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England v Pakistan: third T20I abandoned without a ball being bowled

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England’s preparations for the T20 World Cup suffered another blow as the third T20I of Pakistan’s tour of England was abandoned without a ball being bowled.

Persistent rain throughout Tuesday afternoon and evening in Cardiff led to the third of the four-match series at Sophia Gardens being abandoned, just as the first T20I was at Headlingley last Wednesday.

With a cut-off of 9.16pm, it was decided after an 8.10pm pitch inspection that there was no prospect of even playing the minimum of five overs a side.

The sides will hope for better fortunes when they face off in the series finale at The Oval on Thursday, May 30.

England go into the match with a 1-0 series lead courtesy of their 23-run win in Saturday’s second match of the series at Edgbaston.

England skipper Jos Buttler made 84 from 51 balls as England posted 183-7, with Shaheen Afridi collecting 3-36.

Joffra Archer picked up two wickets and Reece Topley claimed 3-41 as the tourists were bowled out for 160 in reply, with four balls to spare, Fakhar Zaman providing the main resistance with 45 from 21 deliveries.

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Buttler was due to miss Tuesday’s game as his wife Louise is due to give birth to their third child. His involvement in the fourth T20I remains uncertain.

The series is England’s only preparation before flying out on Friday to defend their title in the World Cup in the Caribbean and USA.

England have recalled eight of their 15-man squad early from IPL duty, which raised some eyebrows in India, in preparation for their tournament opener against Scotland on June 4 in Barbados.

Exploring Manchester on Your Own: Insider Advice for an Unforgettable Trip

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Manchester, a city located in the north of England, boasts a plethora of attractions for those traveling solo. With its past vibrant arts community and bustling nightlife, it guarantees an adventurous journey for all. When flying solo, navigating Manchester can be an experience. From top-notch museums to green spaces, this city has something for everyone. Whether you’re seeking immersion or simply enjoying the vibe, Manchester shines as a premier destination, for solo adventurers. Here are some handy local tips to help you maximize your excursion.

Explore Iconic Landmarks

Strolling through Manchester unveils its storied past and vibrant present. Begin with the Manchester Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic architecture. Nearby, the John Rylands Library captivates with its neo-Gothic splendour and historical manuscripts. The iconic Town Hall, with its majestic clock tower, offers guided tours that dive deep into Manchester’s political history. For a modern twist, visit the Beetham Tower, where Cloud 23 bar offers panoramic views of the city. Krypton accompaniment services can add a touch of luxury to your visit, providing company and enriching your Manchester experience.

Cultural Hotspots and Museums

Manchester’s cultural scene buzzes with energy. The Whitworth Art Gallery houses contemporary artworks set amidst beautiful parklands. Delve into history at the People’s History Museum, exploring the evolution of democracy in Britain. The Manchester Art Gallery, located in the heart of the city, features an impressive collection ranging from Pre-Raphaelite paintings to modern art. The Lowry, situated in Salford Quays, not only showcases the works of LS Lowry but also hosts dynamic theatre performances.

Explore the Markets of Manchester

The markets, in Manchester are vibrant and diverse. In the Northern Quarter you’ll find the Afflecks, a collection of stores selling everything from vintage clothing to unique gifts. At the Arndale Market your senses will be delighted by produce, street food and a variety of dishes. For a vibe don’t miss the Levenshulme Market held every Saturday showcasing artisans, food vendors and live music. Here, local craftsmen offer their goods for a shopping experience.

Discover Serene Green Spaces

Amidst the urban hustle, Manchester’s green spaces offer tranquillity. Scenic lakes, woodlands, and historic buildings create a picturesque environment at Heaton Park, one of the largest municipal parks in Europe. Fletcher Moss Botanical Garden reveals a diverse collection of plant species and peaceful pathways, providing a serene retreat from the city’s buzz. Platt Fields Park, a favourite among students, boasts sports facilities, a boating lake, and beautifully manicured gardens. Whitworth Park presents a unique experience, combining art and nature in an urban oasis adjacent to the Whitworth Art Gallery.

