Virat Kohli and Steve Smith shared an emotional moment after India defeated Australia by 4 wickets in the Champions Trophy 2025 semi-final in Dubai. Smith, who scored 73 runs, announced his retirement from ODIs after the match. A viral video captured Kohli asking Smith if it was his last ODI, and upon hearing "Yes," he embraced him warmly. Smith, a two-time World Cup winner, retires with 5,800 ODI runs. India will face New Zealand in the final on March 9. Smith reaffirmed his commitment to Test cricket, with the World Test Championship final against South Africa ahead.

India strongly condemned the security breach during External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar’s UK visit, calling pro-Khalistan protesters “separatists and extremists.” The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) criticized the misuse of democratic freedoms and urged the UK to uphold its diplomatic obligations. India reiterated concerns over violent protests by anti-India elements, demanding accountability. Despite disruptions, Jaishankar continued meetings with UK PM Keir Starmer and other leaders, discussing key bilateral issues, including extremism. India has consistently raised concerns over such protests, including previous incidents outside the Indian High Commission and disruptions at a London cinema screening an Indian film.

India has sent a judicial request to the US for key information in the Rs 64 crore Bofors scam probe. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) sent a letter rogatory to the US justice department, seeking details from Michael Hershman, head of US-based Fairfax, regarding alleged kickbacks in the 1980s arms deal. Hershman had claimed Rajiv Gandhi was "furious" over a Swiss bank account linked to the scandal. The case, first registered in 1990, was instrumental in Rajiv Gandhi's 1989 election defeat. The move signals a renewed focus on the 40-year-old controversy.

A South Korean KF-16 fighter jet accidentally dropped 8 bombs in Pocheon, near the North Korean border, during a training exercise. The explosion injured 6 civilians and 2 soldiers, with 2 in serious condition. The bombs, meant for a military range, were "abnormally" released, damaging 7 buildings. The air force apologized and promised compensation, while a committee will investigate the incident. The mishap occurred ahead of South Korea-US joint military drills. Residents have long protested the risks of training grounds near civilian areas.

Tahawwur Rana, accused in the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, has approached the US Supreme Court seeking an emergency stay on his extradition to India. Rana, a Muslim of Pakistani origin, argued that he faces a "high likelihood" of torture if sent to India. His plea comes after lower US courts approved his extradition. India has long sought Rana’s custody for his alleged role in the deadly 2008 attacks. The US Supreme Court's decision will determine whether he is extradited or remains in the US.

India pacer Mohammed Shami acknowledged that playing all matches in Dubai has “definitely helped” the team in the Champions Trophy. Critics claim India benefited from familiar conditions and no travel, while other teams played across multiple Pakistan venues. “We know the pitch and its behavior well,” Shami said after India’s semifinal win over Australia. However, coach Gautam Gambhir dismissed the allegations, calling them baseless. India remains unbeaten, with Shami leading the wicket charts with 8 scalps. The final will also be held in Dubai under the Hybrid Model.

India’s Securities and Exchange Board (Sebi) has banned YouTuber Asmita Patel and six others for selling illegal stock tips disguised as education. Patel, who called herself the “She-Wolf of the stock market,” allegedly earned over $11.4M from trading courses while making just $13,700 in trading profits. The crackdown follows complaints from 42 investors. Critics argue Sebi’s delayed action and new strict regulations could stifle genuine financial education. “It should have acted earlier,” said journalist Sucheta Dalal. Sebi now seeks greater powers to monitor online financial content.

A 27-year-old student from Telangana, Gampa Praveen, was shot dead by robbers at a store in Milwaukee, US, where he worked part-time. Praveen, pursuing his MS at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, called his father before the incident, but the call went unanswered. His friends later informed the family of his death. The Indian Embassy in Chicago assured full support to the family. Praveen hailed from Keshampet in Telangana’s Ranga Reddy district. His father said, "I called back, but someone else answered, and I grew suspicious." Police are investigating the shooting.

A pro-Khalistan extremist breached External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar’s security in London, rushing toward his car and tearing the Indian flag. The incident occurred outside Chatham House, where Jaishankar had defended India's Kashmir stance. A video shows the attacker exploiting police hesitation before being detained. Another clip shows protesters waving Khalistani flags and chanting slogans. Jaishankar, in talks with UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy, reiterated that "Kashmir is solved when Pakistan returns the stolen part." The UK government has yet to respond to the security breach.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump defended his tariff policies, stating he is "just getting started" on economic measures against China. His remarks come as Beijing warns of potential retaliation, with a Chinese official declaring, "We are prepared for any type of war, trade or otherwise." Trump, a 2024 presidential candidate, has vowed to impose higher tariffs if re-elected, arguing they will protect American jobs. Analysts warn escalating tensions could destabilize global markets. "China won't sit idly by," a Beijing-based economist said. The Biden administration has yet to comment on Trump's statements.