Category Archives: sports

sports

Lakers’ Austin Reaves won’t play vs. Hawks due to groin injury

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LeBron James is currently dealing with sciatica and has yet to suit up this season. Meanwhile, Luka Doncic has already missed four games due to finger and lower-body injuries. Adding to the Lakers’ woes, Austin Reaves is being ruled out for the third consecutive contest because of a right groin strain, according to NBA correspondent Marc Stein.

Despite these setbacks, the Los Angeles Lakers (7-2) are surging through adversity and climbing toward the top of the Western Conference standings. While it’s still early in the season for fans to get overly excited, there was a time when these key absences would have severely impacted the team’s performance.

Lakers head coach JJ Redick has done an excellent job laying down a solid foundation that his players can rely on when challenges arise. Even though a skilled scorer and impactful playmaker like Austin Reaves will be out of action against the Atlanta Hawks (4-4) on Saturday, there is reason to believe the Lakers can still thrive.

The Hawks have their own injury concerns, as All-Star point guard Trae Young is recovering from a sprained MCL. Redick can also depend on Doncic to step up on offense if necessary. However, a healthy Austin Reaves remains integral to the Lakers’ championship hopes.

Reaves, 27, is currently averaging 31.1 points on 48.9% shooting, along with 9.3 assists, 5.1 rebounds, and 1.4 steals per game. Beyond these impressive numbers, he has embraced his increased workload during LeBron James’ absence. If Reaves can maintain this outstanding form throughout the season, the undrafted native of Newark, Arkansas, is poised to sign a significant contract next summer—with a $14.8 million player option at the end of this season.

While Reaves is undoubtedly eager to return to the court, he will trust teammates like Luka Doncic, Deandre Ayton, Rui Hachimura, and the rest of the squad to secure a win in Atlanta.

Tip-off against the Hawks is scheduled for Saturday at approximately 8 p.m. ET.
https://clutchpoints.com/nba/los-angeles-lakers/lakers-news-austin-reaves-wont-play-vs-hawks-groin-injury

cricket, india, sports

“No such verdict has been passed” – Former India opener’s big claim after Mohammad Shami is snubbed for IND vs SA 2025 Tests

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Former India opener Aakash Chopra has dismissed social media claims suggesting that Mohammad Shami’s international career might be over after he was not included in the Indian squad for the home Test series against South Africa. Chopra emphasized that the experienced Bengal fast bowler can definitely make a comeback if he continues his wicket-taking form in domestic cricket.

Shami has missed a significant portion of international cricket due to injury and fitness issues following his impressive performances in the 2023 ODI World Cup held in India. The 35-year-old last represented India in the 2025 Champions Trophy final in Dubai earlier this year. Prior to that, he was part of the T20I squad against England at home. However, Shami has not played Test cricket since the 2023 World Test Championship (WTC) final at The Oval.

Despite picking up 15 wickets in three matches during the ongoing Ranji Trophy season for Bengal, Shami was overlooked for the two-match Test series against South Africa.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Aakash Chopra urged fans and critics not to be disheartened and insisted that Shami will get opportunities again as long as he maintains his performance at the domestic level.

“I won’t say that it’s curtains. Many on social media are claiming that you won’t see Shami playing for India again. I don’t think that’s the case. No such verdict has been passed by the jury. He can get a chance again provided he keeps picking up wickets and lasts an entire season,” Chopra said.

Chopra further added, “There are a lot of vacant slots for premier fast bowlers. There are injuries and workload management as well. There are lots of matches being played across formats, so I don’t think that will be an issue. Don’t worry about it. Shami’s name will come.”

Mohammad Shami has so far featured in 64 Test matches, claiming 229 wickets at an average of 27.71, including six five-wicket hauls. In addition, he has taken over 200 wickets in ODIs and 27 scalps in T20Is.

### Akash Deep Preferred Over Mohammad Shami for India vs South Africa 2025 Tests

From the team that recently faced the West Indies, India made only two changes to the 15-man squad for the upcoming Test series against South Africa. A fit-again Rishabh Pant has returned in place of N Jagadeesan, while Prasidh Krishna was replaced by Akash Deep.

