Analysis: Can Australia defend their Women’s World Cup title?

Posted on 27/09/2025 by admin

**Next Article Analysis: Can Australia defend their Women’s World Cup title?**
*By Gaurav Tripathi | Sep 27, 2025 01:11 pm*

—

**What’s the story?**

The Australian women’s cricket team, led by veteran keeper-batter Alyssa Healy, is determined to defend its title at the upcoming ICC Women’s World Cup 2025, starting September 30. The squad also sees the return of spinner Sophie Molineux from injury, strengthening their already formidable bowling attack.

Out of the 15-member squad, 10 players were part of the team that secured Australia’s seventh World Cup title in New Zealand in 2022. Here, we analyze the strengths and potential challenges facing this Australian side.

—

**Team Composition**

Australia’s squad for the Women’s World Cup 2025 includes:
Alyssa Healy (c), Darcie Brown, Ash Gardner, Kim Garth, Heather Graham, Alana King, Phoebe Litchfield, Tahlia McGrath, Sophie Molineux, Beth Mooney, Ellyse Perry, Megan Schutt, Annabel Sutherland, Georgia Voll, and Georgia Wareham.

Coached by Shelley Nitschke, Australia currently holds the top spot in the ICC WODI rankings, reflecting their dominance in women’s cricket.

—

**Team Analysis**

**Batting: Australia’s Strength**

Batting remains one of Australia’s biggest assets. Veteran players such as Ellyse Perry, Beth Mooney, and Ashleigh Gardner have all averaged over 43 with the bat in WODIs this year. Their experience, combined with the promising talents of youngsters like Phoebe Litchfield and Georgia Voll, gives the team a solid and balanced batting lineup.

The “Women in Yellow” have been in excellent form, winning five of their six WODIs in 2025, including a recent 2-1 series victory over co-hosts India.

—

**All-rounders and Fielding**

Australia boasts incredible depth in all-rounders, enhancing their flexibility and balance. During the recent India series, Healy utilized eight different bowlers, showcasing the team’s versatile bowling attack.

Players like Perry, Gardner, and Tahlia McGrath stand out as world-class three-dimensional cricketers. The batting order is well-structured, with clear roles and responsibilities for each player.

Additionally, Australia’s fielding is a major strength, with stars like Megan Schutt and Perry regarded among the safest catchers in international cricket.

—

**Pressure Performance**

Australia’s proven ability to perform under pressure has been a cornerstone of their success. With seven WODI World Cup titles and six WT20 World Cups, the team knows how to thrive on big stages.

Having 10 players from their 2022 championship-winning squad provides valuable experience, especially for high-pressure matches in the upcoming tournament.

It’s noteworthy that this could be the last World Cup campaign for several senior players such as Healy, Mooney, Perry, and Schutt, adding extra motivation to finish on a high.

—

**Fitness Concerns and Conditions**

Fitness remains an area of concern. Spinner Sophie Molineux is returning from a long injury layoff, while Healy herself has recently made a comeback.

The hot and humid conditions expected in India and Sri Lanka will pose further challenges. Effective workload management will be crucial for the team’s success.

Healy’s current form as an opener also poses questions. Since January 2024, she has scored 490 runs in WODIs at an average of 32.66, which is a slight dip compared to her usual standards.

—

**Conclusion**

Australia enters the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 as clear favorites, boasting a strong and experienced squad with the perfect blend of seasoned veterans and exciting young talent.

While fitness and adapting to demanding conditions remain challenges, their depth, tactical flexibility, and championship pedigree make them a formidable contender to defend their crown.

With high expectations on their shoulders, the Women in Yellow will be keen to reaffirm their dominance on the world stage once again.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/icc-women-s-odi-world-cup-analysis-of-australia/story

Here’s why Arshdeep Singh bowled Super Over vs Sri Lanka

Posted on 27/09/2025 by admin

**Here’s Why Arshdeep Singh Bowled the Super Over vs Sri Lanka**
*By Gaurav Tripathi | Sep 27, 2025 | 10:13 AM*

India’s captain Suryakumar Yadav has revealed the reason behind his decision to entrust Arshdeep Singh with bowling the Super Over in their final Asia Cup Super Four match against Sri Lanka. The move proved crucial as Arshdeep delivered an exceptional performance, restricting Sri Lanka to just two runs and taking two important wickets. This victory ensured India’s unbeaten streak remained intact, helping them progress to the tournament final.

