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T20 Asia Cup 2025 first stage and tri-series round up

**T20 Asia Cup 2025: Pakistan’s Journey and Performance Analysis**

The T20 Asia Cup 2025 is currently underway in the UAE, with Pakistan entering the tournament on the back of a confident and impressive run, having recently won the T20 Tri-Nation Series. Their triumph in the final against Afghanistan was a significant morale booster, setting high expectations for their Asia Cup campaign.

### Pakistan’s Asia Cup Campaign So Far

Pakistan kicked off their Asia Cup journey against Oman, delivering a commanding performance. Batting first, Pakistan posted a competitive total of 160/7. Wicketkeeper-batsman Muhammad Haris, batting at number 3, impressed with a brilliant 66 off 43 balls, striking at an impressive rate of 153.48, including 3 sixes and 7 boundaries.

The bowling unit then dismantled Oman’s batting lineup, bowling them out for a mere 67 runs in just 16.4 overs. The highlight was Pakistan’s spin attack combination — the spin trio of Muhammad Nawaz, Sufyan Muqeem, Abrar Ahmed — alongside the experienced Saim Ayub, who collectively shared the wickets and flattened the opposition with great control.

### Clash Against India: A Need for Improvement

Pakistan’s second match saw a tough rivalry clash against arch-rivals India, where unfortunately, Pakistan suffered a heavy defeat. Opting to bat first, Pakistan managed only a below-par 127/9. Nevertheless, Shaheen Afridi’s quickfire cameo of 33 not out off just 16 balls, featuring 4 sixes, was a silver lining batting at number 9.

India chased down the modest target comfortably in 15.5 overs, led by skipper Suryakumar Yadav’s unbeaten 47 off 37 balls. Notably, Shaheen Afridi targeted the key Indian bowlers, including Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy, hitting powerful sixes and boundaries. This signified that these bowlers can be vulnerable and are targetable, raising questions about Pakistan’s top-order batsmen’s struggles.

### Batting Concerns and Strategy Suggestions

It becomes clear that Pakistan’s batting approach needs urgent revision. The current “kamikaze” style is self-destructive and ineffective against disciplined bowling attacks. Instead, Pakistan should adopt a balanced method combining flair with stability, mixing strike rotation with boundary hitting.

A one-dimensional assault won’t suffice; calculated aggression anchored by strategic innings-building is essential to set or chase formidable totals. Proper cricketing shots and shot selection must be emphasized. For example, had Pakistan posted around 170 against India, the chase could have been far more challenging for their opponents, given Pakistan’s dynamic bowling arsenal featuring both pace and spin options.

Shaheen Afridi was the standout bowler for Pakistan in this match, taking 3 wickets for 28 runs in 4 overs. However, the batting line-up must consistently provide defendable totals for such a well-rounded bowling unit.

### Team Composition and Batting Order Adjustments

Wicket-taking spinner Sufyan Muqeem remains a vital asset for Pakistan and deserves continued backing with consistent opportunities. Meanwhile, Saim Ayub has struggled with the bat, registering three consecutive ducks in Asia Cup games. It may be worth experimenting by promoting Fakhar Zaman — who is in good form — to an opening position and pushing Ayub to number 3. Fakhar has a successful history opening for Pakistan and can stabilize the top order.

Pakistan’s latest match in the initial round against UAE was a must-win, and they delivered, progressing to the Super Four stage. Despite Saim Ayub’s continued batting woes, Fakhar Zaman scored a crucial 50 off 36 balls, anchored by Shaheen Afridi’s explosive 29 off 14 from the lower order. Pakistan posted 146/9, then restricted UAE to 105, with the bowling attack once again firing on all cylinders.

### Reading Spin: An Area for Improvement

One noticeable challenge for Pakistan’s batsmen has been reading spin bowling from the hand. Except for Captain Salman Agha, most have had difficulty adjusting to variations. The batsmen should train more on reading the spin from the pitch and preparing for the deliveries accordingly.

