Category Archives: general

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

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.

### 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.

### 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.

### 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.

### 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.

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

nLIGHT: I Am Not Enlightened Here

**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

‘Freakier Friday’ Arrives On Disney+ This Week

**Freakier Friday, Jamie Lee Curtis and Lindsay Lohan’s Hit Sequel, Now Streaming on Disney+**

*Freakier Friday*, the much-anticipated sequel to the 2003 comedy hit *Freaky Friday* starring Jamie Lee Curtis and Lindsay Lohan, is now available on streaming video on demand via Disney+. Directed by Nisha Ganatra, the film originally opened in theaters on August 7.

### Plot Summary

According to the official movie synopsis, *Freakier Friday* “picks up years after Tess (Curtis) and Anna Coleman (Lohan) endured an identity crisis.” Anna now has a daughter of her own as well as a soon-to-be stepdaughter. As the two families merge, Tess and Anna face a new set of challenges — and “discover that lightning might indeed strike twice.”

The film is rated PG and features a talented supporting cast including Mark Harmon, Chad Michael Murray, Christina Vidal Mitchell, Haley Hudson, Lucille Soong, Stephen Tobolowsky, Rosalind Chao, Julia Butters, Sophia Hammons, Manny Jacinto, and Maitreyi Ramakrishnan.

### Streaming Details

Disney+ recently announced that *Freakier Friday* will begin streaming on the platform starting Wednesday, November 12.

For viewers interested in subscribing, Disney+ offers two plans:
– The ad-supported Disney+ Basic plan costs $11.99 per month.
– The ad-free Disney+ Premium plan costs $18.99 per month or $189.99 per year.

### Behind the Scenes: The Sequel’s Inspiration

During a July interview with *People* magazine, Jamie Lee Curtis revealed how the idea for *Freakier Friday* originated. Curtis explained that in 2022, while on a press tour for *Halloween Ends* — the final film in the *Halloween* franchise — she was frequently asked by fans and interviewers whether there would be a *Freaky Friday* sequel.

“Everybody I’ve ever spoken to has asked, ‘Will there be a *Freaky Friday* sequel?’” Curtis recalled. “When I went all around the world for *Halloween Ends* in 2022, every stop, they asked.”

She continued, “And the answer was ‘Lindsay has to be old enough to have had a teenager.’ So then obviously Lindsay had this beautiful baby. She came and visited me, brought the baby. At this moment we started really seriously talking about it.”

### Box Office Success

*Freakier Friday* was a hit in theaters, grossing $94.1 million domestically and nearly $59 million internationally, for a worldwide box office total of approximately $153.1 million. The film had a production budget of $42 million before prints and advertising costs, according to *The Numbers*.

### Final Note

Rated PG, *Freakier Friday* is now available for streaming on Disney+ as of Wednesday, November 12. Fans of the original and new viewers alike can enjoy this fresh take on the beloved classic.

For more updates on movies and streaming releases, stay tuned.
https://bitcoinethereumnews.com/finance/freakier-friday-arrives-on-disney-this-week/

Will Shane Wright Score a Goal vs. the Dallas Stars on November 9?

Will Shane Wright Score for the Seattle Kraken vs. Dallas Stars on Sunday?

The Seattle Kraken face off against the Dallas Stars on Sunday, November 9, 2025, at 7:00 PM ET. Fans and bettors alike are wondering: will Shane Wright find the back of the net in this matchup? Here’s a detailed look at Wright’s recent form, stats, and odds to help you make an informed wager.

### Shane Wright Anytime Goal Odds vs. Dallas Stars

– **Anytime Goal Odds:** +400
(Bet $10 to win $40 if Wright scores a goal)

### Shane Wright’s 2025-26 Season Stats and Trends

Through 14 games this season, Shane Wright has accumulated eight points. However, he has yet to surpass a set points prop line in any contest, falling short in all opportunities so far.

