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Record-breaking Root stars alongside Brook as England dominate day three against Pakistan

Jon Fisher
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Record-breaking Root stars alongside Brook as England dominate day three against Pakistan

Joe Root batted throughout day three to guide England back into the first Test against Pakistan, and wrote his name in the history books in the process.

The Yorkshireman became England’s highest run-scorer in Test cricket – surpassing Alastair Cook – by reaching 71 in Multan. He achieved it in the morning session with a beautiful straight drive for four off Aamer Jamal to record his 12,473 run in the longest format.

And he was still at the crease come the close as England reached 492 for three in reply to Pakistan’s 556 all out.

Root walked off on 176 not out alongside fellow Yorkshire batter Harry Brook who made an unbeaten 141 in an unbroken fourth-wicket stand of 243.

In moving past Cook, Root also edged up to fifth on the all-time Test scorers’ list behind Rahul Dravid, Jacques Kallis, Ricky Ponting and Sachin Tendulkar.

He is more than 3000 runs behind India great Tendulkar but Cook believes the 33-year-old is capable of chasing that figure down.

“I can see him overhauling Sachin Tendulkar’s record,” Cook told the BBC. “When I retired, I thought there was every chance that my record will be broken. I thought only the effects of captaincy and the hunger that takes out of you would stop him. I think the fact that Ben Stokes has taken over the captaincy has helped Root.

“You could say Sachin is still the favourite, but [only] just. He’s been so lucky with injuries. All great players who played for a long time have been lucky with injuries. You just never know what’s around the corner, but it has to be something like it that could stop him. But I don’t see that happening for Root to lose that hunger and ability to keep driving himself forward for the next couple of years.

“The only slight hurdle in his way will be the Ashes series – there is always something happening around the series. It’s in 14 months’ time and there’s always a story about the damage that happens or doesn’t happen around every Ashes series. I’d give Sachin 51 per cent and Root 49 per cent. But I would be betting on Root to do it.”

Root started the day on 32 alongside Zak Crawley but saw the opener depart relatively quickly, holing out to Aamer Jamal at midwicket off the bowling of Shaheen Shah Afridi for 78.

Ben Duckett shrugged off the effects of the thumb injury that prevented him from opening yesterday and looked good for his 84, although he would have been annoyed to miss out on a century by being trapped lbw by a ball from Jamal.

Neither Root nor Brook made that mistake. The former brought up three figures with a lovely reverse sweep as he registered his fifth century of 2024.

Brook followed after tea with a knock that was more aggressive than his county team-mate’s and continued his remarkable record in Pakistan. It was his fourth century in the country in four Tests after a breakthrough tour two years ago.

England will look to move past Pakistan’s first-innings total in the morning and establish a sizeable lead. However, it seems unlikely they will then be able to skittle the home side on a pitch that resembles a road and claim an early lead in the three-Test series.

Rudy’s confirms next Manchester pizzeria is in the bank

Helen Greaney
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Rudy’s confirms next Manchester pizzeria is in the bank

Rudy’s Pizza Napoletana has announced that it will bring its relaxed dining experience and renowned Neapolitan pizzas to Prestwich this December, and local foodies can claim one of 3,000 free pizzas here.

The new pizzeria will be located in the heart of Prestwich, transforming the former Barclays Bank building on Bury New Road, which has stood vacant since August 2022.

The spacious 3,000 sq ft venue will offer 150 covers, including a 30-seat covered courtyard to retain the charm of the building’s original features.

As the brand continues its mission to bring its well-loved neighbourhood concept to fans in Manchester’s vibrant suburbs—following the success of venues in Didsbury, Sale, and most recently Altrincham—this will mark the eighth location in Greater Manchester and the first in North Manchester.

The new spot will deliver a fresh new dining option to Prestwich’s blossoming food and drink scene, offering its famous pizzas, delicious dips, and classic Italian desserts. Whether dining with family or friends, guests can enjoy Rudy’s signature relaxed vibe while indulging in the brand’s iconic and exciting menu right on the high street.