### Match Analysis: A High-Scoring Thriller

Although the match was essentially a dead rubber, fans were treated to a high-scoring thriller. Both teams surpassed the 200-run mark, showcasing strong batting performances. Sri Lanka’s Pathum Nissanka scored a brilliant century, but India’s middle order—particularly Sanju Samson and Tilak Varma—played vital innings to keep India in the hunt.

“It felt like a final and the boys showed a lot of character after the first half in the second innings,” Suryakumar Yadav remarked during the post-match presentation.

### Strategic Decision: Why Arshdeep?

Suryakumar explained his confidence in Arshdeep Singh by highlighting the bowler’s consistency over the years. “Arshdeep has delivered for us over the last 2-3 years. I told him to back his own plans and try to execute,” said Yadav.

He added, “He has been in that situation many times before and has performed really well for India as well as his IPL side.”

### Match Reflection from Sri Lanka

Sri Lankan captain Charith Asalanka praised Nissanka’s outstanding century and remained positive despite his team’s lackluster performance in the Super Four stage. “It was unbelievable batting from Nissanka. They have some extremely good bowlers, and it was splendid to see him bat with such an attacking approach,” Asalanka said.

He also acknowledged some positives despite the results: “We have been playing good cricket, but unfortunately, we could not win in the last two games.”

—

India’s tactical acumen and composure under pressure, epitomized by Arshdeep Singh’s Super Over heroics, were key factors in their continued dominance in the Asia Cup this year.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/asia-cup-suryakumar-reveals-why-he-chose-arshdeep-for-super-over/story

High-quality audio, faster playback: What’s new for YouTube Premium subscribers

Posted on 27/09/2025 by admin

**High-Quality Audio, Faster Playback: What’s New for YouTube Premium Subscribers**
*By Dwaipayan Roy | Sep 27, 2025, 11:36 AM*

YouTube has announced a range of exciting new features exclusively for its Premium subscribers. Initially teased earlier this year, these updates are now rolling out across Android, iOS, and web platforms, promising an enhanced viewing and listening experience.

One of the most notable additions is the ability to increase playback speeds up to 4x, adjustable in fine increments of 0.05x. Previously accessible only through youtube.com/new, this feature is now fully integrated directly into the YouTube app and website, making it easier than ever to speed through your favorite videos.

**Enhanced Audio Streaming**

YouTube Premium subscribers can now enjoy high-quality audio streaming at 256kbps right within the main app on Android and iOS. This upgrade applies to official and premium music videos as well as Art Tracks, mirroring the quality found on YouTube Music.

**New Features for Smart TVs and Gaming Consoles**

For users watching on smart TVs and gaming consoles, YouTube has introduced “Jump Ahead,” a handy feature that lets you skip directly to the most interesting or key moments in a video, ensuring you never miss out on the best parts.

**Updates to Shorts for iOS Users**

YouTube has also enhanced its Shorts experience for iOS users by adding Picture-in-Picture mode and Smart Downloads. Picture-in-Picture allows you to continue watching Shorts in a small floating window while you browse other content on your device. Meanwhile, Smart Downloads automatically saves your favorite Shorts based on your viewing history, letting you enjoy them offline without any hassle.

These updates collectively enhance the YouTube Premium experience, providing users with greater control, improved audio quality, and smarter video playback options across devices. Stay tuned as YouTube continues to refine and expand its offerings for premium subscribers.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/science/youtube-premium-subscribers-get-4x-playback-speed-boost/story

Analysis: Can Australia defend their Women’s World Cup title?

Posted on 27/09/2025 by admin

**Next Article Analysis: Can Australia Defend Their Women’s World Cup Title?**
*By Gaurav Tripathi | Sep 27, 2025, 01:11 pm*

—

**What’s the Story?**

The Australian women’s cricket team, led by veteran keeper-batter Alyssa Healy, is determined to defend its title at the upcoming ICC Women’s World Cup 2025, starting September 30. The squad also welcomes back spinner Sophie Molineux from injury, strengthening an already formidable bowling attack.

