Monthly Archives: November 2025

entertainment

Sudanese Drama ‘Cotton Queen’ Wins Golden Alexander Award at Thessaloniki Film Festival

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Suzannah Mirghani’s Sudanese drama *Cotton Queen* won the top prize Sunday at the Thessaloniki Film Festival, taking home the Golden Alexander for best feature film.

Mirghani’s arresting debut—the first-ever feature film shot by a female Sudanese director—wowed the festival jury. The jury included Match Factory head of sales Thania Dimitrakopoulou, U.S. cinematographer Frederick Elmes (“Blue Velvet,” “Wild at Heart”), and writer-director Elegance Bratton (“The Inspection”), who said *Cotton Queen* “blew us all away.”

“This film sat with all of us judges from beginning to end,” said Bratton. “As we live in a world consumed by genocide and war, it’s important to remember what we’re all fighting for: our families, ourselves, our friends, our communities. This film kept us focused on what matters most.”

*Cotton Queen* follows a young Sudanese woman living in a village on the banks of the Nile River. The granddaughter of the so-called “Cotton Queen,” an elderly woman who’s taken on legendary dimensions due to her resistance against the British and her alleged ability to see the future, Nafisa works in her grandmother’s cotton fields and dreams about the young man she loves.

But the arrival of a wealthy entrepreneur from London upends everything, with her parents, her grandmother, and her community planning Nafisa’s future without her knowledge. The film premiered in the Critics’ Week strand at this year’s Venice Film Festival.

Accepting the Golden Alexander in Thessaloniki, Mirghani dedicated the award to Sudan, which is now in the grips of a devastating civil war, and to her Sudanese cast and crew, who are clinging to survival and “seeking a way out.”

“In this time of war and of genocide, to make a film with actors who are now all displaced from their homes, all in Egypt where we shot the film, seeking refuge to show that you can still work, you can still make a film, you can still make art in this time and be recognized for it, is really the most welcome news at this time,” she said.

Greek filmmaker Aristotelis Maragkos won the Silver Alexander for best director for his sophomore feature *Beachcomber*, which tells the story of a young man chasing his sailor father’s legacy who is forced to confront the fragile truth of who he really is. The film also took home the Artistic Achievement Award for Best Cinematography for DoP Giorgos Karvelas.

Elsewhere in the international competition, the best actor award went to Harry Melling for his depiction of a mild-mannered traffic warden exploring his submissive side in Harry Lighton’s queer romance *Pillion*. Best actress honors went to Sabrina Amali, who plays an Egyptian archaeologist whose past catches up to her in Nancy Biniadaki’s *Maysoon*.

A Special Award for Best Screenplay went to writer Yvonne Görlach for Christina Tournatzès’ *Karla*.

In the festival’s Meet the Neighbors+ competition section, which features debut or sophomore films from the 36 countries of Southeastern Europe, the Mediterranean, and the Middle East, the Golden Alexander for best feature went to *The Last One for the Road*, Francesco Sossai’s boozy dramedy about a pair of aging drinking buddies that premiered in the Cannes Film Festival’s Un Certain Regard section. The film also scooped best actor honors for its two leading men, Pierpaolo Capovilla and Sergio Romano.

The section’s Silver Alexander for best director went to Yanis Koussim for the horror film *Roqia*, which follows a young Algerian man tormented by mysterious nighttime visitors after a car crash leaves him with amnesia. The award for best actress in the Meet the Neighbors+ section went to Manuela Martelli for her portrayal of a Chilean widow in Hana Jušić’s *God Will Not Help*, which also won the award for Best Artistic Achievement.

In the Film Forward competition section showcasing innovative filmmaking, the Golden Alexander went to Mehrnoush Alia’s *1,001 Frames*, while the Silver Alexander went to Manoël Dupont for *Before/After*, whose stars Jérémy Lamblot and Baptiste Leclere also earned a Special Mention from the jury. The award for Best Artistic Achievement went to Kristen Stewart’s *The Chronology of Water*.

