Playing South Africa in T20I series is a great preparation before the World Cup, says Harmanpreet

IANS | April 17, 2026 6:21 PM

Durban, April 17 (IANS) India captain Harmanpreet Kaur believes the upcoming five-game T20I series against South Africa offers ideal preparation ahead of the 2026 Women’s T20 World Cup. With five matches lined up, the first of which takes place at the Kingsmead Stadium on Friday evening, the focus for India is on fine-tuning their approach and personnel for the T20 World Cup.

West Asia conflict exposes deepening strains, imbalances and vulnerability of dependent economies

R K Raina | April 17, 2026 5:59 PM

New Delhi: The current stand-off between the United States and Iran has moved beyond a conventional strategic contest. It reflects a structural deadlock where both sides are holding positions that cannot be sustained for long. The United States continues to rely on financial restrictions, control over international channels, and pressure through sanctions. Iran has responded with refusal to renegotiate on nuclear conditions and by strengthening its reliance on geographical leverage, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz.