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India v England, 3rd T20I: Preview, line-ups, how to watch and prediction

The State of Play

England have dug themselves a hole and there is no room for error when they look to start a momentous comeback in their five-match T20I series against India in Rajkot tomorrow.

Jos Buttler’s men are 2-0 down despite a much-improved performance in Chennai on Saturday that saw them come close to levelling the series.

The T20 world champions held on to secure a two-wicket win, thanks largely to a brilliant 72 not out from Tilak Varma, who took a shine to the pace of Jofra Archer to help his side home.

England’s pace battery had a mixed evening. Archer was expensive – going for 60 from his four overs – but Brydon Carse backed up his 31 with the bat with three for 29 in an excellent all-round display.

The Durham man continues to gain prominence within the England set-up and he is confident the series is not yet lost.

Speaking after the defeat on Saturday, Carse said: “Hundred per cent, yeah [we can win the series]. Inside that changing room there, obviously the guys are a little bit down, but I think ultimately as a whole, I think it’s pretty evident that the performance tonight was a lot better than the other night. 

“But again, we haven’t put a full, complete performance in, so it’s exciting to see. Hopefully next game, we can put everything together.”

For England to flourish, however, they will need to find a way to combat India’s flexible middle-order that was led so impressively by Tilak at the weekend.

It was a coming-of-age performance from the 22-year-old, who displayed the same levels of confidence when speaking to the media afterwards that he did when flailing the England pacemen around the ground.

“If you see, I want to target [England’s] best bowlers,” Tilak said. ‘If you take on their best bowlers, other bowlers will be under pressure. So, [even] when the wickets are falling, I want to take on their best bowler. 

“It’s easier for the [batter] at the other end also. So I backed myself and I took chances against him [Archer]. And also whatever shots I have scored for Archer, I have worked in the nets. Mentally I was ready for that. So, it has given me a good result.”

Team News

England have already announced they will play the same XI that competed so well in Chennai.

That means Archer will get a shot at redemption and sees Jamie Overton get another chance despite the temptation to play a second specialist spinner alongside Adil Rashid.

Nitish Kumar Reddy and Rinku Singh have been ruled out with Shivam Dube and Ramandeep Singh coming into the squad.

Ramandeep is set to play in Rajkot with Dhruv Jurel potentially the man to make way.

Veteran paceman Mohammed Shami is likely to miss out again.

Expected line-ups

India: Samson (wk), Sharma, Varma, Yadav (c), Pandya, Patel, Sundar, R Singh, A Singh, Bishnoi, Chakravarthy

England (confirmed): Salt (wk), Duckett, Buttler (c), Brook, Livingstone, Smith, Overton, Carse, Archer, Rashid, Wood

How to Watch

In the UK, you can watch this series on TNT Sports and Discovery+. The third T20I is being screened on TNT Sports 1 from 1pm.

In India, it can be viewed on the Disney Plus Hotstar app and website.

Prediction

It would be a shame for the series if India were to clinch it in just three games, not that their fanatical supporters would agree.

England were much better in the second game and we think Buttler’s men will get it right here.

Much depends on whether the England attack can keep the ball in the park with Archer, in particular, needing a much-improved display.

But we’re going for England to halve the deficit with a victory in Rajkot.

Witnesses sought for Oldham assault on teenager

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Officers are appealing for information following an assault outside Spindles Shopping Centre in Oldham.

At around 12.15pm on Wednesday, January 15, it was reported that a 17-year-old boy was approached by an unknown man who attacked him, leading to visible injuries on his face and a concussion.

Through first enquiries, police believe that the suspect was wearing a black jacket with grey jeans, and was possibly with another man.

Officers investigating this incident have followed up with several lines of enquiry and are now asking for the public’s assistance.

Anyone who saw anything suspicious outside Spindles Shopping Centre at around 12.15pm, is encouraged to call 101 quoting log 1339 of 15/01/2025.

Alternatively, you can remain anonymous by contacting independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

New Cryptocurrency Features of Qardun Token Designed to Align with Amazon’s Innovative and User-Centric Approach

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Qardun Token, a leader in the cryptocurrency platform space, proudly announces the release of its latest suite of features, inspired by Amazon’s dedication to customer-centric innovation and operational excellence.