Additionally, reconsidering the batting order to maximize player strengths could be beneficial. For example, opening with Muhammad Haris and Fakhar Zaman could best utilize Haris’ timing and skill during the powerplay overs. Haris’ courageous innings of 41 runs off 20 balls in Auckland against New Zealand in 2024 showcased his ability to accelerate and clear the boundary efficiently.

### Looking Ahead: Super Four Round and Final Thoughts

Pakistan’s first Super Four match will be a high-octane rematch against India on September 21. Learning from previous encounters and refining their batting approach will be crucial.

Reflecting on their recent Tri-Nation Series final victory against Afghanistan in Sharjah, Pakistan displayed sheer dominance. Facing a spin-friendly and tricky surface, Pakistan managed a respectable 141/8 batting first. Coach Mike Hesson and Skipper Salman Agha were confident that the total would be challenging for Afghan batsmen.

In response, Afghanistan was bowled out for just 66 runs in 15.5 overs. The specialist spin trio of Nawaz, Abrar, and Muqeem were instrumental, with Muhammad Nawaz particularly standing out, claiming 5 wickets including a hat-trick, while maintaining an economy rate of 4.75. Nawaz also contributed with a valuable 25-run cameo earlier. Pakistan’s spin-heavy strategy effectively gave Afghanistan a taste of their own medicine on home conditions.

### Conclusion

Pakistan’s campaign in the T20 Asia Cup 2025 has been a mixture of dominance and areas requiring improvement. Their bowling attack, especially the spinners, has been exceptional and remains a key strength. However, the batting lineup must overcome its vulnerabilities by adopting a more balanced and strategic approach.

The upcoming matches in the Super Four stage present Pakistan with an opportunity to build momentum and showcase their full potential. With tactical adjustments and consistent performances, Pakistan can emerge as a formidable contender in this edition of the Asia Cup.
https://www.thenews.com.pk/tns/detail/1345092-t20-asia-cup-2025-first-stage-and-tri-series-round-up

Good fortune on gig economy

One of the more delightful mainstream films at the 50th Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) was *Good Fortune*, an American film in English featured in a Gala presentation. Directed by American comedian Aziz Ansari, who has roots in Tamil Nadu, the film also stars Keke Palmer and Sandra Oh. *Good Fortune* is scheduled for a worldwide theatrical release, including in India, on October 17, 2025.

From the South Asian diaspora at TIFF, two diverse features explored the evils of capitalism. One of these was Aneil Karia’s *Hamlet*, presented as a Centrepiece film. This powerful British adaptation of Shakespeare’s great tragedy is performed in both Punjabi and Shakespearean English, starring Riz Ahmed and Sheeba Chaddha.

*Good Fortune* continues the growing trend of comedians becoming film actors, stars, and directors—following in the footsteps of icons such as Charlie Chaplin, Chris Rock, and Jordan Peele. This mirrors a historical shift when singers became film stars with the advent of sound in cinema, a trend also seen with India’s own Kapil Sharma.

The story centers on an angel named Gabriel (played by Keanu Reeves), a lowly angel with small wings whose duties are limited to preventing people from texting and driving simultaneously. Gabriel’s life changes when he observes the struggles of Arj (Aziz Ansari), a gig worker delivering for an app-based company. Arj juggles multiple shifts, barely manages to feed himself, and is forced to sleep in his car, which eventually gets towed due to unpaid parking tickets.

Out of compassion, Gabriel swaps lives with Jeff (Seth Rogen), a wealthy venture capitalist whose California mansion Arj regularly delivers goods to. Gabriel expects that Arj will soon realize the flaws of the wealthy, carefree life and want to swap back to his humble existence. However, to Gabriel’s surprise, Arj enjoys his new life—sipping cocktails by the pool—and has no intention of returning to his previous hardships.

The film’s narrative borrows elements from several classics: Wim Wenders’ *Wings of Desire* (1987), where an angel comes to Earth; the body-swap comedy *Freaky Friday*; and nods to Frank Capra’s *It’s a Wonderful Life*, in which a man contemplating suicide reconsiders after reflecting on his selfless acts and the impact he has made.