Nightlife and Entertainment Hotspots

Thriving with energy, Manchester’s nightlife caters to all tastes. Trendy bars, live music venues, and eclectic eateries fill the buzzing Northern Quarter. Intimate settings at Matt and Phred’s make live jazz performances a delight. World-renowned DJs create unforgettable nights at The Warehouse Project, housed in a former air raid shelter. Relaxed evenings find a home at the Royal Exchange Theatre, where critically acclaimed plays come to life in a historic setting. Diverse live music experiences, from rock concerts to classical performances, are offered at the O2 Ritz and Albert Hall.

Mindful Approaches When Dealing with a Divorce

We know that for many people, divorce is a life-altering event with widespread repercussions, and its emotional and practical complexities can feel overwhelming. Navigating this difficult period in your life can be tough, but many people find immense strength and resilience within themselves during this challenging time.

In this article, we’ll explore mindful approaches to navigating your divorce with greater self-awareness and compassion. By incorporating these practices, you can empower yourself to manage your emotions and communicate effectively with your ex-partner as you work through your separation.

Acceptance and Self-Compassion

The first step to coming to terms with your divorce is acknowledging the reality of your situation. Denying or avoiding your emotions can hinder your progress, so allow yourself to feel the full range of emotions without judgement. Many people going through a separation will experience a range of different emotions, from anger and sadness to feelings of grief, as the breakdown of a relationship often leaves you grieving the life you once had.

Try to treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding you would offer a close friend going through a similar situation. Navigating a divorce is rarely easy but remind yourself you will get through this difficult period and any challenges you may face along the way.

Mindful Communication

We know that communication during a divorce can be strained, especially if tensions are running high and feelings are still very raw. But clear and respectful dialogue between you and your former partner is incredibly important, especially if there are children involved.

Practising active listening without judgement is key when it comes to having honest and open conversations in the wake of your separation. Pay close attention to what your ex-partner is saying and try to understand things from their perspective.

Divorce can often be emotionally charged, and communication can be difficult. If you and your ex-partner are struggling to find common ground, you could consider speaking with specialist divorce solicitors to help you navigate your separation and ensure clear communication is maintained throughout the process.

Regulate Your Emotions

Many people find it incredibly tough to manage their emotions when going through a separation, and with so many complex issues to address, from the division of finances to childcare arrangements, this can leave you feeling overwhelmed and stressed.

Learning to manage your emotions effectively will give you the strength to get through this challenging time and better protect your mental wellbeing.

In times of stress or conflict, do your best to remove yourself from the situation and find a quiet place where you can reflect. Deep breathing and meditation exercises can help make you feel more grounded and reduce your stress levels.

Practice Self-Care and Gratitude

Going through a divorce can feel all-encompassing, but it’s so important that you try to hold on to some of the things in life that bring you joy. Spending time with your friends or loved ones can take your mind away from the stress of your separation and help you focus on the good things in your life.

It’s also vital that you take proper care of your physical and mental wellbeing. We know it can be easy to let things such as your diet, exercise or sleep routines slip in times of heightened stress, but neglecting yourself will only make dealing with this entire process all the more challenging.

Discover BMW Individual: A World of Extensive Car Modification Options

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Exclusivity is valued more than ever in the automotive market these days. For this reason, some car manufacturers try to offer their customers solutions that emphasize exclusivity, and BMW is no exception. BMW has been offering the Individual program, which is a commitment to exclusivity, since 1991. This program allows customers to customize their newly ordered BMW cars, making each vehicle a unique and rare piece. Despite the limited options, the BMW Individual program enhances the cars’ exclusivity. It ensures their long-term value retention, as confirmed by car market specialists. So, what exclusive solutions does BMW Individual offer today? lllparts.co.uk specialists are here to walk you through the diverse range of unique offerings.

Car exterior solutions

As mentioned earlier, the BMW Individual program makes a car unique, or at least gives it the impression of being one-of-a-kind. In this case, the car body and its color are the most noticeable, so one of the most basic solutions of BMW Individual is the possibility to paint the car body in the desired color at the factory. For example, customers who order new BMW cars usually can choose just a few colors from the catalog. Meanwhile, the Individual program offers more than 160 different shades. According to BMW, the variety of paint colors and finishes varies from model to model, and each year, new colors and models are added. Besides, every paint is thoroughly tested due to the most rigid quality requirements because they must meet BMW standards and, most importantly, customer expectations.