To address the latest record, Qardun Token announces new features inspired by Amazon’s commitment to innovation and user experience. With a focus on delivering seamless functionality and unmatched user experience, Qardun Token is revolutionizing how traders and investors interact with the cryptocurrency market.

Amazon’s rise to become one of the most influential companies in the world is built on its relentless focus on customer satisfaction, streamlined operations, and cutting-edge innovation. Qardun Token has adopted these principles to redefine its platform offerings, ensuring that cryptocurrency traders and investors benefit from a user-first approach that simplifies and enhances their experience.

Qardun Token’s new updates are designed to reflect the operational precision and customer-centric values that define Amazon’s success. These enhancements include:

Optimized User Interface for Seamless Navigation: Drawing inspiration from Amazon’s intuitive interface, Qardun Token has revamped its platform design to ensure that users can easily navigate and access the tools and insights they need. This improved interface streamlines the trading process, making it efficient and user-friendly.
Personalized Recommendations for Investments: Similar to Amazon’s personalized shopping recommendations, Qardun Token now offers tailored investment suggestions based on a user’s trading history, preferences, and market trends. This feature enables traders to discover opportunities that align with their financial goals.

Efficient Trade Execution Systems: To emulate Amazon’s commitment to speed and efficiency, Qardun Token has upgraded its trade execution system, ensuring faster transaction processing and reducing delays in market orders. This enhancement supports users in taking advantage of real-time market opportunities.
Comprehensive Market Analytics: Qardun Token introduces advanced analytics tools to provide users with detailed insights into market trends, token performance, and emerging opportunities. This data-driven feature allows users to make informed decisions in the rapidly evolving cryptocurrency market.
Enhanced Security Measures: Inspired by Amazon’s robust security infrastructure, Qardun Token has implemented advanced security protocols to protect user data and transactions. These measures ensure a safe and secure trading environment for all users.

Qardun Token mission to empower traders and investors aligns closely with Amazon’s philosophy of prioritizing user needs. By combining cutting-edge technology with a focus on accessibility and efficiency, Qardun Token is setting new standards for cryptocurrency platforms. These enhancements enable users to navigate the complexities of the crypto market with confidence and ease.

Whether you are a seasoned investor or a newcomer to the cryptocurrency world, Qardun Token’s latest features cater to users at all levels of expertise. The platform’s personalized recommendations, advanced analytics, and intuitive design ensure that everyone can benefit from its robust capabilities. As the cryptocurrency market continues to expand, Qardun Token remains committed to delivering innovative solutions inspired by the best practices of industry leaders like Amazon. The latest updates reflect Qardun Token’s dedication to providing an unparalleled trading experience for its users.

About Qardun Token:

Qardun Token is a cutting-edge cryptocurrency platform that provides advanced tools and insights for traders and investors. Dedicated to innovation and user satisfaction, Qardun Token simplifies cryptocurrency trading while empowering users to achieve their financial goals in a secure and efficient environment.

Extracted to Launch Eight Supplements and Open Flagship Store in Bath

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Extracted, a rapidly growing supplement brand from the UK, is making waves in the wellness sector with its latest announcement. Born from a personal quest for better sleep, the brand is preparing to release eight new supplement formulas designed to target a range of health concerns, alongside opening its first flagship store in Bath. This milestone reflects the brand’s impressive growth under the leadership of founders Toni and Dan.

The idea for Extracted originated from a personal health challenge: poor sleep. Toni, like one in three adults, struggled with chronic insomnia. Unimpressed by the lack of results from over-the-counter solutions and discouraged by the side effects of prescription medication, she and her husband Dan set out to find a natural alternative. Their efforts revealed a significant gap in the supplement industry, where products often contained low dosages, limited ingredient profiles, or excessive fillers.

“I was spending a fortune stacking different single supplements because nothing out there had everything I needed in the right amounts,” Toni recalls.

Rather than settle, the couple decided to act. Drawing on Dan’s entrepreneurial experience, they collaborated with nutritionists, doctors and industry experts to formulate Sleepee – a premium sleep supplement featuring 11 powerful, clinically backed ingredients at optimal dosages. What started as a small production run quickly gained traction as family, friends and eventually customers raved about the results.