*Good Fortune* employs some narrative back-and-forth, with Gabriel visible only to Arj, mixing laugh-out-loud comedy with poignant moments. The film highlights the hearts of gold found at the bottom of the gig economy—such as Arj’s on-again, off-again partner, who dreams of starting a union to fight for workers’ rights, not just for those fortunate enough to currently benefit.

Keanu Reeves’ deadpan portrayal of the angel anchors the film, while Seth Rogen delivers a dry wit in his role. Aziz Ansari, who co-created and directed 11 episodes of the critically acclaimed Netflix series *Master of None*, as well as his 2022 comedy special *Nightclub Comedian*, brings his distinct voice to this project.

Presented by Lionsgate, *Good Fortune* is backed by producers Aziz Ansari, Anthony Katagas, and Alan Yang. Executive producers include Aniz Adam Ansari, Jonathan McCoy, Christopher Woodrow, and Connor DiGregorio. In India, the film will be distributed by PVR INOX Pictures.

Meenakshi Shedde, a film curator with 30 years of experience working with Toronto, Berlin, and other international film festivals, has played roles such as Cannes Film Festival Jury Member and Golden Globes International Voter. She is also a respected journalist and critic. You can reach her at meenakshi.shedde@mid-day.com.
https://www.mid-day.com/news/opinion/article/good-fortune-on-gig-economy-23595011

What caught our eye

**Changing Lives: Breaking Barriers and Rebuilding Dreams**

In a world where beauty standards often exclude rather than include, Pakistan’s Depilex Smileagain Foundation (DSF) and L’Oréal Pakistan, with funding from Fondation L’Oréal, recently celebrated a significant milestone. Sixty women completed a transformative four-month training course and gathered at the Depilex centre in Karachi to receive their certificates. This course is part of the *Beauty for a Better Life* (BFBL) programme.

BFBL isn’t just about teaching skills; it’s about rewriting the narrative of survival and recovery. These were not ordinary graduates — all of them were survivors of acid attacks and domestic violence. The training covered haircare, skincare, makeup, and salon management, but its impact went far beyond professional skills.

For these women, the course represented much more than simple training. It meant independence and an opportunity to rebuild their lives.

Masarrat Misbah, founder of DSF, explained at the graduation ceremony, “*Beauty for a Better Life* is more than a training programme. It restores dignity, reignites hope, and opens real opportunities.”

Despite this progress, the reality remains complex. Many survivors still face discrimination in hiring processes, exclusion from family gatherings, and suffer from limited long-term support systems. Masarrat Misbah emphasised the pressing need for practical help in securing steady employment. Vocational training is only the beginning — survivors need genuine opportunities to apply what they have learnt.

Two weeks before the graduation, *Runway SS 25* transformed what could have been just another glamorous fashion event into something profoundly meaningful. The event brought together Pakistan’s leading designers, stylists, models, choreographers, fashion writers, bloggers, influencers, celebrities, and editors.

Masarrat Misbah herself walked the runway alongside acid attack survivors and vision-impaired persons, highlighting the power of inclusion. The collaboration showcased clothes by designer Zubair Shah. Professional models accompanied survivors down the catwalk — some wore confident smiles, others displayed quiet determination. The audience, composed of Pakistan’s fashion elite, rose to their feet in applause.

This moment was more than a narrative shift from victims to survivors — it signified a true sense of belonging.

The fashion showcase was about more than just clothes. Renowned dancer Sheema Kermani performed Kathak to the poetry of Faiz Ahmed Faiz, honouring colleagues the arts community has lost. Young dancers infused contemporary energy into classical forms. Designers presented a range of styles, from traditional bridal wear to innovative garments.

Transgender rights activist Kami Chaudhry made a striking appearance as a showstopper, reinforcing the event’s broader message of inclusion.

For Anwaar (name changed to protect identity), a young man who survived an acid attack, walking the runway fulfilled a dream he thought was lost forever.

“As a teenager, I aspired to be a model. But after the acid attack, I thought that dream was impossible. Not in my wildest dreams could I have imagined walking the runway as a model again after what happened to me. This is truly a dream come true,” he shared.