Out of the 15-member squad, 10 players were part of the team that won Australia’s seventh World Cup title in New Zealand in 2022. Here, we analyze the strengths and weaknesses of the squad ahead of the tournament.

—

**Team Composition**

Australia’s squad for the Women’s World Cup 2025 includes:
– Alyssa Healy (c)
– Darcie Brown
– Ash Gardner
– Kim Garth
– Heather Graham
– Alana King
– Phoebe Litchfield
– Tahlia McGrath
– Sophie Molineux
– Beth Mooney
– Ellyse Perry
– Megan Schutt
– Annabel Sutherland
– Georgia Voll
– Georgia Wareham

The team is coached by Shelley Nitschke and currently holds the top spot in the ICC WODI rankings.

—

**Team Analysis**

**Batting Strengths**
Batting remains one of Australia’s key strengths. Veteran players like Ellyse Perry, Beth Mooney, and Ashleigh Gardner are in excellent form, averaging over 43 in WODIs this year. The team has also successfully integrated young talents such as Phoebe Litchfield and Georgia Voll. The Women in Yellow have been dominant in 2025, winning five of their six WODIs, including a recent 2-1 series victory over co-hosts India.

**Depth of All-Rounders and Fielding**
Australia boasts a strong lineup of all-rounders, adding versatility and balance. In the recent India series, Alyssa Healy utilized eight different bowlers, highlighting the team’s bowling depth. Players like Perry, Gardner, and Tahlia McGrath are among the world’s best all-rounders.

Fielding is another standout aspect, with athletes such as Megan Schutt and Perry known for their safe hands and agility in the field.

**Pressure Performance**
Australia’s ability to perform under pressure is legendary. With seven WODI World Cup titles and six WT20 World Cups to their name, the team’s experience is unmatched. Having 10 players from the victorious 2022 squad provides a clear edge in high-stakes matches. Notably, this may be the last World Cup for several seasoned players like Healy, Mooney, Perry, and Megan Schutt, adding emotional motivation.

—

**Challenges and Concerns**

**Fitness Issues**
Fitness remains a concern, given Sophie Molineux’s return from a long injury layoff and Healy’s recent comeback. The hot and humid conditions expected in India and Sri Lanka will further challenge the team’s workload management.

**Healy’s Form**
Alyssa Healy’s form as an opener is another point of uncertainty. Since January 2024, she has scored 490 runs in WODIs at an average of 32.66, a dip from her usual explosive standards. How she adapts to the conditions and pressure will be crucial for Australia’s title defense.

—

**Conclusion**

Australia enters the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 as strong favorites, backed by a blend of experience, talent, and depth. While fitness concerns and form fluctuations exist, the squad’s proven ability to handle pressure and perform consistently makes them a formidable contender to defend their crown on home and neighboring soil. Cricket fans worldwide will be eager to watch how the Women in Yellow rise to the occasion once again.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/icc-women-s-odi-world-cup-analysis-of-australia/story

Odisha Civil Services Exam Results Declared; Priyansu Pal Secures First Rank

Posted on 27/09/2025 by admin

**Odisha Public Service Commission Declares Odisha Civil Services Examination 2023 Results**

The Odisha Public Service Commission (OPSC) announced the results of the Odisha Civil Services Examination 2023 on Friday. A total of 398 candidates have successfully cleared the examination, including 144 women.

The recruitment process was conducted in three phases: preliminary and main (written) examinations held during April–May 2025, followed by personality tests in September.

—

### Topper Profile: Priyansu Pal

Topping the merit list, Priyansu Pal, a resident of Angul district, secured the first rank. A mining engineering graduate from Government Engineering College, Keonjhar (2018), Priyansu had initially worked in a private firm before moving into a managerial role at a multinational company.

In January 2025, he resigned from his well-paying job to focus entirely on preparing for the Odisha Administrative Service (OAS) exam. His dedication and hard work paid off, earning him the top spot in this year’s examination.

—

### Other Top Performers

The second rank was claimed by Ananya Mishra, the only woman among the top 10 merit-holders, while Sovan Pattanaik secured the third position.