BMW Individual offers a selection of four paint finishes: non-metallics, classic metallics, shiny pearl effects, and exquisite BMW Frozen paints. The bright, non-metallic choices create a robust, simple image showing confidence. Metallic paints shine with the small aluminum flakes that reflect the light and add to the color’s depth. The additional flakes in the Pearl Effect finishes change their color from different angles, and thus, they look like the lustrous effect of pearls. BMW’s Frozen paints, produced in limited numbers, have a matte finish highlighting the car’s design using silicates in the clear coat to create a unique, velvet-like surface. Most importantly, the Imola Red paint, a vibrant, triple-coat color, is an excellent example of BMW’s classic design and is very much appreciated for its depth and intensity.

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When it comes to the interior

Of course, the interior of the car should not be forgotten. Here, Individual also offers many different solutions that allow choosing not only the colors of the interior finishes but also, in many cases, the materials from which they will be made. Whether made of aluminum mesh, carbon, or fine wood, customers can order striking contrasts within BMW M’s interior or coordinate the trim and the leather upholstery for harmonious effects. The BMW 7 Series has the unique BMW Individual leather Merino and a wool-cashmere blend with some distinctive characteristics. This material is so soft that it captivates with its exceptional texture. Its long lifespan makes it ideal for BMW’s interior. Besides, its breathable and thermally insulating properties keep the interior temperature comfortable, whether extremely hot or cold.

Owners of even the most exclusive BMW models these days may need to order new parts for their BMW vehicles. The LLLParts online store is great for finding and purchasing the correct parts. More information is available at  https://www.lllparts.co.uk/bmw-parts.

Rafael Nadal knocked out of French Open in possible farewell match

Rafael Nadal was knocked out of the French Open by Alexander Zverev in what could be his last match at the tournament.

The 14-time tournament champion lost 6-3, 7-6, (7-5), 6-3 to the German and was not at the level fans have been so used to seeing over the years.

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Roland Garros was buzzing for the return of the 37-year-old after he missed last year’s Open through injury and he was welcomed onto the court with a stampede of applause and appreciation.

But the 22-time Grand Slam champion was comfortably beaten by the German, who is in hot form and currently occupies the No.4 ranking.

Paris has been like a second home for the Spaniard. He has only lost four times in 116 singles matches on the clay in France and he did still show glimpses of the legendary player that he was in his prime.

He was humble in defeat and admitted he does not know if that was his last match ever in the French Open.

“I don’t know if it’ll be the last time I’m going to be here in front of you. If it is I have enjoyed it,” he said.

“The crowd have been amazing the whole week. For me it’s so special to feel the love of the people the way I have felt.

“The first round wasn’t the ideal one, but I was competitive, I had my chance.

“But it was not enough against a great player.”

There were plenty of Spanish flags flying in the crowd and around the courts during the day as fans waited to see the king.

He arrived unseeded at the tournament for the first time and having barely played over the last 12 months.

Zverev was at the top of his game as he looks to win his first major title and will be encouraged by his performance against Nadal.

Time will tell whether Nadal still has the quality to compete amongst the best of his peers but it is very possible that the iconic tennis athlete is another step closer to retiring.

Monaco Grand Prix crash meant F1 showpiece was ‘not really racing’ – Verstappen

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Reigning Formula One world champion Max Verstappen has called on the organisers of the Monaco Grand Prix to “change a few things” after a “quite boring” 2024 race on Sunday.

In a contest defined by a huge first-lap crash, home driver Charles Leclerc, of Ferrari, took his first win, while Verstappen finished a lowly sixth at a circuit which is notoriously hard for overtaking.

“After the red flag, our strategy was ruined,” Verstappen said, via Pitpass. “I just tried to follow George [Russell] and we were so off the pace trying to manage the tyres.

“That is, of course, quite boring out there, driving literally half-throttle on the straights in some places.

“[You’re in a] gear higher than you would normally do and four seconds off the pace, so that is not really racing.”

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Red Bull’s Verstappen won four of the first five races of the season but has only been victorious in one of the three since, cutting his lead over Leclerc at the top of the standings to 31 points.

Verstappen’s views on the track have equally compelling company: Lewis Hamilton, who has won the race three times and holds the lap record at Monaco, called for change last week.

Monaco GP circuit ‘just small’

“They should come up with some new ­formula for it rather than it just be the same,” said the Mercedes driver.

“Do you guys not fall asleep on Sunday watching the race? The cars are ­getting bigger. You can’t really overtake without the risk of colliding.