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“We were overwhelmed by the response,” Toni says. “Before we knew it, we had a thriving business, and I made the leap to leave my marketing career after 11 years to focus on Extracted full-time.”

The success of Sleepee was just the beginning. Next came Flexee, a joint health supplement featuring Eggshell Membrane, an innovative ingredient renowned for its ability to support joint comfort and mobility. Flexee quickly became a customer favourite, rivalling the popularity of Sleepee. Other additions to the range include Reeplay, a vegetarian collagen supplement, and Multee, a comprehensive multivitamin with added supergreens.

Now, Extracted is gearing up for its most ambitious chapter yet. Eight new formulas are set to launch, addressing targeted health goals such as bladder strength, dry eye relief, immunity support and stress reduction. Each product is meticulously crafted with the same commitment to quality and efficacy that has defined the brand from the start.

Extracted is also preparing to open its flagship shop in the heart of Bath. More than just a retail space, the store will serve as a wellness hub, hosting expert-led workshops on topics like sleep, nutrition and menopause.

“We’re so excited to create a space where people can learn, connect and find solutions tailored to their health needs,” Toni shares.

With their innovative products and customer-first approach, Toni and Dan are transforming Extracted into a wellness empire. Their vision goes beyond supplements, aiming to empower individuals with the tools and knowledge to live healthier, more vibrant lives.

As the wellness industry continues to grow, Extracted stands out as a brand that delivers on its promise: high-quality, science-backed solutions for real people. From its humble beginnings to its current expansion, Extracted’s journey is a testament to the power of innovation, passion and a relentless commitment to making a difference.

Stay tuned for the official launch of their new product lines and the opening of their flagship store in Bath – a new chapter in Extracted’s mission to revolutionise wellness.

Maher Ali Rusho: Shaping the Future of Technology, AI, and Aerospace Engineering

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Maher Ali Rusho, an acclaimed Bangladeshi researcher, academic, and entrepreneur, continues to redefine the landscape of technology, artificial intelligence, and aerospace engineering. His appointment as Senior Scientist, along with the upcoming renaming of Unison AI Lab in February 2025, marks a new chapter in his illustrious career.

Since December 2024, Rusho has held the role of Senior Scientist in the Department of Computational Materials and Data Analytics at Mr. R Business Corporation. Under the mentorship of Dr. Raja Subramani at the Chennai Institute of Technology, he is driving research to enhance the strength and reliability of 3D-printed materials. His recent findings, published in Nature Scientific Reports, signify a key advancement in the field of material science.

Rusho is also the Founder and Head of Unison AI Lab, previously known as UntieAI. On 1 February 2025, the lab will celebrate its renaming in a ceremony dedicated to its evolving mission of fostering collaboration and innovation in artificial intelligence research.

Another notable milestone in 2024 was the launch of Quantum Frontier, a visionary project focused on Quantum Human-Computer Interaction (QHCI). By integrating quantum computing with user interface design, this initiative is poised to revolutionise digital platforms, particularly in the areas of personalisation and data analysis.

Speaking about his work, Rusho shared, “I believe the true potential of technology lies in its ability to address global challenges, from sustainability to space exploration. It’s an honour to collaborate with leading researchers and contribute to shaping the future.”

Rusho has authored more than 80 peer-reviewed articles, including publications in prestigious journals such as Nature Scientific Reports, De Gruyter’s International Journal of Chemical & Reactor Engineering, and Elsevier’s Computational & Theoretical Chemistry. His research on additively manufactured nickel-based superalloys for aerospace applications has garnered close to 200 citations, further solidifying his expertise.

His interdisciplinary research spans machine learning, data analytics, and astrophysical sustainability. A significant achievement includes his presentation at NASA’s Astrobiology and the Future of Life Meeting, where he discussed silicon carbide monolayers for gas detection in astrophysical applications.

As Head of the UAIRL Research Centre in Canada, Rusho continues to demonstrate his entrepreneurial leadership by focusing on sustainable technology, artificial intelligence, and advanced manufacturing. His efforts were recognised in June 2024, when Forbes India named him a trailblazer driving technological progress.