Other big winners at Sunday’s award ceremony included *Bearcave*, a queer romance by first-time directors Stergios Dinopoulos and Krysianna Papadakis, which premiered in the Venice Days sidebar of the Venice Film Festival and took home seven awards in Thessaloniki. *Patty Is Such a Girly Name*, by Greek filmmaker Giorgos Georgopoulos, won five awards following its world premiere this week.

The Thessaloniki Film Festival runs from October 30 to November 9.
https://variety.com/2025/film/global/sudanese-drama-cotton-queen-wins-thessaloniki-film-festival-1236573310/

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Mother of missing 9-year-old California girl is arrested. Authorities say it’s not related to her daughter’s disappearance

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**Mother of Missing California Girl Arrested on Unrelated Felony Charge**

The mother of a missing 9-year-old California girl, Melodee Buzzard, was arrested Friday on a felony charge of false imprisonment. However, officials say the arrest is not directly connected to the ongoing search for her daughter.

Investigators looking into Melodee’s disappearance discovered that her mother, Ashlee Buzzard, had recently “prevented a victim from leaving a location against their will,” according to a news release from the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office. Authorities stressed that “this crime is not connected to the search for Melodee,” and declined to share further details so as not to impede the investigation. The identity of the victim in the false imprisonment case has not been released.

The arrest comes about a week after the FBI served search warrants on Buzzard’s home, a storage locker, and the rental car in which Melodee was last seen. The high-profile search for Melodee has drawn national attention. Investigators have shared surveillance images showing the child in apparent disguise—a hoodie pulled over her head and a wig at a car rental agency last month.

According to officials, Ashlee Buzzard swapped wigs throughout the trip, possibly “to avoid recognition during travel.” Over the course of three days, Buzzard and her daughter traveled through Nebraska, Utah, Arizona, Nevada, and Kansas in a rental car, which was observed at times with “a false or switched” license plate.

The rental car returned to the family’s home in Lompoc, California—about 55 miles northwest of Santa Barbara—on October 10, with Ashlee Buzzard driving. Melodee was not seen in the car. The last confirmed sighting of the child was the previous day, captured on video surveillance near the Colorado-Utah state line.

Melodee was reported missing on October 14 by a school administrator concerned about her extended absence—not by a family member. When authorities visited the mother’s home, Melodee was not there and no verifiable explanation for her whereabouts was given. Officials also noted that Ashlee Buzzard has remained uncooperative and has not provided any confirmation regarding Melodee’s location or welfare.

While Ashlee Buzzard’s arrest occurred during the missing persons investigation, the sheriff’s office emphasized, “it is not directly related to Melodee’s disappearance.” Detectives remain focused on locating Melodee and confirming her safety.

Anyone who has seen Melodee or has information about her whereabouts is urged to contact the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office or leave an anonymous tip.

It is not immediately clear whether Ashlee Buzzard has an attorney. She will be booked at Santa Barbara County jail, where bail is set at $100,000, officials said.
https://www.mercurynews.com/2025/11/09/mother-of-missing-9-year-old-melodee-buzzard-is-arrested-authorities-say-its-not-related-to-her-daughters-disappearance/

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$10K reward offered in deadly shooting at Little Village jewelry store caught on camera

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Two Men Fatally Shot During Jewelry Store Robbery in Little Village

CHICAGO (WLS) — Cook County Crime Stoppers are offering a $10,000 cash reward following the fatal shooting of two men during a jewelry store robbery in Little Village.

The incident occurred around 5:49 p.m. on Saturday at a jewelry store located on the 3800-block of 26th Street, according to Chicago police.

An armed offender entered the business and stole property. After exiting the store, the suspect became involved in an altercation with two male victims, ages 63 and 25. The suspect then shot both men multiple times before fleeing southbound on Springfield Avenue in a white SUV, police said.

The victims were transported to Mt. Sinai Hospital in critical condition but were later pronounced dead. Their identities have not yet been released.

In response, Cook County Crime Stoppers announced on Sunday a cash reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to the arrest in this double homicide case.

