland of Chhindwara.

In recent days, the toxic cough syrup has claimed the lives of several young children aged between one and eight years. Despite the growing number of fatalities, the state government has not officially disclosed the exact toll connected to the contaminated syrup.

Among the victims was Dhani, a frail young girl suffering from a persistent cough and cold. According to her parents, she was prescribed the “deadly” syrup by Dr. Praveen Soni during a consultation at his private clinic in Parasia just days before her condition worsened. As Dhani’s health deteriorated, her parents rushed her to the local Community Health Centre on September 26, where she exhibited severe dehydration and oliguria — clear signs of kidney failure.

The CMHO further stated, “She was under treatment at Nagpur Medical College and died Monday night,” according to IANS. After being transferred to Government Medical College and Hospital (GMCH) in Nagpur amid poisoning suspicions, the toddler bravely fought for 11 days on dialysis and ventilator support but eventually succumbed to multi-organ failure. A doctor from Nagpur, speaking to IANS on condition of anonymity, confirmed the severity of her condition.

Toxicology reports confirmed the presence of diethylene glycol (DEG) in the syrup. DEG is a lethal industrial solvent commonly found in brake fluids and antifreeze. The concentration of DEG in the contaminated batch measured a staggering 48.6%, far exceeding safe limits.

Dr. Praveen Soni, a government paediatrician at the Community Health Centre in Parasia who was also practicing privately, has been in police custody since his arrest on October 5. He faces charges under Sections 105 and 276 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for culpable homicide and drug adulteration.

The First Information Report (FIR) filed at Parasia police station further implicates Sresan Pharmaceuticals, based in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu. This company has been blacklisted nationwide due to prior issues.

Following the tragedy and widespread public outrage across Maharashtra, authorities flagged three more cough syrup brands on Monday after detecting similar DEG traces. This has broadened the ongoing investigation, as reported by IANS.

This toxic cough syrup crisis echoes a darker history, reminiscent of the 1986 Mumbai hospital tragedy in which contaminated syrup led to the deaths of 14 children, as documented by IANS.

Since late August, 16 children—primarily from Parasia and Tamia blocks—have died under similar circumstances, with ten having received treatment in Nagpur alone.

In response to the crisis, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav announced an ex gratia payment of Rs 4 lakh to the families of the deceased and promised free treatment for survivors. He has also vowed to form a Special Investigation Team (SIT) tasked with uncovering lapses in the syrup’s supply chain. “This is unforgivable negligence; no child should pay with their life for substandard drugs,” he declared forcefully.

The state government has taken strict administrative actions by suspending two drug inspectors and a deputy director, and transferring the drug controller. Maharashtra and Punjab have also imposed preemptive bans on the cough syrup brand Coldrif.

At the central level, the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) has launched raids across six states, cautioning healthcare practitioners against prescribing paediatric syrups for children under five years of age.

Telangana’s Drugs Control department echoed similar warnings after linking three recent deaths in Rajasthan to the same toxic syrup.

As investigations continue, authorities emphasize vigilance and strict regulatory oversight to prevent further tragedies linked to contaminated medicines.
https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/death-toll-rises-to-13-in-mp-as-another-toddler-succumbs-under-cough-syrup-horror-23597600

4 big ways ‘The X-Files’ distorts government operations

**4 Big Ways ‘The X-Files’ Distorts Government Operations**
*By Vinita Jain | Oct 07, 2025, 10:54 AM*

*What’s the story?*
*The X-Files* is a cult classic, famous for its take on government conspiracies and the paranormal. While the series makes for an entertaining watch, it often takes creative liberties with how real-world government operations work. Here are some of the most notable ways the show misrepresents government conspiracies—and how those portrayals differ from reality.

**1. Overemphasis on Secrecy**
*The X-Files* frequently depicts government operations as being shrouded in extreme secrecy, with very little oversight. While it’s true that some operations are classified, in reality, there are numerous checks and balances designed to ensure accountability. Government actions are typically subject to scrutiny by various oversight bodies—something the show seldom reflects.

**2. Simplified Narratives**
The series tends to reduce complex issues into simple, clear-cut narratives of good versus evil. However, real-world government decisions and actions are influenced by a multitude of factors and involve many stakeholders. This oversimplification can lead viewers to misunderstand the complexities involved in governance and policy-making.

**3. Dramatic Portrayals of Technology**
Technology in *The X-Files* is often portrayed as far more advanced than it actually is or available to the public. While this adds to the suspense and intrigue of the show, it does not accurately represent the current state of technological development or its realistic limitations within government operations.

**4. Focus on Individual Agents**
The series spotlights individual agents who seem to have significant control over major government decisions. In reality, most government actions result from teamwork and collaboration across various departments and officials. This focus on individuals can give the false impression that one person wields more power than is typical within the larger system.

While *The X-Files* remains a beloved show for its storytelling and mysterious themes, it’s important to recognize these creative liberties to better understand how government operations actually function.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/how-the-x-files-misrepresents-government-conspiracies/story

4 big ways ‘The X-Files’ distorts government operations

**4 Big Ways ‘The X-Files’ Distorts Government Operations**
*By Vinita Jain | Oct 07, 2025, 10:54 AM*

*What’s the story?*
_The X-Files_ is a cult classic renowned for its intriguing take on government conspiracies and the paranormal. While the series offers great entertainment, it often takes creative liberties in portraying how real-world government operations actually work. Here are four notable ways the show misrepresents government activities and how these differ from reality.

### 1. Overemphasis on Secrecy
_The X-Files_ frequently depicts government operations as being enveloped in extreme secrecy with little to no oversight. In reality, although some operations are classified, there are numerous checks and balances designed to ensure accountability. Government actions are typically subject to scrutiny by various oversight bodies — a safeguard that the show largely overlooks or underrepresents.

### 2. Simplified Narratives
The series tends to present complex issues as straightforward battles between good and evil. However, government decisions and actions in the real world are rarely so black-and-white. They are influenced by a multitude of factors and involve many stakeholders, making policymaking and governance far more nuanced. This simplification can mislead viewers about the intricacies involved in governmental processes.

### 3. Dramatic Portrayals of Technology
In _The X-Files_, technology is often depicted as far more advanced—or accessible—than it truly is. While such portrayals heighten suspense and intrigue, they do not accurately reflect the current state of technological development or its real-world limitations within government operations.

### 4. Focus on Individual Agents
The show spotlights individual agents who appear to wield significant control over major government decisions. In contrast, actual government actions typically emerge from collaboration and teamwork among numerous departments and officials. This individual-centric focus can give viewers an exaggerated impression of a single person’s power within the complex government system.

While _The X-Files_ remains an iconic and entertaining journey into the mysterious, it’s important to remember that its portrayal of government operations is shaped by storytelling rather than strict realism. Understanding these distinctions helps viewers appreciate the show’s creativity without conflating fiction with fact.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/how-the-x-files-misrepresents-government-conspiracies/story

Bringing Yuval home: Kfar Aza son, October 7 victim laid to rest in his beloved kibbutz

Bringing Yuval Home: Kfar Aza Son and October 7 Victim Laid to Rest in His Beloved Kibbutz

Yuval’s dream was to live his whole life in Kfar Aza, said one of his friends. Bringing him back home fulfills his lifelong wish.

Former hostage Emily Damari, Yuval’s friend and neighbor, eulogized him surrounded by his family and close friends.

(Photo credit: Amiram Oren)

By JUDITH SEGALOFF

https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-869221