Anwaar’s experience captures the deep impact of the programme: not only does it train survivors and equip them with tools for economic independence, but it also gives them the confidence to believe that their dreams can become reality.

**Beauty for a Better Life is transforming lives — one step, one dream, and one runway at a time.**
https://www.thenews.com.pk/tns/detail/1345076-what-caught-our-eye

AEW subtly drops huge John Cena reference during All Out

During All Out: Toronto tonight, AEW made a very subtle reference to John Cena during one of the major matches.

The promotion included a small nod to the WWE Superstar without directly mentioning him. This clever inclusion caught the attention of fans, adding an extra layer of excitement to the event.

AEW continues to find creative ways to acknowledge wrestling legends while maintaining their own unique identity.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/aew/news-aew-subtly-drops-huge-john-cena-reference-all-out

EA FC 26 Edin Dzeko Flashback SBC: All tasks and cheapest solutions

EA Sports has released the EA FC 26 Edin Dzeko Flashback SBC in Ultimate Team, giving gamers the chance to add an 85-rated version of the Bosnian striker to their squads. This is the second player SBC launched as part of the Early Access week for the game, offering an impressive item that can be a formidable presence on the virtual pitch.

The Fiorentina forward has previously represented some of Italy’s biggest clubs, including AS Roma and Inter Milan. However, this EA FC 26 Edin Dzeko Flashback SBC item takes a nostalgic look back at his rise to prominence in European football during his time at Manchester City, where he delivered multiple impactful performances as a substitute striker.

### EA FC 26 Edin Dzeko Flashback SBC: Tasks and Cheapest Solutions

Similar to the recently released Reece James SBC, the Edin Dzeko Flashback SBC requires completing multiple squads. Below are the requirements and some of the cheapest player solutions for each segment:

#### Task 1 + 2: 82-Rated Squad
– **Minimum Team Rating:** 82
– **Cheapest player options:**
– Gavi (83)
– Kamara (83)
– Ilkay Gundogan (83)
– Bowen (83)
– Dejan Kulusevski (83)
– Naeher (82)
– Lee Kang In (79)
– Kaku (79)
– Bouanga (79)
– Provod (78)
– Sallai (78)

#### Task 3: 83-Rated Squad
– **Minimum Team Rating:** 83
– **Cheapest player options:**
– Dali (83)
– Artem Dovbyk (83)
– Athenea (83)
– Van de Donk (83)
– Ilkay Gundogan (83)
– Kamara (83)
– Bowen (83)
– Dejan Kulusevski (83)
– Cerci (83)
– Hendrich (82)
– Eriksson (82)

#### Task 4: 84-Rated Squad
– **Minimum Team Rating:** 84
– **Cheapest player options:**
– Romelu Lukaku (84)
– Alexander Sorloth (84)
– Greggi (84)
– Nusken (84)
– Sergej Milinkovic-Savic (84)
– Alex Greenwood (84)
– Damaris Egurrola (84)
– Fox (84)
– Hampton (84)
– Van de Donk (83)
– Ilkay Gundogan (83)

### EA FC 26 Edin Dzeko Flashback SBC: Review

The overall cost to complete this SBC is estimated to be around 35,000 coins. When compared to other meta Serie A strikers like Marcus Thuram, Dzeko’s Flashback card features the stats necessary to perform well on the pitch, especially under the FC IQ system.

The SBC requirements are not overly demanding, as many gamers will already own several 82 and 83-rated players suitable for these squads. This makes the challenge relatively accessible for most Ultimate Team players.

In summary, the Edin Dzeko Flashback SBC is worth completing, particularly if you can minimize costs by using untradeable player items. However, spending coins on SBCs at this early stage of the game might not be the best investment, so weigh your options carefully before committing.

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Stay tuned for more updates and tips on EA FC 26 Ultimate Team content!
https://www.sportskeeda.com/esports/ea-fc-26-edin-dzeko-flashback-sbc-all-tasks-cheapest-solutions

Sustainability: Discovering a path to the future

MANILA, Philippines – Sustainability may be the guiding light of many of today’s businesses and enterprises, but for Discovery Primea, it is also shining the way to the future.