OPSC has clarified that the selection of candidates is provisional and contingent upon verification of original certificates by the appointing authorities.

—

### Official Notification and Congratulatory Messages

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi extended his congratulations to the successful candidates via a post on X, stating:

> “My heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to all who have succeeded in the Odisha Administrative Service Examination. Administrative service is a matter of pride and it plays an important role in the development trajectory of the state.
> I hope that you will work transparently, impartially, and with a people-oriented approach from the grassroots level for the development of the state.
> May your future career be bright, and I wish you progress in your professional life.”

—

This year’s results reflect an impressive performance by candidates across Odisha, highlighting the growing talent and commitment of young professionals like Priyansu Pal and Ananya Mishra. These promising individuals are set to contribute significantly to state governance and development at the grassroots level.

—

*For official details and notifications regarding the Odisha Civil Services Exam results, please visit the [OPSC website](#).*
https://www.freepressjournal.in/education/odisha-civil-services-exam-results-declared-priyansu-pal-secures-first-rank

Kerala: One Dead, Three Seriously Injured After Car Rams Into Tree Near Koorad Village In Malappuram District

Posted on 27/09/2025 by admin

Malappuram: One person died and three others were seriously injured in a car accident near Koorad village in the Wandoor region of Kerala’s Malappuram district, officials said on Saturday.

According to hospital officials, the accident occurred when a car lost control and rammed into a tree. The family was returning from Mysuru after completing admission formalities for their child when the mishap took place, just about one kilometre from their home.

The deceased has been identified as Mymoona of Karimpana House, Koorad. The injured are Kunju Muhammad and Tahira of Karimpana House, Koorad, and Isahak of Thekkethil Cherukulattil House, Valluvangad, Pandikkad.

All three injured individuals have sustained serious injuries and are currently undergoing treatment at the hospital. Further details are awaited.

*Note: Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by FPJ’s editorial team and is auto-generated from an agency feed.*
https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/kerala-one-dead-three-seriously-injured-after-car-rams-into-tree-near-koorad-village-in-malappuram-district

Maharashtra Govt Announces ₹2,000 Diwali Gift For Anganwadi Workers & Helpers

Posted on 27/09/2025 by admin

Mumbai: The Maharashtra government has announced a special Diwali gift for anganwadi workers and helpers serving under the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) scheme. Each worker and helper will receive Rs 2,000 as a token of appreciation, Women and Child Development Minister Aditi Tatkare said.

The government has sanctioned Rs 40.61 crore for this initiative, with a formal government resolution issued on Thursday.

Minister Tatkare emphasized the vital role anganwadi workers and helpers play in the care, nutrition, and overall development of women and children. She stated, “Anganwadi workers and helpers play a crucial role in the care, nutrition, and overall development of women and children. To acknowledge their dedicated service and add joy to the festive season, the state government has sanctioned this Bhau Beej gift. Every anganwadi worker and helper is a true strength of our society, and we endeavour to make their festival more joyful.”

The amount will soon be disbursed to the beneficiaries through the ICDS commissioner’s office. This decision is expected to bring festive cheer to thousands of anganwadi workers and helpers across Maharashtra, making their Diwali celebrations brighter, the minister added.

(Note: Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by FPJ’s editorial team and is auto-generated from an agency feed.)
https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/maharashtra-govt-announces-2000-diwali-gift-for-anganwadi-workers-helpers

EES launch : The truth about ‘medical insurance’ checks under new EU border rules

Posted on 27/09/2025 by admin

**EU’s Long-Awaited Entry/Exit System (EES) Launches October 12: What British Eurostar Travellers Need to Know**

The European Union’s long-anticipated Entry/Exit System (EES) is finally set to launch on October 12, bringing new border control measures that will affect British travellers heading into Europe via Eurostar. However, even before going live, the new system is already causing some confusion and concern.

### What’s Happening with the EES?

The EES is designed to modernise border checks for non-EU nationals, which now includes British passport holders post-Brexit. Here’s what to expect when you arrive at London St Pancras International to board the Eurostar to Paris, Brussels, or Amsterdam:

– You will go through new electronic kiosks.
– Your passport will be scanned.
– Biometric data such as fingerprints and a facial scan will be taken.
– The system will record when and where you enter the Schengen zone.