Exclusive Surveillance Footage Released

A nearby business shared surveillance video exclusively with ABC7 Chicago. The footage shows a man wearing a Blackhawks hoodie and mask approaching the jewelry store around 5:45 p.m., shortly before the robbery and shooting.

Within approximately 30 seconds, the suspect can be seen running out of the store carrying merchandise, with two men chasing after him. The altercation continued in the middle of the street near oncoming traffic, close to the corner of Springfield Avenue.

The offender then pulled out a gun and shot both victims. Police confirmed that no other individuals were injured during the shooting.

Currently, no arrests have been made as Chicago police continue their investigation into the case.

ABC7 Chicago is now streaming 24/7. Click here to watch.

https://abc7chicago.com/post/chicago-shooting-cook-crime-stoppers-offers-cash-reward-deadly-jewelry-store-robbery-26th-street-little-village/18133690/

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Mohammad Shami vs Brett Lee – comparing their stats after 108 ODIs

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Veteran pacer Mohammad Shami’s wait for an international comeback continues as he was not picked in the Indian squad for the upcoming two-match Test series against South Africa. The 35-year-old claimed 15 wickets in the first two matches of the ongoing Ranji Trophy season for Bengal. However, it wasn’t enough to convince the selectors to hand him a recall.

Shami has missed a majority of international cricket following his heroics in the 2023 ODI World Cup held in India. He was recalled for the white-ball series against England at home at the start of the year and even featured in the subsequent Champions Trophy in the UAE. However, he has not been picked for India since the Champions Trophy final against New Zealand in March.

To put his international career in perspective, Shami has featured in 108 ODIs so far. In light of ongoing debates around his possible international return, we compare his stats with those of former Australian speedster Brett Lee, who also played 108 ODIs.

### Mohammad Shami vs Brett Lee: Who has more wickets and a better average after 108 ODIs?

In his 108 ODIs, Mohammad Shami has taken 206 wickets at an average of 24.05 and an economy rate of 5.58. Notably, 42 of these wickets came in 26 matches against Australia at an average of 30.85. He has also claimed 38 wickets in 16 ODIs versus New Zealand with an impressive average of 21.15. Against England, Shami has picked up 27 wickets in 17 matches at an average of 24.77.

On the other hand, Brett Lee had 192 wickets after 108 ODIs at a better average of 22.19 and a more economical rate of 4.68. He took 33 wickets in 19 ODIs against Pakistan at an average of 24.93. Against India, Lee claimed 24 wickets from 13 matches at an excellent average of 19.04. He also picked up 23 wickets each against England and South Africa from 12 and 11 matches respectively.

### Who has more five-wicket hauls after 108 ODIs?

Shami has six five-wicket hauls and 10 four-wicket hauls in his 108 ODIs. His career-best figures of 7-57 came against New Zealand at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai, during the first semifinal of the 2023 World Cup. Additionally, he took 5-51 against Australia in Mohali in September 2023. Among his six five-fers, two came against New Zealand, and one each against Australia, Bangladesh, England, and Sri Lanka.

Conversely, after 108 ODIs, Brett Lee had claimed three five-wicket hauls and seven four-wicket hauls. His best performance was 5-27 against India in Adelaide in January 2000. Lee also recorded 5-30 against England in Melbourne (January 2003) and 5-42 versus New Zealand in Gqeberha during the 2003 World Cup.

### Who has a better record in wins after 108 ODIs?

In the 69 matches Team India won with Shami in the squad, he took 150 wickets at an excellent average of 19.62 and an economy rate of 5.24, including five five-wicket hauls and eight four-wicket hauls. In the 33 ODIs India lost, Shami picked up 47 wickets at a higher average of 37.29 and an economy rate of 6.12, with one five-wicket haul and two four-wicket hauls.

For Brett Lee, after 108 ODIs, Australia had won 78 matches in which he claimed 152 wickets at an average of 20.17 and an economy rate of 4.52, along with three five-fers and six four-fers. In 23 matches Australia lost, he took 33 wickets at an average of 32.42 and an economy rate of 5.29.