Jasprit Bumrah will lead the bowling attack, supported once again by Mohammed Siraj. Siraj was the leading wicket-taker during the demanding five-match Test series in England, claiming 23 wickets at an average of 32.43. Bumrah played three Tests in that series and took 14 wickets at an average of 26, while Akash Deep impressed with 10 wickets in the Birmingham Test.

The selectors’ preference for Akash Deep over Shami in the current Test squad highlights the competitive nature of fast bowling slots in the Indian team, but as Aakash Chopra noted, Shami’s experience and skills mean he remains very much in contention, provided he continues strong domestic performances.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/cricket/news-aakash-chopra-big-claim-mohammad-shami-snubbed-ind-vs-sa-2025-tests

entertainment, film, sports

Varun Dhawan’s fierce first look from Border 2 unveiled, set to release on January 23, 2026

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After the overwhelming response to the first poster of *Border 2* featuring Sunny Deol, the makers T-Series and JP Films have now revealed the highly anticipated first look of Varun Dhawan, ushering in a new generation of courage for India’s biggest patriotic film.

### Varun Dhawan’s Fierce First Look from Border 2 Unveiled

Set to release on January 23, 2026, the poster features Varun Dhawan in a powerful and intense depiction of an Indian soldier on the battlefield. Captured mid-action with a gun in hand, his look symbolizes the courage and spirit of the nation’s heroes. Dressed in full army uniform with a fierce expression, Varun’s appearance embodies the strength and emotion at the heart of *Border 2*, showcasing the actor in a striking new avatar.

This latest reveal adds a powerful new chapter to the film’s emotional legacy—one built on courage, brotherhood, and sacrifice that defined a generation and now aims to inspire the next.

With Varun Dhawan’s impactful first look, *Border 2* sets the tone for what promises to be one of the most anticipated and stirring cinematic experiences of 2026.

### Star-Studded Cast and Veteran Production Team

Directed by Anurag Singh, *Border 2* unites a stellar ensemble cast featuring Sunny Deol, Varun Dhawan, Diljit Dosanjh, Ahan Shetty, Medha Rana, Mona Singh, and Sonam Bajwa. Produced by Bhushan Kumar, JP Dutta, and Nidhi Dutta, the film is slated for release on January 23, 2026—perfectly timed to honor the Republic Day weekend with a story of bravery and patriotism.

Presented by Gulshan Kumar & T-Series, in association with J. P. Dutta’s J. P. Films, the movie is backed by a stellar production team including Bhushan Kumar, Krishan Kumar, J. P. Dutta, and Nidhi Dutta. Under the direction of Anurag Singh, *Border 2* carries forward the legacy of honoring the heroism and unyielding spirit of Indian soldiers.

### What to Expect

Promising an unforgettable cinematic experience filled with patriotism, courage, and sacrifice, *Border 2* is all set to storm into cinemas on January 23, 2026.

—

**Also Read:**
– Varun Dhawan brings back the ’90s vibes!
– Audio teaser of *Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai* title track out now

**More Pages:**
– Border 2 Box Office Collection
– Bollywood News Live Updates
https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/bollywood/varun-dhawans-fierce-first-look-border-2-unveiled-set-release-january-23-2026/

culture, economy, entertainment, politics, sports

Mark Henry reveals he used to exchange Christmas cards with a surprising legend

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Mark Henry has been a prominent figure in the wrestling industry for a very long time. Recently, he revealed an interesting piece of his past—that he used to exchange Christmas cards with a surprising legend.

Before Mark Henry became known as the “Hall of Pain” and went on a dominant rampage in WWE, he was recognized for his comedic talents. He participated in many funny and memorable skits alongside several stars, including the legendary Mae Young. These moments not only showcased Henry’s personality but also helped prepare him for his eventual role as a main event player.

During this comedic phase of his career, Henry also appeared in a few entertaining segments with Paul Reubens, the actor famously known for portraying the iconic character Pee Wee Herman. Recently, the WWE Hall of Famer took to social media to share that he and Reubens used to exchange Christmas cards, until Paul Reubens became too ill to continue sending them back.