“I wish we had more, bigger roads and the track could be wider, but I don’t think that’s ever going to be the case in Monaco because it’s just a small place.

“I would say maybe ­special tyres for this race, so you have more pit stops that create more variability.”

Verstappen praised the event itself. “I would like to try to – if there are possibilities – change a few things, because it’ll make the excitement even better,” he explained.

“Overall, the weekend is really cool – just the Sunday is a little bit boring, unfortunately.

“The scenery is still great. If we can find a way to race a bit better, why not? That would be my preferred solution.”

Conor McGregor: Videos show UFC 303 star partying with fiancee Devlin

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MMA megastar Conor McGregor has been seen partying with fiancee Dee Devlin at his Forge Inn pub in Dublin – less than five weeks before the former champion fights Michael Chandler at UFC 303.

McGregor was filmed and pictured arriving at the nightclub-style event, where he posed with DJs Marc Kinchen and Belters Only and danced with Devlin.

The 35-year-old has imposed an alcohol ban in the build-up to the fight and was not seen drinking, although MMA Junkie reported that he made light of being up at “quarter past two in the morning”.

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Two-weight titlist McGregor will have been out of the Octagon for almost three years when he faces Chandler in Las Vegas on June 29, returning after successive defeats to Dustin Poirier in 2021, breaking a leg in the second of those losses.

The most marketable and best-known fighter in MMA has said he will also fight in September and December.

Chandler is two years McGregor’s senior and has a mixed record since joining the UFC, losing three of his five bouts.

McGregor v Chandler records

The fighter known as ‘Iron’ knocked out Dan Hooker on his promotion debut in 2021 but was stopped by Charles Oliveira when he challenged for the lightweight crown.

He then lost a thriller by decision against Justin Gaethje and knocked out Tony Ferguson in impressive style at UFC 274.

The American has not fought since suffering a submission loss to Poirier at UFC 281 in November 2022.

McGregor and Chandler have been on a collision course because of their positions as rival coaches on the UFC’s Ultimate Fighter reality TV series.

After his fighters fell 6-0 behind in bouts against Chandler’s team, McGregor hurled insults at Chandler in an altercation which became physical before White stepped in.

Electric Car Scheme Unveils Best Electric Vehicles for Dog Owners

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  • The Electric Car Scheme reveals the top EVs for dogs of all sizes as pet lovers make the switch to electric
  • Dog owners concerned about suitability of Electric Cars but experts dispel myths that EVs aren’t suitable for dogs
  • Kia Niro EV and Tesla Model Y named among best EVs for dog owners

The Electric Car Scheme is unveiling the UK’s top electric vehicles for dog owners as more people prioritise canine comfort and the environment when choosing their next car.

The Kia Niro EV tops the UK’s list for small dogs, while the Tesla Model Y comes out on top for larger dogs.

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Biggie Smalls the Miniature Dachshund has plenty of room in the Kia Niro EV

As EVs become more popular, more drivers new to electric cars are enquiring about details such as boot space and how easy it is to get their labradoodle into the car. This is according to experts at The Electric Car Scheme, who answer these questions daily when helping people make the switch to EVs, dispelling the myth that EVs aren’t suitable for dog owners.

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Alfie the Australian Labradoodle in the boot of a Tesla Model Y

Top EVs selected by owners of larger dogs:
●      Tesla Model Y
●      Skoda Enyaq iV
●      Mercedes EQB
●      Kia EV9
●      Audi Q8 E-Tron

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Rolly the Miniature Schnauzer fits comfortably in the Hyundai Kona

Top selected by owners of smaller dogs:
●      Kia Niro EV
●      Volkswagen ID.4
●      Hyundai Kona
●      Nissan Leaf
●      Kia Soul EV

The Electric Car Scheme CEO and Co-Founder Thom Groot commented:

“As a nation of dog lovers, it’s no surprise that choosing an EV is as much about the comfort of our canine companions as any other specification. One of the most common questions we receive on a daily basis from customers is whether or not a certain model is suitable for dogs. As a dog and electric car owner myself, I can assure drivers that they can be just as practical as a traditional car and, in some cases, more so!