### Who has a better record in the World Cup after 108 ODIs?

In 18 ODI World Cup matches, Shami has taken 55 wickets at an outstanding average of 13.52 and an economy rate of 5.13. He boasts four five-wicket hauls and four four-wicket hauls in ICC events. Impressively, 24 of these wickets came in seven matches during the 2023 edition, averaging just 10.70, with three five-fers and one four-fer.

Brett Lee played 10 matches in the ODI World Cup (2003), picking up 22 wickets at an average of 17.90 and an economy rate of 4.73. He recorded one five-wicket haul in the tournament, with figures of 5-42 against New Zealand in Gqeberha. Lee also picked up a hat-trick against Kenya in Durban during the same World Cup.

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In summary, both Mohammad Shami and Brett Lee have had illustrious ODI careers characterized by high wicket tallies and match-winning performances. While Lee boasts a slightly better average and economy rate overall, Shami’s recent performances, especially in the 2023 World Cup, underscore his potential value to the Indian team should he make a return to the international fold.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/cricket/mohammad-shami-vs-brett-lee-comparing-stats-108-odis

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Aave Gains 7.9% as DeFi Activity Strengthens, BlockDAG Presale Surpasses $435M

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**November’s Crypto Landscape: Three Projects Capturing Market Sentiment**

In November’s dynamic crypto market, three projects stand out, reflecting the shifting sentiment among investors: Aave, Hyperliquid, and BlockDAG. Each represents a unique narrative in decentralized finance (DeFi), showcasing varying degrees of growth, volatility, and market trust.

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### Aave Rises 7.9%: What’s Behind the Surge?

Aave (AAVE) recorded a notable 7.86% increase, climbing to approximately $224.87, marking one of its strongest daily performances in weeks. This price surge comes despite AAVE trading below key moving averages, indicating potential resistance levels ahead.

Analysts attribute this upward movement to Aave’s expanding institutional footprint through its Horizon real-world assets division, which recently surpassed $450 million in total value locked (TVL). This milestone underscores that Aave’s growth is increasingly backed by genuine utility rather than speculative hype.

For investors exploring opportunities in DeFi, Aave’s latest momentum highlights its staying power and continued relevance within the lending ecosystem. However, short-term technical indicators suggest a potential consolidation phase could follow. Monitoring liquidity inflows, TVL metrics, and protocol upgrades will be essential to determine if this momentum can be sustained.

In a volatile DeFi market, Aave distinguishes itself as a project combining resilience with real-world progress.

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### Hyperliquid Prepares for a Surge: Is This the Next Big DeFi Breakout?

Hyperliquid (HYPE) is drawing significant trader attention as its price consolidates near the $44 level, suggesting the possibility of a major move. After retreating from a recent high of about $50.24, HYPE has reached a critical juncture likely to dictate its next direction.

If HYPE manages to reclaim the $46-$47 range, analysts believe it may retest resistance levels between $49 and $55, potentially targeting the $60 zone. Conversely, a dip below $42-$43 could trigger a decline toward $38, making this an important period to watch.

For investors, HYPE’s price action reflects the broader uncertainty in DeFi—marked by high risk but equally high potential rewards. Key indicators to monitor include on-chain activity, open interest, and volume spikes, which will help reveal whether accumulation or profit-taking is dominating the market.

While volatility remains a factor, an imminent breakout could solidify HYPE’s standing as a leading DeFi contender.

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### $435M and Climbing: Why BlockDAG Could Be 2026’s First $1 Crypto

BlockDAG’s explosive growth is capturing widespread attention, with its presale total now exceeding $435 million—a milestone indicative of strong market trust and traction. Currently priced at $0.005 in Batch 32, BDAG is gaining momentum as each presale batch sells out faster than the previous one.

The ecosystem boasts over 312,000 holders and 3.5 million miners connected through the X1 app, forming one of the largest and most active presale communities to date. This wave of adoption is fueled by solid fundamentals rather than mere speculation.

BlockDAG’s Layer-1 DAG architecture, 1,400 TPS Awakening Testnet, and eco-efficient mining tools demonstrate that high performance and accessibility can coexist. Under the leadership of CEO Antony Turner, the project has entered what is dubbed the “Value Era,” focusing on scarcity, transparency, and sustainable growth.