Henry tweeted,
“I wasn’t always just Hall of Pain. I could do comedy with the best of them and Pee Wee Herman was very cool. We would send Christmas cards until he got too sick to send them back!”

—

### Mark Henry Feels Disrespected by AEW

After leaving WWE, Mark Henry joined All Elite Wrestling (AEW), where he embraced multiple roles such as coach, talent scout, mentor, commentator, and more. He remained with Tony Khan’s promotion until last year and served as a strong influence on many of the company’s wrestlers.

One notable example is Powerhouse Hobbs, who currently uses a version of Henry’s signature finisher, the World’s Strongest Slam—though AEW has renamed the move to the “Most Dangerous Slam.”

Speaking on *Busted Open Radio*, the WWE legend expressed his displeasure over AEW’s decision to rename his finisher. He said he felt disrespected by the move, making his feelings crystal clear:

> “They called it the Most Dangerous Slam. They don’t call it the World’s Strongest Slam. They’re like, ‘F*** Mark Henry.’ F*** you, how about that? That’s to whose decision that is [to rename the slam]. You cannot disrespect me and expect me to kiss your a** about it. I’m not gonna do it. I’d rather be fired or kicked off the air before I let somebody feel like they all got power over me.”

—

It remains to be seen what the future holds for the “World’s Strongest Man.” For now, Mark Henry continues to be a respected and influential figure in the world of professional wrestling.

[H/T Wrestling Inc.]
https://www.sportskeeda.com/wwe/news-mark-henry-reveals-used-exchange-christmas-cards-surprising-legend

culture, economy, entertainment, media, sports

Bouchard scores in OT to give Oilers 3-2 win against Blackhawks

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EDMONTON, Alberta (AP) — Evan Bouchard scored 2:43 into overtime to lift the Edmonton Oilers to a 3-2 victory over the Chicago Blackhawks on Saturday night.

Leon Draisaitl contributed a goal and an assist, while Jack Roslovic also found the back of the net. Connor McDavid recorded three assists for the Oilers, who have now won two of their last three games. Goaltender Stuart Skinner made 27 saves in the win.

For the Blackhawks, Tyler Bertuzzi and Andre Burakovsky scored in the loss, which marked Chicago’s second straight defeat and their third in the last four games. Spencer Knight stopped 27 shots in the net.

In overtime, Bouchard capitalized on his own rebound to secure the win for Edmonton.

The Oilers took a 2-1 lead on their second power-play goal of the game with 2:43 remaining in the second period. McDavid delivered a precise pass to Roslovic, who scored his second goal of the season.

Burakovsky evened the score for Chicago at 3:19 of the third period, forcing the game into overtime.

In a milestone for Edmonton, Ryan Nugent-Hopkins played in his 972nd career game with the Oilers, passing Ryan Smyth for the second-most games played in franchise history. Nugent-Hopkins has recorded 13 points in 13 games this season.

Draisaitl’s power-play goal just 54 seconds into the second period extended his points streak against Chicago to 19 games, dating back to October 28, 2018. This is the longest active streak by any NHL player against a single team. During this stretch, Draisaitl has accumulated 15 goals and 22 assists against the Blackhawks.

Additionally, Draisaitl is enjoying an eight-game overall points streak, with six goals and six assists during that span.

**Up Next:**
– Blackhawks: Visit the Seattle Kraken on Monday.
– Oilers: Visit the St. Louis Blues on Monday.

___
AP NHL
https://mymotherlode.com/sports/hockey-game-stories/10134212/bouchard-scores-in-ot-to-give-oilers-3-2-win-against-blackhawks.html

business, economy, government, international, sports

Achilles International helps athletes with disabilities compete in New York City Marathon

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On Sunday, more than 50,000 people from all over the world will lace up for the New York City Marathon. From amateurs to seasoned marathoners, these athletes will test their minds and bodies over 26.2 miles.