Since launching in 2015 in Ancoats, Rudy’s quickly gained a cult following for its authentic Neapolitan dough and quality ingredients, and the new opening will mark the brand’s 29th pizzeria in the country.

Born from a passion for pizza, Rudy’s follows the authentic Neapolitan tradition of pizza-making, serving classic recipes such as Marinara, Margherita, and Calabrese—all originating from Naples, the birthplace of pizza. Alongside these year-round favourites, Rudy’s pizzaioli craft two rotating specials every six weeks, inspired by the freshest seasonal ingredients and influences from iconic pizzerias across Italy.

The brand’s pizza-making centres on ‘the holy trinity’ of ingredients sourced directly from Naples: Caputo ‘00’ flour for a light, airy crust, San Marzano tomatoes grown on the plains of Mount Vesuvius, and creamy Fior di Latte mozzarella, all combining to create the true taste of Neapolitan pizza.

Neal Bates of Rudy’s said: “We can’t wait to re-open the doors of this previously unloved venue in Prestwich and share our passion for Neapolitan pizza with our North Manchester fans and future Rudy’s lovers!

“With its ever popular high street, lively vibe and welcoming community, Prestwich is the perfect place for our next adventure, and we look forward to joining the incredible food and drink spots already here and contributing to the suburb’s success.”

The new Rudy’s Prestwich will create up to 40 jobs in the local area, including both front-of-house and pizzaiolo positions. Applicants can send CVs to: [email protected].

How does EquitiesFirst Financing fit into the Japanese Stock Market’s long-term outlook?

News Desk
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How does EquitiesFirst Financing fit into the Japanese Stock Market’s long-term outlook?

The Japanese stock market crash of August 2024, triggered by the Bank of Japan’s (BOJ) surprise interest rate hike in July, has left many wondering about the future of Japanese equities. But amid the uncertainty, a growing chorus of voices is advocating for a long-term perspective.

As the country emerges from decades of economic stagnation, investors and analysts are grappling with a crucial question: How can long-term growth potential be reconciled with short-term market volatility? Against this backdrop, EquitiesFirst’s equity-backed financing has emerged as a potential tool for Japanese businesses and shareholders.

The market shock and broader economic context

Japan’s economic resurgence has been marked by several promising indicators. Wage growth has exceeded 5% annually, unemployment has hit record lows, and consumer spending is on an upward trajectory. These positive trends have translated into improved corporate performance, with many Japanese companies reporting robust earnings and increased shareholder returns.

“The long-term underlying fundamentals remain fair,” Wilfred Sit, director and chief investment officer at Hang Seng Investment Management, told Japan Times. “Looking into next year, the Japanese economy can show more signs of a gradual recovery.”

However, the path to sustained growth is rarely smooth, as evidenced by the recent market shock. When the Bank of Japan unexpectedly raised interest rates on July 31, it sent shock waves through the financial system. The decision exposed the massive scale of the yen carry trade and triggered a series of dramatic market movements.

For decades, Japan’s ultra-low interest rates made the yen an attractive funding currency for carry trades. Investors would borrow yen cheaply, convert it to other currencies, and invest in higher-yielding assets abroad. As long as the yen didn’t appreciate significantly, investors could profit from the interest rate spread.

However, the BOJ’s unexpected rate hike in July dramatically altered this equation. As interest rates in Japan rose, the cost of funding for carry trades increased. Simultaneously, the prospect of higher rates in Japan made the yen more attractive, leading to its appreciation against other currencies.

This combination — higher borrowing costs and a strengthening yen — put enormous pressure on carry trade positions. Investors who had borrowed in yen to invest elsewhere suddenly faced the prospect of their funding costs rising and the value of their yen-denominated debts increasing as the currency appreciated.

On August 2, the Nikkei Stock Average posted its second-largest daily sell-off. Just days later, on August 5, it recorded its largest-ever single-day drop, surpassing even the infamous “Black Monday” crash of 1987. But in a dramatic reversal, August 6 saw the Nikkei experience its biggest one-day gain since 2008.

Long-term potential and short-term volatility

This period of extreme volatility revealed a gap between short-term speculators and those with longer positions. Margin trading, which typically accounts for about 70% of retail trading value in Japan, shrank by approximately 20% in the week ending August 9.