With a confirmed launch price of $0.05 and only 4.3 billion coins remaining before the presale closes on February 10, 2026, scarcity is now a critical driver of demand. Analysts predict that BlockDAG could be the top crypto investment of 2026, with realistic potential to reach the $1 mark post-launch.

For those watching the market’s next major wave, BlockDAG represents not just an opportunity but an intersection of timing, technology, and trust.

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### BlockDAG Leads 2026’s DeFi Power Shift

Amid the evolving crypto landscape, Aave and Hyperliquid illustrate strong narratives of institutional confidence and technical volatility, respectively. However, BlockDAG’s story is one of permanence and transformation.

Aave’s 7.9% rally reinforces its status as a DeFi stalwart, while Hyperliquid’s positioning reflects the energy of an emerging contender. Meanwhile, BlockDAG’s Value Era, spearheaded by CEO Antony Turner, transcends typical presale hype, evolving into a global movement.

As the February 2026 presale deadline approaches, the message is clear: this is not merely a countdown, but a fundamental shift in market leadership.

For investors analyzing AAVE’s price surge, HYPE’s market movement, and the drivers of real value, BlockDAG stands at the convergence of technology and timing, representing the most strategic move in 2026.

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### Presale Information:

– **Website:** [Insert Website URL]
– **Telegram:** [Insert Telegram Link]
– **Discord:** [Insert Discord Link]

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### Read More:

– *Digitap vs. BlockDAG: A Look at Two Crypto Presales in 2025* [Insert link]

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### Disclaimer:

Please be advised that all information, including ratings, advice, and reviews, is for educational purposes only. Crypto investing carries high risks, and CryptoNinjas is not responsible for any losses incurred. Always conduct your own research and carefully determine your risk tolerance before making any trading decisions.

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*Stay informed and trade wisely.*
https://www.cryptoninjas.net/news/aave-gains-7-9-as-defi-activity-strengthens-blockdag-presale-surpasses-435m/

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7 Colts players inactive for Week 10 game vs. Falcons

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The Indianapolis Colts have announced their seven inactive players for Sunday’s Week 10 matchup against the Atlanta Falcons.

Under NFL rules, teams are allowed to have 48 active players on game days. With two practice squad elevations this week, along with the standard 53-man roster, the Colts must declare seven players inactive for the game.

Here is the list of Colts players who will be inactive for Week 10 against the Falcons:

– DE Samson Ebukam
– RB DJ Giddens
– WR Anthony Gould
– DE Tyquan Lewis
– S Reuben Lowery
– TE Will Mallory
– OT Luke Tenuta

Stay tuned for updates as we receive more information leading up to the game.
https://coltswire.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/colts/2025/11/09/colts-roster-7-players-inactive-falcons-week-10/87181611007/

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IPL 2026 Auction: Jadeja-Samson trade talk, Dhoni’s future – all the buzz ahead of retentions

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The IPL 2026 auction is likely to take place around mid-December (December 13 to December 15), according to various media reports. While the last two auctions were held outside India—in Dubai and Jeddah respectively—this year’s event might be hosted within the country. Meanwhile, November 15 has been set as the deadline for all 10 franchises to confirm their player retentions ahead of the auction.

### Auction Format and Retention Rules

The upcoming IPL auction will be a mini-auction. Teams are allowed to retain as many players as they want, as there is no cap on retentions. However, the squad size cannot exceed 25 players. Although there has been no official announcement regarding the IPL 2026 auction, there has been plenty of buzz surrounding possible trades and retentions.

Ahead of the November 15 retention deadline, here is a glimpse of some of the key discussions and rumors building up to the IPL 2026 auction.

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### CSK, RR in Talks Over Possible Ravindra Jadeja-Sanju Samson Trade Deal

Rajasthan Royals (RR) skipper Sanju Samson has been a major talking point in IPL circles over the past few months. Multiple reports suggest that Samson wants to move on from RR.