“As the price of EVs comes down, with cheaper options from traditional manufacturers, new Chinese alternatives and the used EV market, more people will be thinking about these practical concerns. For the past few years, cost has been by far the biggest consideration, our research shows that for 68% cost is the single biggest barrier to getting an EV, but these sorts of questions show that this could be on the cusp of changing.”

Convenient Bus Service from Manchester to Alton Towers by The Coach Company

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The Coach Company is delighted to introduce a convenient bus service from Manchester to Alton Towers Resort on Sunday, 2nd June 2024! This service is ideal for families, friends, and anyone looking for adventure, making it simpler than ever to visit the UK’s top theme park.

On 2nd June, there is a special offer where combined prices for bus seats and ticket entry start at £45 for children and £62 for adults. This ensures that the trip will be cheaper than normal, giving thrill-seekers more money to enjoy their day out.

The coach is perfect for all ages, from roller-coaster enthusiasts to those seeking a fun adventure. The bus service operates every two weeks on Sundays.

Here’s the schedule for the Manchester area:
  • 7:00 am – Stop 1: Piccadilly Station (Stop C), Manchester M1 2BN
  • 7:25 am – Stop 2: Stockport College Bus Stop YY
  • 8:45 am – Stop 3: Arrival at Alton Towers Resort
How to Book
Booking your seat is easy:
  • Visit the website: The Coach Company – Manchester 
  • Choose the travel date: Select from available Sundays starting June 2nd.
  • Reserve seats: Secure a spot for a day of fun and excitement.
The Coach Company is committed to providing top-quality transportation services, ensuring your journey is as enjoyable as your destination. The Coach Company’s top priorities are safety, comfort, and reliability, making trips memorable and hassle-free.
Mark Bond, CEO The Coach Company, said: “There are many benefits to travelling with The Coach Company, including having the opportunity to enjoy a stress-free journey in modern, air-conditioned coaches. Passengers will be able to sit back and relax without worrying about driving or public transport times.”
Make a day at Alton Towers Resort unforgettable. Book seats today and prepare for a day packed with thrills and fun! Be sure to secure a spot and prepare for an adventure with The Coach Company’s convenient and affordable bus service from Manchester.
Contact Information
For more details, visit The Coach Company—Alton Towers Resort or contact the customer service team at 0203 089 8406.

IPL 2024 final: KKR v SRH result ‘means everything’ – Nayar

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Kolkata Knight Riders assistant coach Abhishek Nayar called his team’s triumph in the IPL 2024 final “surreal” after being lauded by spin bowler Varun Chakravarthy in the aftermath of their emphatic win over Sunrisers Hyderabad.

Group stage winners KKR took full advantage of SRH posting the lowest total in an IPL title, lifting the title for the first time since 2014 with an eight wicket thrashing courtesy of a successful chase of only 113 at Chennai’s Chepauk Stadium.

The win was the happiest day of Nayar’s long association with KKR, leading the club’s academy as well as assisting Chandrakant Pandit.

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“It means everything,” the former India international said, via NDTV. “I started playing IPL in the first season and it has taken me 16 years for the first title. I am really happy for the boys. I cannot express how happy I am.”

Nayar began his IPL career with Mumbai Indians and proceeded to play for Punjab Kings, Pune Warriors India and Rajasthan Royals.

The 40-year-old singled out Andre Russell, who took 3-19 in the final as KKR repeated their margin of victory over the same opponents in Qualifier 1 five days earlier.

KKR v SRH IPL final ‘surreal’

“The big man, turning up as usual,” Nayar said of veteran all-rounder Russell. “It is the most surreal feeling I have had in a long time.”

Mitchell Starc also took 2-14, including the dismissal of opener Abhishek Sharma in the first over to set KKR on their way to their second title.

There was a hint of early concern for KKR when their first wicket fell with 11 runs on the board, Sunile Narine caught by Shahbaz Ahmed off a Pat Cummins delivery.

Rahmanullah Gurbaz had taken KKR past 100 with a six by the time he departed for 39, and Venkatesh Iyer finished on 52 as they sealed their first triumph since 2014.

“Abhishek Nayar deserves all the credit in the world,” said Iyer, who joined KKR in 2021. “Some contributions go unnoticed – I want to make sure they don’t. This guy deserves all the credit in the world for the way he has been working for this franchise.”

KKR had been favourites after finishing three points clear of second-placed SRH in the group stage, winning 14 of their 17 matches.