England slumped to 24-3 at the end of day two in Rawalpindi to leave themselves facing a Test series defeat to Pakistan.
Saud Shakeel’s century saw Pakistan build a first-innings lead of 77 before England’s top order crumbled in nine overs before the close.
Openers Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley and the out-of-form Ollie Pope all failed with the bat, with Pope falling for just one.
It was Pakistan who looked in trouble at 177-7 when Rehan Ahmed took three wickets in the morning.
But an eighth-wicket stand of 88 turned the tide and the late flurry of wickets leave England with a mountain to climb.
Duckett was spared by the on-field umpire when Sajid Khan had him plumb lbw for 12, but the impassioned appeal suggested the bowler knew he had his man and DRS quickly agreed.
Crawley was static on the crease as Noman Ali got him lbw to make it four from four in their head-to-head battles.
Pope was next up and his painful run continued, jabbing Noman to slip just before bad light intervened having contributed just one.
That took his series output to 55 in five innings and will do little to quell question marks over his seemingly rock solid grip on the number-three position.
Novae.Travel, a cutting-edge AI travel platform, has revealed the world’s first fully functional multi-agent AI system for seamless travel planning. This innovative system offers unparalleled accuracy and personalised recommendations, representing a shift towards a more dynamic, adaptable travel solution than conventional single-assistant platforms.
The platform integrates multiple specialised AI agents that work in tandem to cover all aspects of travel, from flights and accommodation to budgets and activity planning, ensuring meticulous attention to detail.
For instance, if planning a journey from London to Bangkok, the system handles time zone differences, flight lengths, and layovers, creating a seamless itinerary. Whether suggesting efficient routes or offering local recommendations, Novae.Travel’s multi-agent AI consistently provides reliable, context-based advice.
“Planning fully integrated and personalised holidays using AI has eluded all AI travel planners until now,” says Chinedu Achara, Founder and Managing Director of Proaptus Ltd. “Our multi-agent system enables us to deliver a level of precision and personalisation that sets us apart from other AI travel platforms.”
This platform addresses the restrictions of single-assistant systems, with its modular architecture enabling superior handling of complex travel plans. Each agent is highly optimised, allowing the platform to incorporate new features as needed.
Agents are responsible for tasks like creating a personalised budget, listing all costs, and providing real-time recommendations, making the system a significant improvement over traditional travel AI.
Core Benefits of Novae.Travel’s Multi-Agent Design:
Bespoke Itinerary Generation: Customised plans encompass flights, accommodation, activities, and local recommendations.
Dynamic Travel Mode Selection: The AI chooses the best mode—by car, public transport, or flight—using up-to-date data.
Reliable Local Suggestions: Novae.Travel avoids AI “hallucinations,” ensuring that recommendations are relevant.
Budget Transparency: The platform offers an itemised list of expenses, allowing users to stay within budget.
Novae.Travel is free to use, inviting users to experience its innovative AI at novae.travel, where they can plan itineraries, budgets, and more.
Additionally, Proaptus is developing Novae.Lighthouse, which uses the same AI architecture for monitoring infrastructure, including fibre optics and rail, showcasing the AI’s versatility.
Cornish Lithium, a UK-based mineral exploration firm, has collaborated with Aztek, a leading Managed Service Provider, to establish critical IT infrastructure at its new lithium extraction demonstration facility in Cornwall. This partnership is an important step in advancing sustainable lithium production, a key component of the UK’s green energy transition.
Since 2016, Cornish Lithium has worked with Aztek, who have supported the company’s growth by providing foundational IT infrastructure. This has evolved over time from a basic setup to a comprehensive system capable of handling the demands of lithium extraction. The most recent collaboration is focused on the Trelavour Project near St Austell, where Cornish Lithium is working on extracting lithium from hard rock.
The demonstration plant, which was launched earlier this month, is crucial to the UK’s lithium production goals, meeting the rising demand for electric vehicle batteries and clean energy technologies. Cornish Lithium’s investment in this facility aims to create a secure, domestic source of lithium, reducing the UK’s dependency on imports and furthering its low-carbon future.