– **Goals Scored:** 4 goals in 14 games
– **Multi-Point Games:** 1 multi-point effort
– **Shots Attempted:** 22 shots total
– **Shooting Percentage:** 18.2% conversion rate (4 goals from 22 shots)
– **Power Play:** 6 shots with 1 goal while on the power play

Notably, Wright has scored in four separate games this season, but each time it has been only one goal. This game against the Stars marks his first matchup of the season versus Dallas.

### Recent Performance Snapshot

| Date | Opponent | Location | Result | Points | Goals | Time on Ice |
|————|————|———-|————-|——–|——-|————-|
| 11/8/2025 | Blues | Away | W 4-3 OT | 1 | 1 | 12:41 |
| 11/5/2025 | Sharks | Home | L 6-1 | 1 | 0 | 16:39 |
| 11/3/2025 | Blackhawks | Home | W 3-1 | 0 | 0 | 12:58 |
| 11/1/2025 | Rangers | Home | L 3-2 OT | 0 | 0 | 15:32 |
| 10/28/2025 | Canadiens | Home | L 4-3 OT | 1 | 1 | 16:41 |
| 10/25/2025 | Oilers | Home | W 3-2 | 0 | 0 | 14:32 |
| 10/23/2025 | Jets | Away | W 3-0 | 1 | 0 | 13:46 |
| 10/21/2025 | Capitals | Away | L 4-1 | 0 | 0 | 14:07 |
| 10/20/2025 | Flyers | Away | L 5-2 | 0 | 0 | 14:50 |
| 10/18/2025 | Maple Leafs| Away | W 4-3 OT | 2 | 1 | 16:04 |

### Game Info: Seattle Kraken vs. Dallas Stars

– **Game Day:** Sunday, November 9, 2025
– **Game Time:** 7:00 PM ET
– **TV:** ESPN+
– **Streaming:** Watch the NHL on Fubo!

Based on Wright’s recent performances and goal-scoring frequency, backing him to score anytime at +400 could be a rewarding choice if you believe he will continue his trend against Dallas in his first meeting this season.
https://www.bleachernation.com/picks/2025/11/09/will-shane-wright-score-a-goal-vs-the-dallas-stars-on-november-9/

Milwaukee Bucks Injury Update: Major Giannis Antetokounmpo Concern Resurfaces With 3 Players Out vs. Rockets (Nov. 9)

Giannis Antetokounmpo has resurfaced on the Milwaukee Bucks’ injury report ahead of their highly anticipated matchup against the Houston Rockets on Sunday.

This development adds an element of uncertainty as the Bucks prepare for what promises to be a blockbuster battle. Fans and analysts alike will be closely monitoring his status leading up to the game.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/basketball/news-milwaukee-bucks-injury-update-major-giannis-antetokounmpo-concern-resurfaces-with-3-players-out-vs-rockets-nov-9

Letter: Democratic socialism often misunderstood

Wow, I hardly recognized myself in the hyper-alarmist diatribe Kala’e Kong lobbed at Zohran Mamdani (“Mamdani represents existential threat,” Star-Advertiser, Raise Your Hand, Nov. 2).

When I lived, studied and worked in New York City, I trekked downtown monthly to attend DSA (Democratic Socialists of America) gatherings. The most “radical” discussions we had involved disagreements about the latest art house films we had seen. All grass-roots activists, we campaigned for planting more trees in heat-belts of the boroughs and testified and marched for living wages for municipal workers.

I have the feeling Mr. Kong is unaware of the principles that drive DSA. If he finds social justice, workers’ rights, diversity, affordable housing and mutual respect to be “communism,” I recommend he Google the difference.

The real existential threats to our people come from the degradation of public morality and the enrichment of the 1%.

Nancie Caraway
Manoa

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https://www.staradvertiser.com/2025/11/09/editorial/letters/letter-democratic-socialism-often-misunderstood/

Updated SEC football conference standings entering Week 12

Another exciting weekend of SEC football action has officially passed, bringing us closer to the highly anticipated conference championship game in Atlanta. With just a few weeks remaining until the December showdown, the SEC still needs to determine which two teams will earn the coveted trip to compete for the conference title.