David Pardo Ayala, general manager of the luxury Makati hotel, says while sustainability is being increasingly accepted by many people, younger individuals expect—even demand—it from the brands and companies they support.
https://business.inquirer.net/548224/discovering-a-path-to-the-future

Alternative financing for human capital

An analysis of the public expenditure reviews from 2017-22 reveals that child-focused spending by provincial governments is not aligned with their budgetary commitments. Public finance constraints, driven by large debt servicing expenditures, are curtailing social sector investment. Currently, public spending on education is limited to only 2% of GDP, health at 1%, and social protection at 1%.

The future of nearly 40% of our population—currently below the age of 18—is at stake due to inadequate investment in human capital development. According to the IMF, Pakistan faces a social sector financing gap equivalent to 16.1% of its GDP to meet the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. Although fiscal deficits improved with the Extended Fund Facility, public finance remains insufficient to meet UN benchmarks and the required social sector spending.

**Revenue Distribution and Fiscal Challenges**

The revenue distribution mechanism under the National Finance Commission (NFC) Award is equally important, as the provinces rely heavily on federal transfers for social spending. Besides debt repayments, low-to-moderate GDP growth, and limited revenue generation, other factors aggravate the fiscal challenge. These include covariate shocks such as recurring climate disasters and demographic pressure.

Consequently, about 26 million children are currently out of school. Multi-dimensional poverty has surged to 40% of the population, meaning any further reduction in social spending risks pushing more people into intergenerational poverty.

Amid global austerity measures, official development assistance (ODA) sharply declined in 2025. Therefore, it is increasingly important for federal and provincial governments, alongside civil society, to diversify financing sources and develop expertise in alternative financing for sustainable social sector investments. New policy instruments and innovative models must be adopted to expand fiscal space.

**A Paradigm Shift in Social Spending**

There is a pressing need to approach social spending as an investment in future generations. Traditional views often perceive social spending as charity or welfare, which is no longer adequate to meet the scale of Pakistan’s challenges. A fundamental paradigm shift is required to reconceptualize this spending as a high-return investment in future human capital.

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### Policy Instruments and Reforms

1. **Redesign Financing Structures with Results-Based Approaches**

Financing strategies should be multi-layered, integrating traditional and non-traditional financing models as well as international funding aligned with national goals and medium-term budget frameworks. Incorporating results-based financing treats social spending as a high-return investment in human capital.

This shift will pave the way to expand the fiscal pool by attracting private capital investments through social impact bonds and other innovative instruments. Successful pilot projects can then be scaled up effectively.

2. **Align Policy Goals and Prioritize Social Sector through a Child Rights Lens**

Currently, fiscal policy has been reactionary rather than proactive in addressing children’s constitutional rights. There is a lack of long-term, sustainable financing approaches to fuel resilience and productivity.

A positive recent development is the equity and empowerment mandate of URAAN Pakistan, which strives for inclusive and equitable education, health, and nutrition for children. Realizing this vision requires collaboration among all stakeholders to forge long-term development investments alongside immediate emergency responses.

3. **Enhance Utilization and Allocation of Social Sector Spending**

Effective utilization is crucial for sustainability and scalability. Due to the absence of Provincial Finance Commissions, much development expenditure is focused on infrastructure rather than social sector development. The NFC award also requires modification to incorporate explicit provisions for provincial social spending.

4. **Integrate Climate Adaptation Strategies with Social Sector Programs**

There is a strong connection between social sector financing and climate finance, which can be translated into child-focused climate finance alternatives. Pakistan can learn from Malawi’s Climate Health Resilience project, a notable case study in cross-sectoral climate finance.

Education and health projects can link with initiatives in water management, urban resilience, infrastructure, and flood recovery. Achieving this requires capacity building, willingness to reform, and the development of proposals with this integrated approach in mind.