Aztek’s contribution to the project includes installing secure wireless internet, advanced IT systems, dedicated servers, and CCTV to ensure the plant operates both efficiently and securely. Their Managed IT Support and Cyber Security services provide essential protection, particularly in today’s digital age where cyber threats pose a significant risk to the success of green energy initiatives.
Anthony Hudson, Managing Director of Aztek, said: “We’re proud to have been part of Cornish Lithium’s journey from the very beginning. Our goal has always been to provide a secure and scalable IT infrastructure that not only supports their immediate needs but also their long-term vision. The work we’ve done at the Trelavour Project is designed to ensure that Cornish Lithium has the robust digital foundation needed to advance their green energy goals.”
Jeremy Wrathall, Chairman of Cornish Lithium, added: “Aztek’s expertise in IT infrastructure has been instrumental in helping us reach this critical point. Their support allows us to focus on developing sustainable lithium extraction technologies, confident in the knowledge that our digital infrastructure is in safe hands.”
The plant marks a significant milestone for both Cornish Lithium and the UK’s clean energy sector. As the country pushes towards lowering carbon emissions and expanding electric vehicle use, this initiative is expected to play an important role in the future of sustainable energy production.
Fifty brand new apartments for the over 55s including three neighbourhood apartments are now underway at the Chorlton Baths site in South Manchester.
Chorlton Leisure Centre has been closed since 2015 but the new scheme will provide 47 social rent apartments, a mix of one and two-bed, for the over 55’s, with three additional neighbourhood apartments.
The initiative aims to help those needing support and adapted accommodation following a hospital stay move out of hospital and back into the community more quickly before returning to their home.
The apartments will be offered at social rent and will support Manchester City Council’s housing strategy target to help deliver at least 10,000 council, social and genuinely affordable homes up to 2032.
More than £14 million will be invested into this particular scheme through a mix of funding from Homes England, Greater Manchester Combined Authority, Manchester City Council and MSV Housing.
Demolition of the old Chorlton Leisure Centre is well under way and the site is being cleared so that work can progress on the development situated on Manchester Road. A few architectural stones, some old tiles and other original features have been salvaged which will be sympathetically incorporated into the new design.
The scheme will adhere to the HAPPI (Housing Our Ageing Population Panel) principles. Two adjoining blocks will be built, with a central lift, making mobility for residents much easier, whilst prioritising space, flexibility, and wellbeing and catering for residents’ evolving needs over time.
There will be a community space and a residents’ lounge with the emphasis of the scheme being on maximising the excellent public transport links locally and reducing car usage.
The community space, which will be available to rent by local groups to hold meetings, workshops etc, will bring the neighbouring community and residents together, creating a cohesive and welcoming space.
Working with Manchester City Council, Caddick Construction and Manchester architects Buttress and Simon Fenton Partnerships, the MSV development is scheduled for completion in 2026.
Councillor Gavin White said: “The former leisure centre site has been a target for affordable housing for some time so it’s great to see MSV bring this development to site.
“Not only are these homes low carbon and affordable – this development will also provide muchneeded housing for older people to the heart of Chorlton, while bringing a long-term unused brownfield site back into use – a site that has become an eyesore in recent years.
“We know there is demand for this type of housing in Chorlton and we look forward to welcoming the first residents in 2026”
Charlie Norman, chief executive of MSV Housing Group, said: “I can’t tell you how pleased I am that this scheme is now on site. The way people live is changing, and its essential we can provide age appropriate homes for older people in Manchester, offering a warm, safe and comfortable environment to flourish, in a brilliant location close to the shops, transport and medical facilities.
“At the same time, we expect it to free up larger social homes in the area for families who are struggling in cramped or over-crowded homes. I want to thank our colleagues at Manchester City Council for partnering with MSV on this key development.”
Sale Sharks Women have signed a ground breaking partnership deal with award-winning sports bra brand MAAREE.
The deal is the first of its kind in Premiership Women’s Rugby and will see the Sharks players wear custom-fitted MAAREE sports bras in this season’s campaign and beyond.
These sports bras are meticulously designed and engineered to enhance an athlete’s performance. World-leading Overband® Technology reduces the upward motion of breasts during activity, ensuring athletes can focus on the game without distraction or discomfort.
This unique technology is a game-changer in high-impact sports like rugby, where a lack of support and comfort can significantly impact performance.