Following Week 11, the race for the SEC championship became a bit clearer, as two teams remain tied at the top of the standings. Notably, Alabama secured a crucial 20-9 victory over LSU, keeping their title hopes alive. But are there any other teams within striking distance as we head into Week 12?

Here is a look at the updated SEC football conference standings entering Week 12 of the 2025 season:

**Updated SEC Football Conference Standings Entering Week 12:**

1. **Tied – Texas A&M, Alabama (6-0)**
3. **Georgia (6-1)**
4. **Ole Miss (5-1)**
5. **Texas (4-1)**
6. **Vanderbilt (4-2)**
7. **Oklahoma (3-2)**
8. **Tennessee (3-3)**
9. **Missouri (2-3)**
10. **Tied – LSU, Florida (2-4)**
12. **Kentucky (2-5)**
13. **Mississippi State (1-5)**
14. **Tied – Auburn, South Carolina (1-6)**
16. **Arkansas (0-5)**

As the season moves forward, all eyes will be on these teams to see who can rise to the top and secure a spot in the SEC Championship game. Stay tuned for more updates as Week 12 approaches!
https://rolltidewire.usatoday.com/story/sports/college/crimson-tide/football/2025/11/09/sec-football-conference-standings-week-12/87171552007/

Here’s a list of popular coffee shops that have filed for bankruptcy amid rising prices

Coffee is a growing American pastime. According to the National Coffee Association, a trade group, two-thirds of American adults—66%—drink coffee daily. That’s up 7% from 2020. As coffee consumption rises, coffee shops across the country are experiencing increased pressure due to rising costs and heightened competition.

Even Starbucks, the nation’s largest coffee chain, has felt the strain. In September, the Seattle-based coffee giant announced plans to lay off about 900 non-retail workers and close about 1% of its North American stores amid declining same-store sales.

Last week, a Florida coffee chain known for its unusual flavors and Instagram-ready “coffee flights” filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in federal court. The Blend Coffee and Cocktails, which operates eight locations in Florida, is seeking to continue operating while restructuring its debts under court supervision. The Blend’s bankruptcy lawyer didn’t return requests for comment, but court documents show a wide range of creditors, including landlords, vendors, and tax collectors.

Business bankruptcies have been rising in the US since 2021, driven by stricter lending conditions and higher costs. Data from Epiq AACER revealed a 7% increase in business bankruptcies last month compared to the previous year, including a 35% jump in small business bankruptcies.

Coffee shops are under additional pressure from the rising cost of coffee beans. The average price of ground coffee doubled in September, reaching over $9 a pound—up from 2020 levels, according to data from the St. Louis Federal Reserve. This increase is being driven by global supply constraints, including droughts in Brazil, which produces about 40% of the world’s coffee. US tariffs introduced during President Donald Trump’s administration have also restricted coffee supplies. Labor costs are increasing as well, according to the National Restaurant Association.

### Coffee Shops and Small Chains That Have Filed for Bankruptcy Protection Since 2024

Despite financial challenges, all the following coffee shops and chains remain in business after filing for bankruptcy protection:

**The Blend Coffee and Cocktails**
The Blend Coffee and Cocktails operates eight locations in Florida. The company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in November 2024.

**Cuppa Austin Coffee Shop**
Cuppa Austin Coffee Shop is a single-location café based in Austin, Texas. Its parent company filed for Chapter 11 protection in October 2024.

**Red Bay Coffee**
Red Bay Coffee runs seven locations in the Bay Area. The company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in August 2024.

**Switchback Coffee Roasters**
With two locations in Colorado, Switchback Coffee Roasters filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in August 2024.

**Ink! Coffee**
Ink! Coffee operates four locations in Colorado and filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in June 2024.

As coffee prices and operational costs continue to rise, more coffee shops may find themselves facing difficult decisions. For now, these iconic local chains remain open as they work toward restructuring and recovery.
https://www.businessinsider.com/coffee-shops-filed-for-bankruptcy-amid-rising-prices-2025-11