Emily Glasser, president and CEO of Achilles International, and Francesco Magisano, director for the Achilles New York City Metro Region, join “The Daily Report” to discuss breaking down barriers for athletes with disabilities.
https://www.cbsnews.com/video/achilles-international-helps-athletes-disabilities-compete-nyc-marathon/

economy, politics, sports

Napoli vs Como Prediction and Betting Tips | November 1st 2025

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**Napoli vs Como Preview: Serie A Showdown at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona**

Napoli will invite Como to the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona this Saturday for a crucial Serie A clash. The defending champions currently sit atop the league table with 21 points, level with second-placed Roma. Meanwhile, the visitors have also enjoyed a promising start to their campaign and are positioned fifth with 16 points.

**Recent Form**

The hosts continued their winning streak on Tuesday, securing a 1-0 away victory against Lecce. André-Frank Zambo Anguissa struck the only goal in the 69th minute, following a missed penalty by Francesco Camarda in the 56th minute. Napoli have now won two games in a row and have been formidable at home, maintaining a 100% winning record so far this season.

Como, also known as the Lariani, have suffered just one defeat across all competitions this term. They extended their unbeaten run to eight games last week after a commanding 3-1 home win over Verona. Anastasios Douvikas opened the scoring in the ninth minute, with Stefan Posch and Mërgim Vojvoda adding second-half goals.

**Napoli vs Como: Head-to-Head and Key Stats**

The two clubs have met 34 times across all competitions. Napoli dominates the head-to-head record with 21 wins, while Como has won six, and seven matches ended in draws. After an 11-year gap, they met again in Serie A last season, with each team claiming a home victory.

This season, Como have managed just one win in four away games and have failed to score twice on their travels. Napoli, in contrast, boast a perfect home record with five wins from five games. Interestingly, the last seven encounters between the two have produced decisive results, with Como winning four times as the visitors.

Defensively, Como have been impressive, holding the second-best defensive record in Serie A by conceding only six goals.

**Team News**

Napoli will be without Kevin De Bruyne, Alex Meret, and Romelu Lukaku due to injuries. Stanislav Lobotka, Noa Lang, and Amir Rrahmani are all doubtful and require late fitness assessments before the match.

Como face their own injury concerns, with Alberto Dossena and Sergi Roberto sidelined. Manager Cesc Fàbregas will hope the rest of his squad is fit for this crucial encounter.

**Match Prediction**

Napoli’s recent performances show a potent attack coupled with solid defense, having scored four goals and conceded just one in their last two games. Their flawless home record and goal-scoring form — netting at least twice in the last four home games — make them strong favorites.

Como have been impressive defensively, with two clean sheets in their last three outings, but they remain winless in Serie A away matches against Napoli.

Given the hosts’ home advantage and superior goal-scoring form, we predict a narrow victory for Napoli.

**Prediction:** Napoli 2-1 Como

—

### Napoli vs Como Betting Tips

– **Tip 1: Result** – Napoli to win
– **Tip 2: Goals Over/Under 2.5** – Over 2.5 goals
– **Tip 3: Both Teams to Score** – Yes
– **Tip 4: At Least One Goal in the Second Half** – Yes

Stay tuned for an exciting fixture as Napoli look to maintain their lead at the top and Como aim to secure a valuable away result.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/football/napoli-vs-como-prediction-betting-tips-november-1st-2025

culture, economy, education, entertainment, sports

Nutley’s Meya Ranges takes third in Essex XC Championships

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Up until last week, Meya Ranges’ senior season has been all about pacing and patience. Throughout the offseason, Ranges focused on improving her pacing on the course to ensure she could finish races stronger. During the regular season, she was strategically held out of some of Nutley’s dual meets, keeping bigger goals in mind—namely the Essex County and upcoming NJSIAA state and sectional championships.

On Friday at Cedar Grove Park, that training and approach paid off in a big way. Ranges smashed her previous career best by running a 19:09.07 to claim third place at the Essex County Championships. Her medal-winning performance earned her The Observer Athlete of the Week honors.

For Ranges, this marked her second consecutive third-place finish at the Essex County Championships. Last fall, she took third with a time of 19:41.50.