Properly fitted bras are arguably the most important factor in overall comfort and yet, according to MAAREE, 80 per cent of women wear incorrectly fitted sports bras.
The Sharks players made sure they were fully equipped for the new campaign thanks to an in-person fitting session with MAAREE at the club’s Carrington training ground, where the players were measured for the perfect fit and able to try different designs.
Sale Sharks Women’s captain Georgie Perris-Redding said: “We know how important it is to get the right fit when it comes to our matchday and training kit and it was brilliant to have the chance to spend time with MAAREE to make sure the whole squad was measured.
“Elite sport is about fine margins. MAAREE are right at the top of their game and we know the technology involved in their bras can significantly improve the team’s performance and the breast health of our players.
“We want to help grow the women’s game on and off the field and partnerships like this are a huge step forwards.”
MAAREE founder Mari Thomas-Welland said: “We are incredibly proud to support Sale Sharks Women for their upcoming season.
“A well-fitting sports bra is crucial for an athlete’s performance, providing the necessary support and comfort to focus on the game without any unwanted distractions. It was a privilege to personally fit each player, ensuring they have the perfect size, style, and support level to enhance their performance on the field.
“We’re excited to continue empowering these incredible athletes as they take on the season with confidence and strength.”
MAAREE bras are available in 54 sizes and with 8 points of adjustability: Racerback vs. H-back, overband tension, and underband clasps.
Tickets for Sale Sharks Women’s fixtures are available here. The team take on Bristol Bears at Heywood Rd this weekend.
Jamie Smith smashed a brilliant 89 as England just about survived the perils of a Rawalpindi pitch set up for spin.
Pakistan’s decision to dry out a track normally conducive to batting meant there was uncertainty around how it would play. As it turned out, it was pretty much as expected as uneven bounce and turn were evident with Pakistan employing solely spinners in the first innings for just the second time in Test history, and first since 1882.
England were in deep trouble at 118 for six but Smith and Gus Atkinson put on 105 for the seventh wicket as the tourists made 267 – Sajid Khan claiming six for 128.
Pakistan reached 73 for three by the close, setting up a fascinating couple of days with the series on the line at 1-1.
That’s stumps on Day 1 🤝
Wickets from Shoaib Bashir, Jack Leach and Gus Atkinson have set up an intriguing Day 2 in Rawalpindi. pic.twitter.com/XoNh9eFYvv
England started well with openers Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett putting on 56 for the first wicket before the former went for 29.
Ollie Pope (three) and Joe Root (five) were undone by Sajid and when Duckett, who made an excellent 52, and Harry Brook (five) went in successive overs, England were reeling at 98 for five.
Captain Ben Stokes (12) didn’t last long either to leave Smith to battle it out with the lower order.
He found a useful ally in Atkinson, who again showed he is no mug with the bat. His stickability enabled Smith to go on the attack at the other end and six sixes and five fours showed his intent.
Atkinson’s departure for 39 was soon followed by Smith with Jack Leach’s potentially impactful 16 helping England to a workable figure.
It looked like an excellent total when Shoaib Bashir, Leach and Atkinson all struck as Pakistan limped to 46 for three. But captain Shan Masood and Saud Shakeel saw the hosts through to the close with no more setbacks.
As insolvency rates in the UK hit a 20-year peak, Clarke Bell, a leading insolvency expert, cautions that the forthcoming Autumn Budget could push even more businesses towards liquidation. Set to be unveiled on 30th October 2024, the Budget is expected to include tax changes and spending cuts that could particularly impact small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
Currently, businesses are three times more likely to face liquidation than before the pandemic, and Clarke Bell advises company directors to consider alternatives like Creditors’ Voluntary Liquidation (CVL) and Members’ Voluntary Liquidation (MVL) to avoid financial catastrophe.
With the Budget looming, businesses across the UK are already facing significant challenges. Rising costs, higher interest rates, and inflation have created an uncertain environment. Business confidence has dipped by 1.7% this year alone.
The government is expected to introduce fiscal measures that could further strain struggling businesses, including:
Potential changes to Capital Gains Tax (CGT), aligning it with income tax and reducing available reliefs.
Possible hikes in Employer National Insurance contributions, increasing the operational costs for businesses.