Additionally, you will be asked a few simple questions, including whether you have:

– A booked place to stay.
– A return ticket.
– Enough money to cover your trip.
– Insurance coverage.

If you answer “no” to any of these questions, the system will flag you for a manual check by French border police. They have the authority to refuse entry if you do not meet the requirements.

### Who Will Be Affected Initially?

According to Euronews, from October 12, only business and premium class passengers on Eurostar will face these checks. A wider rollout for all travellers is expected in January 2026.

### Medical Insurance or Travel Insurance: Clearing Up the Confusion

Early reports suggested that passengers would need to show **medical insurance** to enter France, causing unnecessary panic among travellers. Eurostar quickly clarified that this was a translation error. What you actually need is **general travel insurance**, not a medical-only policy.

A Eurostar spokesperson explained that the English version of the kiosk questions is still provisional and awaiting final confirmation from France’s Ministry of the Interior, so wording may not be perfect on day one.

The UK government added some uncertainty by confirming that travellers might be asked about medical insurance at kiosks but emphasised that medical insurance is **not a legal requirement** to enter the EU. Instead, they strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance covering medical expenses, repatriation, and trip cancellation before travelling.

### French Rules Add to the Complexity

Here’s the twist: While the EU does not require proof of medical insurance, France does impose this requirement on third-country nationals. Official French guidance recommends visitors have insurance covering medical, hospital expenses, repatriation, and even costs in case of death abroad.

In practice, checks on insurance have rarely been enforced at the border, but the EES could change that. With new electronic flagging systems, French border police may be more inclined to check insurance and return ticket compliance.

On the topic of return tickets, the Schengen rules require proof of departure from the zone (which could be any flight, not necessarily back to the UK), but France specifically insists on a booked return ticket.

### What This Means for Eurostar Travellers

If you’re planning to travel via Eurostar this autumn or later, here’s what you should keep in mind:

– Expect additional questions at the kiosks in St Pancras regarding your accommodation, finances, return ticket, and insurance.
– Travel insurance is the requirement—not strictly medical insurance—but it’s wise to have a policy covering both.
– You are unlikely to have to show proof, but having it handy could save your trip if asked.
– The full system won’t apply to standard class passengers until January 2026.

While headlines about compulsory medical insurance may have been overblown, the safest bet remains to travel with proper insurance. This not only protects you during unexpected emergencies abroad but also provides peace of mind when border officers decide to double-check your documents.

### A New Travel Reality for British Travellers

The launch of the EES is a clear reminder that post-Brexit travel between the UK and EU is now more complex. Gone are the days of a quick passport check before boarding the Eurostar. Instead, expect longer waits, biometric scans, and detailed questions about your travel plans.

The medical insurance confusion due to translation errors highlights the inevitable teething problems as the system rolls out.

So whether you’re heading to Paris for a weekend getaway, Brussels for business, or Amsterdam for a city break, don’t let new procedures catch you out. Pack your patience, keep your paperwork organised, and most importantly, buy travel insurance. Because while you might never have to show it, the day you do could be the day it saves you a fortune.
https://euroweeklynews.com/2025/09/27/ees-launch-the-truth-about-medical-insurance-checks-under-new-eu-border-rules/

Savvy saver: seven cracking ways to start or build up your savings

Posted on 27/09/2025 by admin

Having £2,000 in savings means you are 60% less likely to fall behind on household bills and have a much lower risk of problem debt than someone with little or no money put aside. That is the headline finding from an academic study highlighting £2,000 as a key turning point in the protective power of savings.

However, if reaching £2,000 feels unattainable, the good news is that even small sums make a difference. Savings as little as £200 can help reduce the risk of falling into financial difficulties, according to researchers from the University of Bristol’s Personal Finance Research Centre.

We all know how important it is to save, and putting some numbers out there may help give people a target to aim for. This research was commissioned by the Building Societies Association to mark UK Savings Week. Running until Sunday, the week is dedicated to encouraging people to build better savings habits, whatever their starting point.