“Going into Friday, I was really confident in myself, and now I have more experience running a 5K,” Ranges said. “I knew how to pace it, and I pretty much ran my own race. I definitely think I’m hitting my stride right now. I think a lot of the credit goes to my training and my coaches. At the beginning of the year, I didn’t run as many dual meets as I did before, just to save my legs for the championship season. I’ve been doing a lot of tempo runs during the dual meets, and that has definitely helped.”

Head coach Kara McNish added, “With Meya, we kind of mapped out the whole season, looking at invitationals and recovery time. I gave her certain days that she wasn’t going to race, like the Essex County Invitational and some dual meets. Last year, we didn’t do that at all, which I think, in the end, weighed heavy on her legs. By the time we got to sectionals and groups, she was feeling it.”

For Ranges, sitting out those dual meets wasn’t always easy. She admitted to feeling a bit of FOMO (fear of missing out) as she did her work separately from her teammates.

“I want to save my legs, but I want to be running. I want to be with them,” Ranges said, also crediting swimming and cross-training for helping her get stronger heading into the season. “But I know it’s for the better because Cedar Grove is all concrete, so it’s definitely harsh on your legs. Saving my energy, going to the track, and doing a tempo workout really did help. I felt really fresh on Friday.”

With her legs fresh and another year of experience under her belt, Ranges felt much more comfortable heading into this year’s county meet. Just ten days earlier, at the Super Essex Conference Championships, she set a then-personal best with a time of 19:19.40 at Cedar Grove.

According to Ranges, she didn’t start with the front pack in the field of 106 runners. Instead, she gradually made her way toward the front while saving a strong kick for the end.

“I definitely wanted to go under 19:20, but I really had no idea what was going to happen because everybody in Essex County is so good—everyone’s improving,” Ranges said. “So I just wanted to stay up, run my own race, try to catch up to the lead pack, and then kick at the end. That was my goal, and I executed it pretty well.”
https://www.theobserver.com/2025/10/29/nutleys-meya-ranges-takes-third-in-essex-xc-championships/

sports

Getafe vs Girona Prediction and Betting Tips | 31st October 2025

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The 2025-26 edition of La Liga is back in action with another set of matches this week as Getafe lock horns with Girona in a crucial encounter at the Coliseum Alfonso Perez on Friday. Both teams can pack a punch on their day and will be eager to secure a win.

### Getafe vs Girona Preview

Girona are currently rooted to the bottom of the La Liga standings and have struggled to impose themselves so far this season. The away side narrowly edged Constancia 3-2 in the Copa del Rey this week, but they will need to raise their level even further for this fixture.

Getafe, on the other hand, occupy 10th place in the league table at the moment and have shown inconsistency this season. The hosts comprehensively defeated Inter de Valdemoro 11-0 in their previous Copa del Rey game and will be aiming to replicate such a dominant performance this week.

### Getafe vs Girona Head-to-Head and Key Numbers

Getafe and Girona are evenly matched based on their recent head-to-head record. Out of the last 16 games between the two teams, both sides have claimed six victories each, with four matches ending in draws.

After enduring a five-match winless streak across all competitions, Getafe have bounced back strongly by winning their last two games without conceding a single goal and netting a total of 12 goals during this run.

In their last four matches in all competitions, Getafe have managed two wins—matching the number of victories they secured in the 10 games prior to this positive stretch. However, defensively, Getafe have conceded at least one goal in each of their last four matches, with their most recent clean sheet coming from a 0-0 draw against Espanyol last month.

### Getafe vs Girona Prediction

Getafe have been inconsistent so far this season and will need to deliver their best performance to claim victory in this game. The hosts can be lethal on their day and have a clear point to prove.

Girona’s form in La Liga has been dismal, and they cannot afford any mistakes in this fixture if they want to turn their season around. Overall, Getafe appear to be the better team at the moment and hold the upper hand going into this match.

**Prediction: Getafe 2-1 Girona**

### Getafe vs Girona Betting Tips

– **Tip 1:** Getafe to win
– **Tip 2:** Match to have over 2.5 goals – Yes
– **Tip 3:** Getafe to score first – Yes
https://www.sportskeeda.com/football/getafe-vs-girona-prediction-betting-tips-31st-october-2025