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### Innovative and Cost-Effective Financing Models

Many experts advocate for innovative alternative financing models to diversify fiscal resources for social sector investment. Some noteworthy examples include:

– **Blended Finance:** Combines public and philanthropic funds with private capital to mobilize investment for sustainable development, reducing risks for investors. The Global Partnership for Education Multiplier Fund is a successful example.

– **Development Impact Bonds and Social Impact Bonds:** Outcome-based financial instruments where private investment supports social programs, with repayments conditional on achieving results. These bonds enable collaboration among public sectors, private investors, and service providers. For example, the Punjab Skills Development Fund is implementing the first Employment Impact Bond, focusing on imparting future-ready skills to youth.

– **Social Success Notes:** Private investment by social enterprises with returns linked to achieved outcomes.

– **Social Impact Guarantees:** Governments or donors provide guarantees to incentivize private investment. Singapore’s Social Impact Guarantee Program has improved education and employment outcomes for youth.

– **Catastrophe Bonds:** Insurance-linked securities that can support climate adaptation initiatives under Pakistan’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to finance disaster response.

Public finance remains indispensable for the social sector. Alternative financing instruments should complement—not replace—public expenditure.

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### Debt Swaps and Corporate Sector Engagement

Given high debt servicing costs that surpass social spending, bilateral debt swaps and Debt-for-Child Buybacks present strong opportunities. Pakistan could renegotiate bilateral debts to replace repayments with commitments for investment in social and sustainable development programs.

Egypt’s recent debt swap with Germany, where resources are committed toward welfare programs, serves as a successful example. Pakistan can similarly implement Debt-for-Child Buybacks to direct funds toward child health, education, and wellbeing.

The private sector should adopt a long-term, outcome-driven approach to corporate social responsibility (CSR) and philanthropy, aligning initiatives with national development goals. Instead of one-off projects, investments must focus on measurable social impact. The Indus Hospital Network exemplifies how sustained, strategic healthcare philanthropy can support vulnerable populations effectively.

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### Revenue Generation and Program Sustainability

– The **Sehat Sahulat Programme** should evolve from a non-contributory to a contributory model to ensure long-term sustainability and improved healthcare quality.

– Levies on tobacco and soft drinks can generate dedicated revenue for child-focused health and nutrition programs while also discouraging consumption of harmful products.

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### Conclusion

Recent floods and their devastating impact on children underscore that traditional approaches—often seen as mere charity or welfare—are insufficient. A fundamental shift is needed to reconceptualize social spending as a high-return investment in Pakistan’s future human capital.

The sustainability and scalability of social sector investments will ultimately depend on their alignment with local needs and contexts, as well as their integration with national and sustainable development goals.

By adopting innovative financing models, enhancing policy alignment, and leveraging both public and private resources, Pakistan can build resilient social sectors that secure a brighter future for its children.
https://www.thenews.com.pk/tns/detail/1345119-alternative-financing-for-human-capital

The 1000 Goal Chase: Can Ronaldo or Messi Achieve the Impossible?

In the modern era of football, reaching 1,000 career goals is an achievement widely considered impossible. Yet, Cristiano Ronaldo has taken another step toward football immortality. Following his brace against Al Riyadh SC on 20 September 2025, the Al Nassr star reached 945 official goals, keeping alive the dream of becoming the first modern player to score 1,000 career goals.

### Who’s Really Leading the Race?

Ronaldo is the undisputed frontrunner. With 945 official strikes, he needs just 55 more to hit the magic four-digit mark. Meanwhile, Lionel Messi remains distant on 885 goals. With Messi now playing for Inter Miami, the gap between the two stars is becoming increasingly difficult to bridge.

### How Do We Count the Goals?

Career tallies can be calculated in two ways:

– **Official competitive goals:** This method is trusted by bodies like RSSSF and IFFHS and includes goals scored in league, cup, continental, and international matches.
– **All matches:** A looser standard that inflates totals by including friendlies, which is why legends like Pelé and Romário are often listed above 1,000 goals.