John Bell, Licensed Insolvency Practitioner, Fellow of the ICAEW, and Senior Partner at Clarke Bell, commented:
“With insolvency rates at record levels, the combination of existing financial pressures and new measures from the Autumn Budget could lead to a significant rise in business closures. Directors need to act now to explore their options.”
For solvent businesses looking to wind down, Clarke Bell’s Members’ Voluntary Liquidation (MVL) service offers a tax-efficient way to do so. However, potential changes to Capital Gains Tax (CGT) and Business Asset Disposal Relief (BADR) may increase tax liabilities for those who delay the process.
John Bell adds:
“Directors planning to close their solvent companies should act swiftly, particularly in light of expected changes to Capital Gains Tax and BADR. Our MVL service ensures they can extract maximum value in a tax-efficient manner before any potential tax increases are implemented.”
For companies facing insurmountable debt, Clarke Bell’s Creditors’ Voluntary Liquidation (CVL) service provides a structured and responsible way to close down, allowing directors to protect themselves from legal action.
John Bell concludes:
“We’ve seen an increasing number of directors reaching out for advice on CVL. The process offers a solution for businesses that can no longer meet their financial obligations, helping directors close their companies in an orderly fashion.”
With the Autumn Budget on the horizon, Clarke Bell continues to offer expert advice to help businesses navigate these uncertain times, providing tailored solutions for both solvent and distressed companies.
Hosted by renowned Customer Growth Coach and Speaker, Mark A Preston, the Talk About Digital Podcast is providing small businesses with the help they’ve been searching for. This podcast doesn’t just offer broad advice; it directly addresses the SMEs that often feel excluded from the high-budget digital marketing strategies dominating the scene. Talk About Digital is transforming the way these businesses think about growth, offering realistic, affordable strategies that any small business owner can use—not just marketing professionals.
Small business owners, many of whom are already stretched thin, are finding clarity in Mark’s podcast. Rather than adding to the confusion with complex jargon or expensive solutions, the podcast delivers straightforward advice on growing customer bases with minimal expenditure. The immediate “wow” for listeners is that Mark isn’t just offering theories—he’s providing a way to escape the digital marketing maze. Each weekly episode demonstrates that sustainable growth can be achieved without hiring costly agencies or navigating confusing strategies.
Why This Podcast is a Must for Small Businesses:
Specifically for SMEs: Talk About Digital is tailored for small and medium-sized business owners, delivering quick, actionable advice that doesn’t require a steep learning curve.
Immediate Results: The advice is practical and can be put to use immediately. Business owners can start using Mark’s tips today and see results as soon as tomorrow. It’s about small steps that yield big results.
Straight to the Point: Each episode is brief but packed with value. Mark knows his listeners are busy, so he cuts out unnecessary details, focusing solely on delivering actionable insights.
Listeners have praised the podcast for its clear, no-nonsense guidance, with many noting how Mark’s advice feels personally tailored to their needs. His straightforward approach provides much-needed insights that business owners can apply straight away to see real growth.
Mark A Preston, Founder and Host of the Talk About Digital Podcast, says: “I created this podcast to offer small business owners the same straightforward, practical advice that I’ve shared with clients for over two decades. My goal is to make digital marketing easy to understand and implement, helping them achieve the kind of growth they deserve.”
Many SMEs have felt abandoned by traditional marketing advice, often giving up on digital marketing because it feels too complex or costly. The Talk About Digital Podcast finally puts these businesses in the spotlight, offering them the support they need to thrive.
This podcast goes beyond mere advice—it’s a movement aimed at bringing small businesses back into the digital marketing conversation, delivering real results for those who need it the most.
Podcast Information:
The Talk About Digital Podcast is available on all major platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts. New episodes are released every Monday, filled with practical insights for business owners. You can also listen at https://www.talkaboutdigital.co.uk.
Rehan Ahmed has been recalled to the England team as part of a three-pronged spin attack for the third and final Test against Pakistan which starts on Thursday.
The 20-year-old is included alongside Jack Leach and Shoaib Bashir with the pitch in Rawalpindi expected to turn.
Seamer Gus Atkinson returns having missed the second Test defeat in Multan with Durham duo Matthew Potts and Brydon Carse left out.