Here are some of the more painless ways to start or build up your savings pot:

### Get Your Money Working Harder

There are thought to be hundreds of billions of pounds sitting in current accounts earning little or no interest. While you need enough money in your bank account to cover bills and outgoings, any leftover funds could be moved into a savings account to earn interest.

To prevent money from piling up in your current account again, consider setting up a monthly standing order to transfer funds into your savings account just after payday. Alternatively, you can sweep any remaining balance from your current account into savings at the end of each month.

### Save Little and Often

You can save money almost without thinking about it by using roundup tools or apps. Many banks and financial providers—from high street names such as NatWest and Lloyds to newer players like Starling and Chase—offer roundup features that round up your spending to the nearest £1 and transfer the difference into a savings pot.

For example, if you spend £3.60, you will be debited £4, with 40p going into your savings. Some banks, like NatWest, even let you multiply your roundups, sending two or five times the spare change to your savings account.

Apps like Monzo offer a “1p Saving Challenge,” where 1p is moved from your personal account to your savings pot on day one, 2p on day two, 3p on day three, and so on. If you keep it up for 365 days, you will have saved £667.95, earning interest (currently 3.5%) along the way.

### Get Into the Habit with Regular Savings Accounts

Regular savings accounts often offer some of the best interest rates. These accounts generally encourage you to put aside money each month for a limited period. While you may not have to save every month, these accounts tend to work best when you do.

For instance, putting away £50 every month into an account paying 6% interest would take about three years and one month to surpass the £2,000 mark, assuming interest is calculated daily and the rate remains unchanged. Note that many accounts’ headline rates last only one year, so you may need to open new accounts once the term expires.

Often, you need to hold a current account with the same bank to qualify. The Nationwide Flex Regular Saver offers 6.5% interest but requires an existing current account. However, some accounts do not require such relationships. For example, Yorkshire Building Society’s 50 Pound Regular Saver pays 6% interest and is open to all UK residents over 16. You can deposit up to £50 monthly over 12 months; by the end, you would have £619.50 including interest. This account can be opened in branches, agencies, or online (as the 50 Pound Regular eSaver).

### Stash a Little, (Maybe) Win Big

The chance of winning a prize can make saving more exciting. NS&I Premium Bonds are the best-known option: when you buy these, you’re entered into a monthly prize draw with tax-free prizes ranging from £25 up to £1 million. The minimum investment is £25.

The downside is Premium Bonds pay no interest, making them more vulnerable to inflation than other savings options. The prize fund rate—the percentage of the total invested paid out to winners—is currently 3.6%. While you could strike it lucky, there is no guarantee you will win anything.

Coventry Building Society has recently launched the Sunny Day Saver, an easy-access account paying 4.3% interest and offering 11 monthly prize draws (the first on 17 October). You can open the account with as little as £1, and there is no requirement to save every month. However, for each month you save at least £10, you qualify for a prize draw with ten prizes of up to £500. Those who save every month for 11 months will also qualify for an additional draw next summer with a top prize of £5,000.

The savings and investment app Chip offers a Prize Savings Account where, instead of interest, you have a chance to win cash prizes every month. The current monthly prize pot is £75,000, including a grand prize of £10,000. Every £10 saved earns one entry into the draw, but you need an average minimum balance of £100 to qualify.

### Benefit from Help to Save

Help to Save is a government-backed savings account designed for working people on low incomes who receive Universal Credit. It offers a 50p bonus for every £1 you save over four years.

You can save between £1 and £50 each month—you don’t have to save every month—and receive bonuses at the end of the second and fourth years based on your savings. The maximum you can save is £2,400 over four years, with a possible bonus of up to £1,200.

### Use ISAs for Tax-Free Growth

Individual Savings Accounts (ISAs) allow you to save money tax-free. The government sets an annual maximum you can save in ISAs, currently £20,000 per tax year.

Cash ISAs are among the main options, offered by banks, building societies, and other providers. You do not pay tax on the interest earned in these accounts.

Another option is the Lifetime ISA, which helps people save towards their first home or retirement. Its biggest draw is the government bonus: up to £32,000 in theory. You must be aged 18 to 39 to open one and can pay in up to £4,000 each year until you turn 50. The government adds a 25% bonus to your savings, up to £1,000 per year.