### The Rest of the Pack

Other prolific scorers trail behind Ronaldo and Messi by a significant margin. Robert Lewandowski sits at 715 goals, Harry Kane at 479, Neymar at 445, while Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland have 393 and 315 goals respectively. Although talented, they are still hundreds of goals away from the elusive 1,000 milestone.

### The Big Picture

At 40 years old, Ronaldo remains football’s only realistic hope of reaching the mythical 1,000-goal landmark. Messi is too far back, and while the next generation is bursting with talent, few may match Ronaldo’s longevity and consistency.

Do you think we will see a player reach 1,000 goals in the modern era? Share your thoughts below!
https://ca.sports.yahoo.com/news/1000-goal-chase-ronaldo-messi-235500240.html

Mensah, Castle lead Duke to comeback past N.C. State, 45-33

DURHAM, N.C. (AP) — Darian Mensah threw three touchdown passes as Duke snapped a two-game losing streak, overcoming a 13-point deficit to beat N.C. State 45-33 on Saturday.

The Blue Devils (2-2, 1-0 Atlantic Coast Conference opener) scored 21 points in less than four minutes of game time, spanning the two halves, to surge into the lead. Anderson Castle added three rushing touchdowns, including a clinching 66-yard dash on third down with 2:19 remaining.

For N.C. State (3-1, 1-1), CJ Bailey tossed two touchdown passes to Terrell Anderson but was intercepted three times. Hollywood Smothers rushed for 123 yards and one touchdown, while Will Wilson had two 1-yard TD runs. Anderson finished with 166 yards on six catches.

Mensah was 19-for-28 passing for 269 yards. Castle gained 92 rushing yards on 12 attempts.

N.C. State drove 99 yards to score on the second play of the second quarter on Bailey’s 6-yard throw to Anderson and later extended the lead to 20-7. The game-changing play came inside of two minutes in the first half when Duke linebacker Tre Freeman intercepted Bailey’s fourth-down pass, returning it 67 yards to set up a go-ahead 1-yard touchdown run from Castle.

**The Takeaway**

*N.C. State:* The Wolfpack racked up 535 yards of total offense but struggled with defensive lapses that prevented them from securing a second consecutive in-state road victory.

*Duke:* The Blue Devils were minus-6 in turnover margin entering the game, but their plus-4 effort on Saturday proved crucial in toppling the Wolfpack for the third season in a row. Duke, which also blocked a third-quarter field goal attempt, has now won five of the last six meetings.

**Up Next**

– *N.C. State:* Saturday at home vs. Virginia Tech
– *Duke:* Saturday at Syracuse

Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. [Sign up here.](#)

AP college football coverage continues.
https://www.winnipegfreepress.com/uncategorized/2025/09/20/mensah-castle-lead-duke-to-comeback-past-n-c-state-45-33

Indore: Patient’s Attender Stabbed In Road Rage Incident At Super Specialty Hospital

**Road Rage Incident at Indore Super Specialty Hospital Leaves Youth Injured**

Indore (Madhya Pradesh): A 28-year-old man visiting a patient at the Super Specialty Hospital was stabbed during a road rage incident on Saturday afternoon.

The incident occurred around 2 pm under the jurisdiction of Sanyogitaganj police station when the victim was leaving the hospital campus in his car. According to police reports, the accused approached from the wrong side on a two-wheeler, initiating an argument with the victim before attacking him.

ACP Sanyogitaganj Tushar Singh informed that the victim, identified as Gaurav Patidar, a resident of Rau, had come to visit a patient admitted to the hospital. While leaving, a man named Hardeep, riding his bike from the wrong side, confronted Gaurav and accused him of crossing too close.

The argument escalated quickly, with Hardeep pulling out a knife and stabbing Gaurav, causing serious injuries. In addition to the stabbing, Hardeep allegedly damaged Gaurav’s car during the altercation.

Gaurav was immediately rushed to the hospital, where he is currently undergoing treatment. The police have registered a case of attempted murder against the accused under relevant sections of the BNS. Further investigation into the incident is ongoing.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/indore/indore-patients-attender-stabbed-in-road-rage-incident-at-super-specialty-hospital