According to a recent report from Cricbuzz, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and RR are exploring the possibility of a trade involving Ravindra Jadeja and Sanju Samson. Both players are valued at ₹18 crore, making a straight swap feasible. However, RR reportedly want not just Jadeja but also rising South African star Dewald Brevis as part of the deal. CSK is unlikely to agree to this demand.

Samson had an injury-hit IPL 2025 season for RR. In nine innings, he scored 285 runs at an average of 35.62 and a strike rate of 140.39, including just one 50-plus score.

As for Jadeja, he played 14 innings for CSK, scoring 301 runs at a strike rate of 135.58 and taking 10 wickets with an economy rate of 8.56. Brevis appeared in six innings for CSK, scoring 225 runs at an impressive strike rate of 180.

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### MS Dhoni Likely to Play IPL 2026

In exciting news for MS Dhoni fans, the former Team India and CSK legend is likely to feature in IPL 2026.

Speaking to his grandson Noah in *Provoke Lifestyle* magazine, CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan was asked about Dhoni’s IPL future. He responded, “No, he is not retiring for this IPL.” When asked if he knew anything about Dhoni’s retirement plans, Viswanathan added, “I’ll check with him and let you know.”

At a recent event, Dhoni himself shared his thoughts about his cricketing future. In his usual enigmatic style, he told Harsha Bhogle:
“Well, it depends. Again, I would say the same thing—I have four or five months to decide. You know, there’s no hurry to decide what is to be done. I’m not saying I’m done; I’m not saying I’m coming back at the same time.”

After Ruturaj Gaikwad was ruled out early in the IPL 2025 season, Dhoni took over the captaincy of CSK. Despite his efforts, the franchise finished last, managing just four wins against 10 losses.

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### SRH Pondering Releasing Heinrich Klaasen?

Heinrich Klaasen has been one of Sunrisers Hyderabad’s (SRH) key players over the last two to three seasons. However, a recent report in the *Times of India* suggested that SRH might consider releasing Klaasen to free up ₹23 crore in their budget.

Former India opener Aakash Chopra, however, dismissed these reports as rumors. Speaking on his YouTube channel, he said such a move was unlikely.

Klaasen has represented SRH in 42 matches between 2023 and 2025, amassing 1,414 runs at an average of 44.18 and an outstanding strike rate of 173.49. His stats include two centuries and seven half-centuries.

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### Buzz Around KL Rahul and Washington Sundar Trades Die Down

Until recently, there were rumors suggesting possible trades involving Delhi Capitals (DC) star KL Rahul and Gujarat Titans (GT) all-rounder Washington Sundar ahead of the IPL 2026 auction. Sundar reportedly piqued interest from CSK following Ravichandran Ashwin’s retirement, while Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) were said to have expressed interest in KL Rahul.

However, according to a recent Cricbuzz report, neither trade is likely to take place. The report claims that GT does not want to part ways with Sundar, having invested heavily in him. Delhi Capitals, on their part, were reportedly unsatisfied with the options available in exchange for Rahul.

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With the November 15 retention deadline fast approaching, the IPL 2026 auction promises to be an intriguing event for players, franchises, and fans alike. Stay tuned for more updates as the auction draws closer.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/cricket/ipl-2026-auction-jadeja-samson-trade-talk-dhoni-s-future-buzz-ahead-retentions

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nLIGHT: I Am Not Enlightened Here

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**Analyst’s Disclosure:**
I/we have no stock, option, or similar derivative position in any of the companies mentioned, and no plans to initiate any such positions within the next 72 hours. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it (other than from Seeking Alpha). I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article.

**Seeking Alpha’s Disclosure:**
Past performance is no guarantee of future results. No recommendation or advice is being given as to whether any investment is suitable for a particular investor. Any views or opinions expressed above may not reflect those of Seeking Alpha as a whole. Seeking Alpha is not a licensed securities dealer, broker, US investment adviser, or investment bank.

Our analysts are third-party authors who include both professional investors and individual investors, who may not be licensed or certified by any institute or regulatory body.
https://seekingalpha.com/article/4841026-nlight-i-am-not-enlightened-here?source=feed_all_articles