### Check for Forgotten Savings

You might already have savings you’ve forgotten about. Several online tracing services can help reunite you with lost accounts.

A free service called My Lost Account consolidates tracing schemes from UK Finance, the Building Societies Association, and NS&I into a single website. This means you only need to fill in one application form to search for forgotten savings accounts linked to your name.

—

Building your savings pot can make a real difference to your financial stability. Even starting small and using some of these easy strategies can help you work towards that crucial £2,000 milestone—and beyond.
https://www.theguardian.com/money/2025/sep/27/seven-ways-to-start-or-build-up-your-savings

Eight interior designer-approved easy updates to give your home an autumnal update – including the top designer dupes

Posted on 27/09/2025 by admin

1. Go Brown (Yes, Really!)

Chocolate, caramel, and espresso shades are popping up on everything from rugs to tiles and walls. As striking (and practical for homes with kids or pets) as a brown sofa can be, it’s best to start small with a vase or cushion and build from there. Sostrene Grene has a wide range of brown textiles and furnishings to help you test out the trend.

Another option is to refresh walls or furniture with a coat of brown paint. This will pair beautifully with other autumnal tones such as rust, ochre, and forest green, while also grounding softer neutrals like cream and blush. Painting an internal door, skirting boards, a bookshelf, or even a wall will quickly dial up the cosiness factor.

Try the ganache-inspired Affogato from Little Greene or the soft cinnamon-brown Hidden Valley from Benjamin Moore Paint.

2. Warm Up with Bulbs and Lamps

Lighting is one of the easiest ways to get your home autumn-ready, and the best part is, you don’t need to buy new fittings or call an electrician to enjoy the glow. Simply swap your existing bulbs or LEDs for amber-toned versions to create a warm atmosphere. B&Q sells a good selection.

Replacing lampshades with ones in warm materials such as brass or wicker is another easy win. Try Next for stylish and affordable options.

3. Try a Designer Dupe

This season, it’s easier than ever to channel designer style without the hefty price tag. Some of our favourite high-street finds include:

Lakeland’s colourful 8-in-1 Only Pan (£60), a dead-ringer for the iconic Our Place Always Pan (£125).
The Otto duvet cover set by Made.com (£50 for a king size), strikingly similar to the Kemptown Stripe from Piglet in Bed (£199).
Georges navy Bobbin lamp (£15) from Asda Direct, a budget-friendly option that channels the look of Pooky’s £72 design.

4. Block Out the Draught Stylishly

Insulating and draught-proofing your external doors is crucial as the weather gets cooler. But that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style. This season, many high-street stores are offering plush and patterned draught excluders.

Among our favourites are the Ollin (£25) from Perch & Sparrow, and Dunelm’s Linford Stripe (£16) from Dunelm.

5. Bring Nature Indoors

A touch of the outdoors can make a big difference to the look and feel of your home, and it doesn’t have to cost a lot. Instead of splurging on fresh flowers, fill vases with branches for a sculptural centrepiece, or use dark foliage such as eucalyptus parvifolia and Cercis canadensis ‘Forest Pansy’ to create an instant focal point.

You can find these at most local florists, while retailers such as Layered Lounge offer a convincing faux selection — cheaper, and no one will notice.

6. Get Cosy with Textiles

Swapping lightweight linens and cottons for velvet, wool, and chunky knits is an easy way to prep your home for autumn. A throw draped over the arm of a sofa, cushions, or a bedspread in earthy tones can instantly transform a space at low cost.

H&M and Zara Home have a wide selection. Instead of buying new cushions, consider investing in covers — they are easy to store away when spring rolls back around.

7. Spice Up Your Room Scents

Change breezy summer florals for warm notes such as cinnamon, clove, and sandalwood. Room diffusers and sprays often last longer than candles and are just as decorative.

Rituals has recently launched a limited-edition reed diffuser, Intuitia (£37.90), with notes of saffron and vanilla that linger for up to three months.

For a DIY approach, try making your own seasonal scent. Simply simmer sliced oranges and cinnamon sticks in plenty of water on the hob to give your kitchen an instant aromatic boost that can last for hours.

8. Dress the Dining Table

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