On the other hand, domestic institutional investors seized the opportunity, purchasing 794.2 billion yen (about $5.5 billion) of Japanese stocks at bargain prices in that same week. Foreign investors also showed confidence, making net purchases of 495.4 billion yen.

It’s in this context of long-term potential and short-term volatility that EquitiesFirst financing could garner attention. As a financial tool that allows investors to use their equity holdings to finance access to capital, it offers a potential means of maintaining long-term positions while addressing short-term liquidity needs.

Japan continues to transition from a bank-dominated financial system to a more diverse capital market, and tools that enhance liquidity and flexibility could be key to attracting and retaining long-term investors.

This is particularly relevant, given Japan’s ongoing efforts to reform its corporate governance and capital allocation practices. Many companies are adopting more shareholder-friendly policies, increasing dividends and share buybacks. The government has also introduced initiatives like the Nippon individual savings accounts to encourage more retail investment in equities.

In a recent Morgan Stanley report, more than half of Japanese companies surveyed indicated plans to increase dividends this year, well above the long-term average. Share buybacks are running at roughly four times the average of the last decade. These trends suggest a fundamental shift in how Japanese companies approach capital management and shareholder returns.

As Japan looks to the future, the interplay between long-term economic trends, short-term market dynamics, and financial tools like EquitiesFirst financing could shape the trajectory of its stock market.

Yue Bamba, head of active investments for Japan at BlackRock, offers an encouraging perspective: “The recent volatility doesn’t seem to have deterred long-term global investors, to the extent that it has cleaned up the positions among the fast [money] community,” he told Nikkei. Long-term investors are still doing their due diligence and starting to gradually include the asset class in their portfolios.”

Joe Root makes history as England’s leading run-scorer in Test cricket

Jon Fisher
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Joe Root makes history as England’s leading run-scorer in Test cricket

Joe Root today became the highest Test run-scorer in England history when he reached 71 against Pakistan in Multan.

The Yorkshireman hit a beautiful straight drive for four off Aamer Jamal to record his 12,473 run in the longest format and edge past Alastair Cook at the summit.

Root was typically understated in his celebrations, a shy wave of the hand and then the bat towards his team-mates on the balcony before knuckling down to continue his innings.

In surpassing Cook, Root also moved up to fifth on the all-time list of top-scorers in Test cricket.

Speaking before the first Test, Root downplayed the significance of the impending achievement, saying: “The only reason it’s on my mind is because people keep asking me about it, to be honest. 

“I see myself playing Test cricket for a lot longer. It’s not like I’m going to get to a certain mark or a number and say, ‘Right, I’m done now.’ I just want to keep enjoying the game, keep playing.”

England continued to fight back against Pakistan on day three of the first Test.

The hosts made 556 in their first innings with England moving to 232 for two at lunch. Root is 72 not out with Ben Duckett alongside on an unbeaten 80.

Duckett hurt his thumb late on day two and was unable to open but, having come in any number four, batted with purpose. 

The only wicket to fall in the morning session was that of Zak Crawley who departed for a well-made 78.

New £50,000 MBA Scholarships Announced for UK Scientists

News Desk
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New £50,000 MBA Scholarships Announced for UK Scientists

EIBF, a charity dedicated to promoting business education for engineers, has announced today that it will also focus on supporting scientists. Each year, the organisation will offer eight MBA scholarships of £50,000 to UK-based scientists.

The Sainsbury Management Fellows MBA scholarship programme, created by Lord Sainsbury of Turville in 1987, was originally established to help engineers gain business skills. The goal was to enable them to create their own high-tech businesses or rise to top positions in large UK companies.

The programme has enjoyed significant success, with more than 400 engineers graduating from prestigious business schools around the world. Known as Sainsbury Management Fellows, these graduates have created over 300 new businesses valued at nearly £5 billion, generating over 21,000 jobs across the UK.

Now, in a bid to further the UK’s economic prosperity and enhance its leadership in scientific research, the scholarship programme is expanding to include scientists. The new Sainsbury Science Management Fellows Scholarship will help UK scientists gain valuable business expertise.