Rusho’s educational background reflects his dedication to interdisciplinary learning. He trained in NMR spectroscopy at York University, specialised in radiobiology at the University of Toronto’s Temerty Faculty of Medicine, and earned a graduate degree in engineering management from the University of Colorado Boulder.

As a reviewer for journals such as Applied Artificial Intelligence by Taylor & Francis, Rusho plays an active role in shaping cutting-edge research. With over 1,200 citations and an h-index of 16, his contributions have made a significant impact on academic and scientific communities.

Through his research and teaching, Rusho is paving the way for the next generation of scientists. His career demonstrates the transformative power of interdisciplinary work, uniting research, entrepreneurship, and education to address pressing global issues.

Nominations needed for local charities to receive grand donation

Nominations are now open for residents to vote for a local charity that could benefit from a grand donation.

Now in its seventh year, Movement for Good Awards, spearheaded by the Benefact Group, invites residents in Greater Manchester to nominate their favourite charities for a chance to receive £1,000.

Greater Manchester residents can make a nomination at www.movementforgood.com – a simple act that could have a lasting impact. Winners will be drawn at random, and the initiative will also feature special sector-specific draws, with charities able to secure larger grants of £5,000. The timetable for these draws is available on the website, with winners announced throughout the year.

The Movement for Good Awards has donated over £6 million to charities in the UK and Ireland since the initiative started in 2019.

Destination Florida (pictured), Chelwood Foodbank Plus and Community Little Hulton are some of the Greater Manchester causes that have previously benefitted from the funding thanks to more than 18,300 nominations from the public.

Mark Hews, group chief executive of Benefact Group, said: “Benefact Group is a family of award-winning specialist financial services companies and the third largest corporate donor to charity in the UK. Owned by a charity ourselves, charitable giving is at the heart of what we do. All of our available profits go to good causes and the more the Group grows, the more the Group can give.

“We are delighted to be able to donate over £1 million to good causes each year through our Movement for Good Awards and are grateful to all our supporters, including the customers of the trusted insurer, Ecclesiastical, and the responsible and sustainable asset manager, EdenTree. Our Movement for Good Awards help charities change lives for the better and we know that for many charities, £1,000 can make a real difference.”

The Benefact Group – a family of award-winning financial services companies – has donated over £230 million to charitable causes since 2014 and was recognised as the third biggest corporate giver in the UK last year.

With a goal to reach £250 million by 2025, the organisation is committed to ensuring its profits drive positive change.

Temporary road closure planned while pavements are widened

A section of the Bridgewater Viaduct (A56) is scheduled to close to allow pavements to be widened.

A temporary lane closure between Whitworth Street West (pictured) and Old Deansgate/Owen Street is due to come into effect from Monday, January 27.

The closure of the southbound carriageway – travelling out of Manchester – is planned to provide work crews a safe environment to carry out the widening of the pavement around the viaduct.

A diversion will be in place for those leaving the city centre, going along Whitworth Street West/Albion Street/Medlock Street.

The northbound carriageway – travelling into the city centre – will remain in use for motorists and cyclists.

This closure is planned to be in place for two weeks, extendable up to four weeks dependent on weather or if other unavoidable issues arise.

The council says it will endeavour to minimise disruption during this period, but motorists are advised to avoid this stretch of road where possible during the course of works. Steps will be put in place to manage traffic around busy periods to keep delays to a minimum.

Councillor Tracey Rawlins said: “This necessary closure will be put in place to ensure that workers in the road are able to carry out their jobs safely, and I would like to thank people in advance for their patience.”

For more information about this scheme please follow this link https://www.manchester.gov.uk/deansgate-what-is-happening

Bolton man jailed for sexual offences against a teenager

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A man who groomed two teenage girls has been jailed for sexual assault.

Hasseb Afzal (28) appeared at Bolton Crown Court, where he was sentenced to eight years in prison for sexual assault against a woman over the age of 16.

He was also made the subject of a Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO), and given a lifetime restraining order against two girls aged 16.

From May until July 2024, Afzal (pictured) would pick up the two 16-year-old girls in his car and buy them gifts including jewellery and watches. He also gave them alcohol, nitrous oxide and class A drugs.