Ahmed has won four caps for England after making his debut in Pakistan two years ago, taking five for 48 in the third Test in Karachi.
England batter Harry Brook told BBC Sport: “We know it’s probably not going to swing and seam and do all sorts in the first session, so we look at the pitch and work out what the best team is going to be.
“He [Ahmed] is an outstanding cricketer. It’s not just his bowling, but his batting and fielding. He’s a young lad so he has a lot of time to come.
“He got five-for in the last Test here, so hopefully he can do that again.”
England will have to stave off the threat of Pakistan spin duo Noman Ali and Sajid Khan, who took all 20 wickets as the hosts claimed victory last week.
Yorkshire’s Brook added: “We’ll still look to score against them and put them under the pump. I’ll go about it a little bit differently, so we’ll see how we get on.”
The England team for the third Test is: Crawley, Duckett, Pope, Root, Brook, Stokes (c), Smith (wk), Atkinson, Ahmed, Leach, Bashir
Navigating the world of online trading requires not only skill and strategy but also a solid understanding of the legal frameworks governing trading platforms. Soros Trading excels in this area by prioritizing transparency, security, and compliance with international regulations. This Sorostrading.com Review will explore the legal documents and frameworks that the platform employs to safeguard its users, fostering a trustworthy trading environment.
Key documents such as terms and conditions, privacy policies, and regulatory compliance certificates demonstrate Soros Trading’s commitment to maintaining high standards. By adhering to international laws and regulations, the platform ensures that traders’ funds are secure and their personal information is protected.
Examining these aspects in detail allows prospective traders to gain insights into the reliability of Soros Trading as a brokerage. Understanding the legal frameworks in place is crucial for making informed decisions in the dynamic landscape of online trading.
Legal Framework of Soros Trading
Soros Trading operates under a comprehensive legal framework that prioritizes compliance, security, and transparency. The platform’s dedication to adhering to international regulations is reflected in its legal documents, which outline the rights and responsibilities of both the brokerage and its users. Let’s explore the essential legal documents that form the backbone of Soros Trading’s operations.
1. Client Agreement
The Client Agreement is a fundamental document that outlines the terms and conditions governing the relationship between Soros Trading and its users. This agreement includes key aspects such as the obligations of both parties, the nature of services provided, and the rights of traders.
Obligations and Rights: The agreement clearly defines what is expected from both the trader and Soros Trading, ensuring that users understand their responsibilities when engaging with the platform.
Dispute Resolution: In case of disagreements, the Client Agreement provides a framework for dispute resolution, ensuring a fair and structured approach to resolving issues that may arise.
2. Privacy Policy
In today’s digital age, protecting personal data is of paramount importance. Soros Trading’s Privacy Policy outlines how the brokerage collects, uses, and protects users’ personal information.
Data Collection: The policy specifies the types of information collected during the registration and trading process, including personal identification and financial data.
Data Protection Measures: Soros Trading employs advanced security measures, such as SSL encryption, to safeguard users’ data from unauthorized access, highlighting its commitment to privacy.
3. Risk Disclosure Document
Trading inherently involves risks, and Soros Trading provides a Risk Disclosure Document to inform users about these potential risks. This document is crucial for both novice and experienced traders as it outlines:
Market Risks: It describes the volatility of the financial markets and how such fluctuations can affect trading outcomes.
Leverage Risks: The document also emphasizes the risks associated with trading on margin, educating users on the potential for significant losses alongside potential gains.
4. Withdrawal and Deposit Policy
Understanding the procedures for deposits and withdrawals is essential for any trader. Soros Trading’s Withdrawal and Deposit Policy provides clarity on:
Transaction Methods: This section outlines the various methods available for deposits and withdrawals, including credit/debit cards and e-wallets.
Processing Times: Users are informed about the expected processing times for transactions, ensuring transparency regarding how quickly they can access their funds.
5. Terms and Conditions
The Terms and Conditions document is a comprehensive guide that details the rules and regulations governing the use of Soros Trading’s services. This document covers various aspects, including:
Account Management: It explains how users can manage their accounts, including the responsibilities associated with maintaining account security.
Service Limitations: The document clarifies the limitations of services provided by Soros Trading, ensuring that users have a clear understanding of what to expect.