This year, five scholarships will be available for full-time MBA study to scientists who demonstrate strong leadership qualities and a commitment to contributing to the UK economy. From 2025/26, the programme will offer eight scholarships each year. Scholars will attend leading UK business schools, including:

  • Saïd Business School, University of Oxford
  • Cambridge Judge Business School
  • Imperial College Business School
  • Warwick Business School
  • Alliance Manchester Business School
  • Cranfield School of Management

Applicants must have a science-related first degree, show clear dedication to advancing the UK economy, and be UK nationals currently residing in the country.

EIBF will partner with the National Physical Laboratory to manage the application process. To apply or for further details on the Sainsbury Science Management Fellows Scholarship, visit www.npl.co.uk/sainsbury-management-fellowships.

Selected scholars will become part of the prestigious SMF alumni network, which includes senior UK and global business leaders. Fellows engage in networking events and actively collaborate on business ventures.

Lord Sainsbury of Turville, the driving force behind the programme, said: “The success of the Sainsbury Engineering Management Fellows has led me to believe that we should widen the impact of the scholarship scheme by helping those who have scientific degrees to also acquire business skills. An MBA will provide scientists with credible business skills, allowing them to transform their innovations into commercial products.”

David Falzani MBE, Chair of EIBF, added: “We are grateful to Lord Sainsbury for providing the funding for the Sainsbury Science Management Fellowship Programme. We look forward to working with the National Physical Laboratory to provide this excellent opportunity to UK scientists. Along with all the Sainsbury Engineering Management Fellows, we look forward to welcoming the scientists who will add inestimable value and diversity to our networking community.”

Newly Launched PersonalisedChampagne.com Offers Bespoke Gifting Experience in the UK

News Desk
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Newly Launched PersonalisedChampagne.com Offers Bespoke Gifting Experience in the UK

PersonalisedChampagne.com has made its official debut, offering UK customers a new way to personalise luxury Champagne gifts for all kinds of occasions. Whether it’s for weddings, anniversaries, corporate events, or birthdays, this service allows you to create a unique and elegant gift with ease.

At the heart of PersonalisedChampagne.com is customisation. Customers can personalise their Champagne bottles with bespoke labels and select from five different gift sets. The website’s user-friendly design enables shoppers to add up to three lines of custom text, preview the label instantly, and choose the ideal gift set to accompany their bottle.

Paul, founder of PersonalisedChampagne.com, said: “We wanted to create a service that transforms a bottle of Champagne into something truly personal and memorable. Whether it’s a romantic gesture or a corporate thank-you, we believe that every celebration deserves a unique touch, and that’s what we aim to deliver.”

The five distinctive gift sets, which include options such as luxury chocolates, flutes, hampers, and flowers, are designed to enhance the personalised bottle, creating a truly memorable gift.

Here’s how it works:

  • Pick a Label: Select from a range of beautiful designs or personalise the classic label with up to three lines of text.
  • Choose a Gift Set: Select from five luxurious options, such as Champagne & Chocolates or Champagne & Flowers.
  • Add a Personal Message: Include a free personalised message on a sleek plastic card, which will be enclosed with your gift.
  • Choose a Delivery Date: Benefit from free next-day delivery to 98% of UK addresses if you order by 3pm Monday to Thursday, with Saturday delivery available for a small additional fee.
  • Checkout: The site offers a quick and convenient checkout process, accepting Apple Pay, Google Pay, and all major credit cards.

PersonalisedChampagne.com offers a unique, customisable gift service that combines luxury and convenience. Whether celebrating a festive occasion or marking a personal milestone, the platform provides an easy way to give a bespoke, high-quality gift.

With a focus on personalisation and swift delivery, PersonalisedChampagne.com aims to become the premier choice for personalised Champagne gifts across the UK.

For more information, visit personalisedchampagne.com.

England suffer Duckett blow after another testing day against Pakistan

Jon Fisher
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England suffer Duckett blow after another testing day against Pakistan

England endured another miserable day in Multan as Pakistan strengthened their grip on the first Test.