On June 8, 2024, Afzal took the victim, a 16-year-old girl, to a pre-booked room at a hotel after giving her money to buy alcohol, where she woke up to him sexually assaulting her by touching her.

An investigation commenced in June 2024 after the parent of the victim reported the abuse to the police.

Following a thorough investigation, Afzal eventually pleaded guilty to one count of digital penetration, one count of sexual assault by touching, and one count of take/make indecent images of a woman aged 16 or over, on January 20.

Detective sergeant Ryan Lovick said: “Afzal preyed upon vulnerable young teenagers, and I am pleased he is now taken off the streets and in prison. 

“Sexual abuse can have a lasting detrimental impact for victims and survivors. Thank you to the brave victim and her family for coming forward and reporting this abuse. 

“I would like to take this opportunity to encourage anyone who has been a victim of sexual assault, or knows someone who has, to come forward and speak to the police. We will listen to you, and we will work at your pace, when you are ready.” 

Feel Good family events to return in Rochdale

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Free summer fun will be returning to the borough this year, with Rochdale Borough Council confirming Feel Good Family Picnic events will be staged again in 2025.

The popular days out for families pulled more than 15,000 people last year with events in Heywood, Middleton, Littleborough and Rochdale.

Line-up details will be announced in the spring, but the event will include days of free fun activities, performances, music, sports, dance, theatre and shows for children of all ages in local parks and once again visitors will be encouraged to bring a picnic.

Councillor Sue Smith, said: “After the huge visitor numbers we saw last year and all the fabulous feedback we had from families I am pleased to confirm it will be returning this summer. Planning is well under-way and we’ll be creating another amazing programme of free things to do during the school holidays.”

Dates and locations will be confirmed in the coming weeks.

The Feel Good Family Picnic will be staged by the council in partnership with Without Walls, a consortium of festivals and arts organisations bringing fantastic outdoor arts to people in towns and cities across England. It will be supported through the government’s Shared Prosperity Fund and Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA).

Local artists or organisations interested in being involved, can email: [email protected]

Revitalise Your Cooking Routine – Aztem Pilaf with Lamb and Angel Hair Pasta

Start your culinary journey this year with a dish full of tradition, bold flavours, and European inspiration. As part of the “EUROPEAN RICE” campaign, Aztem pilaf pairs tender lamb, European rice, and lightly toasted angel hair pasta to create a wholesome and satisfying meal.

Recipe: Aztem Pilaf with Lamb and Angel Hair Pasta

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup European rice
  • 500g lamb, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1/2 cup angel hair pasta, broken into small pieces
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 3 cups chicken or beef stock
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Brown the lamb, then set it aside.
  2. Add the onion and garlic to the pot, cooking until softened. Stir in the cumin and cinnamon.
  3. Toss in the angel hair pasta, toasting it lightly and stirring often.
  4. Add the European rice and return the lamb to the pot.
  5. Pour in the stock, season with salt and pepper, and bring to a boil. Cover, reduce the heat, and let simmer for 20 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid absorbed.
  6. Fluff with a fork, garnish with parsley, and serve immediately.

This Aztem pilaf is a testament to the exceptional quality and adaptability of European rice. Its hearty flavours and simplicity make it an excellent choice for any meal.

For more information about the “EUROPEAN RICE” campaign, upcoming events, and social media activities, please visit our website or follow us on our social media channels:
Facebook: europeanrice – www.facebook.com/europeanrice
Instagram: rice_eu – www.instagram.com/rice_eu
YouTube: rice_eu – www.youtube.com/rice_eu
Website: www.europeanrice.eu
About the “EUROPEAN RICE” Campaign:

The “EUROPEAN RICE” campaign is an EU-funded initiative dedicated to promoting the benefits, sustainability, and versatility of European rice in the UK and other global markets. It aligns with the EU’s objectives of enhancing the competitiveness and market presence of EU agri-food products worldwide, emphasizing sustainable practices and high-quality standards.

THE EUROPEAN UNION SUPPORTS CAMPAIGNS THAT PROMOTE HIGH-QUALITY AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS

Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are, however, those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Research Executive Agency (REA). Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.