Importance of Legal Documents for Traders
Understanding the legal documents associated with a trading platform is crucial for traders of all experience levels. Here’s why:
Transparency and Trust
Legal documents provide transparency regarding the operations of Soros Trading, fostering trust between the brokerage and its users. When traders are aware of their rights and responsibilities, they can make informed decisions, which enhances their overall trading experience.
Risk Awareness
The Risk Disclosure Document, in particular, serves to educate traders about the inherent risks involved in trading. This knowledge allows users to approach the markets with a clear understanding of potential pitfalls and enables them to implement risk management strategies effectively.
Security Assurance
The Privacy Policy and Cookie Policy reassure traders that their personal information is handled securely. Understanding these policies helps users feel more comfortable providing their personal and financial data, ultimately enhancing user confidence in the platform.
User Experience and Accessibility
Soros Trading places a strong emphasis on delivering an accessible and user-friendly experience tailored to all traders, regardless of their skill level. Whether you are a novice looking to learn the ropes or an experienced professional seeking advanced trading tools, Soros Trading has something to offer everyone. The platform’s intuitive design ensures that users can navigate easily, allowing for a seamless trading experience. Furthermore, the educational resources and support available make it easy for beginners to get started, while seasoned traders will appreciate the advanced features. This commitment to accessibility and usability is a key highlight in this Sorostrading.com Review.
Intuitive Interface
The platform’s interface is crafted to be intuitive and straightforward, ensuring users can easily navigate its various features. The clean layout and logical organization of tools allow traders to focus on their strategies without the frustration of complex navigation. This user-friendly design enhances the overall trading experience, making it accessible for both beginners and seasoned professionals. It’s clear that the emphasis on a seamless interface significantly contributes to a trader’s efficiency and effectiveness. By minimizing distractions and providing essential tools at their fingertips, the platform empowers users to make informed trading decisions with confidence.
Accessibility for All Users
Whether a trader is entering the market for the first time or is a seasoned professional, Soros Trading ensures accessibility through its robust features. The platform offers a variety of educational resources, including articles, tutorials, and webinars, to help traders understand the markets and improve their skills.
This focus on education is evident in the Sorostrading.com Review, highlighting the platform’s commitment to supporting traders at every level. Additionally, the website’s responsive design allows users to access their accounts and trade from various devices, including smartphones and tablets, catering to the modern trader’s need for flexibility and convenience.
Supportive Community
Soros Trading fosters a supportive trading community where users can interact, share strategies, and learn from each other. This collaborative environment enhances the overall trading experience and encourages traders to develop their skills continuously.
The Future of Trading with Soros Trading
As the financial landscape evolves, traders are looking for platforms that not only prioritize compliance and security but also embrace innovation. Soros Trading is at the forefront of this evolution, positioning itself as a leading player in the online trading market. The platform continuously adapts to changing regulations, technological advancements, and user expectations, making it a promising choice for traders seeking a reliable and forward-thinking brokerage.
Commitment to Innovation
Soros Trading recognizes that the trading environment is dynamic, requiring brokers to stay ahead of trends and technology. The platform regularly updates its trading tools, ensuring users have access to cutting-edge technology that enhances their trading experience. Features such as advanced charting tools, algorithmic trading options, and real-time market data help traders make informed decisions swiftly.
Community and Education
Beyond just providing a trading platform, Soros Trading emphasizes the importance of trader education. The brokerage offers a range of educational resources, including webinars, workshops, and articles, designed to empower traders with the knowledge they need to succeed. This commitment to education fosters a community of informed traders who can navigate the markets with confidence.
Conclusion
Soros Trading’s commitment to legal compliance, transparency, and user experience sets it apart in the crowded online trading landscape. By understanding the essential legal documents and frameworks that govern the platform, traders can feel confident in their decision to engage with Soros Trading. This Sorostrading.com Review highlights how the Client Agreement and the Risk Disclosure Document work together to create a secure and reliable trading environment.
With an intuitive interface, accessible resources, and a supportive community, Soros Trading is well-equipped to meet the needs of both new and experienced traders. As the trading landscape continues to evolve, Soros Trading remains dedicated to providing a trustworthy platform where users can pursue their trading ambitions with confidence.