On a pitch that offered little assistance to the bowlers, Pakistan amassed 556 – Salman Agha becoming the hosts’ third centurion of the innings – with England’s reply hampered by an injury to opener Ben Duckett.

Duckett hurt his left thumb when taking a catch to dismiss Pakistan’s last man Abrar Ahmed, his absence at the top of the England order seeing captain Ollie Pope promote himself alongside Zak Crawley.

Unfortunately, Pope’s selflessness was not rewarded as he lasted just two balls before pulling a short ball from Naseem Shah that seemed destined for the boundary only for Aamer Jamal to produce a stunning, one-handed catch at mid-wicket.

Crawley, who missed the recent series win over Sri Lanka through injury, batted well to reach a run-a-ball 64 not out at the close.

Joe Root also played well for his unbeaten 32 as England moved to 96 for one at the end of day two, a deficit of 460.

Pakistan started the day on 328 for four with England set for another day of toil in the field, and so it proved.

Saud Shakeel batted diligently for his 82 while night watcher Naseem Shah contributed a useful 33.

Naseem’s departure proved again the old adage that ‘one brings two’ as Mohammad Rizwan also went quickly without scoring. And with Pakistan at 397 for six, England were playing their way back into the contest.

That was until Salman got to work in the afternoon session. The 30-year-old took a particular liking to spinner Jack Leach although one big shot too many almost proved his downfall, Chris Woakes deemed not have taken the catch on the boundary after numerous replays.

A swept single saw him reach three figures and he finished on 104 not out before running out of partners.

Motoring expert warns how clock watching can cost you £200

Helen Greaney
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Motoring expert warns how clock watching can cost you £200

Manchester drivers have been warned that simply checking the time on their mobile phone while behind the wheel could land them with six points and a £200 fine.

Laws about the use of handheld devices have been strengthened in recent years, on the back of research that demonstrated how distracting they can be.

Taking calls, sending WhatsApp messages and posting on social media are all major no-nos in the eyes of the law.

There are even strict rules about employing your smartphone as a sat-nav – it must be in a fixed position and journeys planned in full before embarking.

But one little-known aspect of having your phone in your car is that simply “illuminating the screen” is viewed in exactly the same way.

And with many people using their mobile devices to tell the time, rather than wearing a watch, this could be something that catches out millions of Brits.

Mark Tongue, joint CEO of leading vehicle leasing firm Select Van Leasing, said: “You would have to have been living under a rock not to know how seriously the authorities take the offence of driving while using a mobile phone or smart device.

“There have been numerous campaigns to spread awareness and it does seem that the message is getting through to most people.

“But there are always some who insist they are above the law and continue to use their phones in extremely dangerous circumstances.

“However, there are also plenty of people who don’t realise that even a quick press on the screen to check the time can land them in trouble.

“That’s because it is likely to distract them, even for a split second, from concentrating on the road.”

Section 110 of the Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986 states: “No person shall drive a motor vehicle on a road if he is using a hand-held mobile telephone.”

It goes on to outline what defines usage, which includes “illuminating the screen” and “checking the time”.

According to Department for Transport figures, there were 15,300 prosecutions for “using or causing others to use a handheld mobile phone whilst driving” last year.

In terms of incidents, 22 people were killed and 652 injured in collisions in Great Britain “where the driver was assigned the contributory factor of using a mobile phone”.

Most people will be looking at a £200 fine and six points on their licence if they are caught. But this can extend to a driving ban and £1,000 fine in more serious cases.

Select Van Leasing’s Mr Tongue said: “The message here is to consider your smartphone completely off limits while you are driving.

“If you do want to use it as a sat-nav, buy a decent holder – which are fairly cheap online – and programme in any routes before you set off, including scheduled stops.

“While it is not against the law to answer a call using a bluetooth speaker system that most modern cars have, it’s worth remembering that this can also be a distraction.

“So think whether it is vital to do so and maybe just wait until you reach your destination before calling someone back.”

Fright delight for jump fans at Trafford Park’s Inflata Nation

Helen Greaney
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Fright delight for jump fans at Trafford Park’s Inflata Nation
Inflata Nation Manchester is launching the ultimate competition that will have both kids and adults bouncing with excitement this month.
The indoor inflatable theme park, based in Trafford Park, will automatically enter every customer who books a session in October into a competition to win exclusive hire of the epic arena.
The lucky winner can invite 100 guests – whether it’s the whole family, best mates, school class, or even their football team.
It’s part of the #SpookNation campaign that is making Inflata Nation the go-to leisure activity this Halloween.
Imagine the fun as you and your gang dive into massive ball pits, surge down gigantic slides and take on thrilling obstacle courses without having to share with anyone else!
With heaps of space and tons of inflatables, this is the perfect way to celebrate a birthday, throw a party, or simply enjoy some high adrenaline fun. It’s your chance to create memories that will last a lifetime.
To enter, simply book your Inflata Nation session anytime in October. It’s time to bounce your way to victory.
The winner’s exclusive arena hire will be available off-peak, which means not at a weekend or during the school holidays.
One-hour bounce sessions at Inflata Nation Manchester cost £6.99 for under-fours and £13.99 for everyone else. For more information and to book, visit www.inflatanation.com/locations/manchester/.

Lighting the way in art: Bolton’s Neon Creations

Helen Greaney
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Lighting the way in art: Bolton’s Neon Creations

If you’ve got Abby Clancy, Peter Crouch, Little Mix and a whole host of famous faces among your customers, you must be doing something right.

Neon Creations Ltd make fabulously funky signs and pieces of art using neon lights at their impressive studio in Bolton.

And the most thrilling part for London-born owner Tony Spink, is that because his hobby has turned into his dream career, he loves going to work every day.

PXL 20240930 105543609

Customers enjoy approaching the company as they know they’ll get a unique piece of art with 40 colours for neon lights available. Using phospherous powder, neon gas and coloured glass the team makes some wonderful artistic signs and artworks to any specification.

You’ll see their neon signs up at Almost Famous restaurants in Manchester and even on the Coronation Street cobbles in Weatherfield.

And with that kind of exposure it’s not hard to see why their work has become so popular.

Following the covid pandemic Brits have become more interested in making their homes strikingly individual. Artisan businesses that create bespoke pieces of furniture and artwork are in high demand as they can give rooms a unique twist for a reasonable cost.

The hype all started as a youngster when Tony spotted an advert in London for a ‘neon glass bender’ and was so intrigued that he applied. He had wanted to work for a company that made signs as he loves the process of seeing a finished product.

After learning all the tricks of the trade for several years, even offering to work extra hours in his lunch breaks to gather every bit of skill he could, he finally decided to set up his own neon lights company in Manchester.

Since he co-founded Neon Creations in 2005, he has developed his passion into a viable business which has grown from strength to strength – and he’s always the last to leave the workshop each night, unless Millwall FC are on the telly.

His wife Catherine even quit her marketing job to help Tony set the artisan skill aside from the LED lighting being offered by some online companies.

PXL 20240930 105339844.MP

Tony (pictured) said: “People talk about getting neon lights for their restaurant or their bar or their home, and order these LED ones from China. It’s just not the same thing. Cheap plastic LED lights don’t last as long or offer the same 360 degrees illumination, and of course, they’re not filled with neon gas.

“There is no machinery that makes these lights. The first neon lights were created in 1912 and they’re still made the same way today. It’s an absolute skill that takes years to master as everything is done by hand.

“We’ve got a really good reputation here. I really am a stickler for quality not quantity.”

Most of Tony’s custom made neon signs are supplied either ready to hang or fully encased in an acrylic box/panel, all you have to do is plug it in and admire! But the team also offers help with installing larger products.

Custom made bar signs start at £350+VAT but Tony’s unique artwork using lights (pictured) start at £2,400+VAT.

For more information, or to try your hand on a glass bending workshop, visit:Neon Signs | Custom Made Neon Signs | Neon Creations.

You can see some of Tony’s work at a Neon Art Exhibition – Glass & Light: A neon journey since 1912 – until October 29 (closed Sundays and Mondays) at Castle Park Arts Centre in Frodsham, Cheshire.

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