Latest news with #Pandemic
Time of India
3 days ago
- Sport
- Time of India
Ashes: Rooting for Joe Root! Can England batter end his wait for a ton Down Under?
Joe Root (AP Photo) Eleven years ago, the late Martin Crowe, the cerebral Kiwi batting great, had prophesied in one of his columns that India's Virat Kohli , England's Joe Root , Australia's Steve Smith and New Zealand's Kane Williamson would take turns to be ranked the No. 1 Test batter across the next decade. The pioneer was right. All of them went on to hit sublime peaks in between navigating distressing troughs. But Root, the youngest of the four, has, since the Pandemic, distanced himself from his illustrious peers and surged far ahead. Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW! In 66 Tests post Covid, Root has amassed 5944 runs with 22 hundreds at an average of 55.55. A batting reset during the forced break allowed Root the time and space to recalibrate his game and spot areas for improvement, especially against spin and short-pitched bowling. Obsessed about where his hands, head and feet were, he quickly realised that run making and eliminating risk was what batting was about. Root noted that even if he was in the wrong position, he could benefit if good balls were kept out. A quick call to former England skipper Nasser Hussain, who arranged for footage of his dismissals from the broadcasters to see if there was a pattern, helped him. Poll Will Joe Root finally score a century in Australia this November? Yes, he will No, he won't The Covid break did different things to Root's peers. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like It's Genius for Learning Languages [See Why] Talkpal AI Undo Williamson saw a rise in his numbers. In 25 Tests, he logged 2800 runs, averaging 66.66 with 12 hundreds between 2020 and 2025. Smith endured a struggle and saw a 10 percentile drop in his average. In 45 Tests, across 3250 runs, he slammed 10 hundreds, averaging 45.13. It was only Kohli who suffered a catastrophic collapse in his game post 2020. From averaging 62.15 between Jan 1, 2015 to Jan 1, 2020, a period in which he played 52 Tests, scored 4848 runs and reeled off 18 hundreds, including seven double tons — all as captain — Kohli could log just 1990 runs in the 37 Tests till the end of his career. He added only three more tons more to his existing 27 and averaged just 32.09. Root has maximised the 27-32 age period, a time zone where batters are meant to be at their peak, by shunning the lure of T20 franchise cricket. Probably not being in England's T20 set-up has also allowed him more time to recharge his batteries and maintain fitness. Note, Root has missed only two of the 158 Tests that he has played in. He was dropped once and was away on paternity leave for the other. When he captained England with middling results, seeming like the weight of the world was on his shoulders, Root saw his batting average fall to 46.44. In the 'Bazball' era under Stokes and McCullum though, Root has rediscovered old peaks and old joy. With 3654 runs in 41 Tests at an average of 58 and 14 tons, he smiles more and snarls less. Unless you are named Prasidh Krishna! When you watch Root from a distance, it is easy to miss him. He does not have Kohli's swagger or his booming cover drive. He is not fidgety and restless like Smith. He does not have Williamson's pathological calm. What Root has, though, is a method of scoring that he fully trusts. The clip off his hips to midwicket from off-stump, the steer across point that occasionally causes him grief on bouncy tracks, the efficient working of the ball into gaps that helps him rotate strike against spin. The odd reverse sweep to put the bowler off. These are moments that may not make it into highlights packages. But they compound into runs and have helped Root move up rapidly on the table of 'G.O.A.T.S'. These traits have also allowed him to drop anchor and carve out a fourth innings average of 113 in victorious Tests with two centuries. Can he correct the one gaping hole in his resume of not having a three-figure score Down Under, come Nov? Another veteran in the autumn of his career — someone a young Root watched as he summoned Pragyan Ojha during practice at the Wankhede in Nov 2012 — had two tons in Australia while still in his teens. Root knows that any comparisons with the great Sachin Tendulkar , who he now trails by only 2,378 runs in the race for the highest run-getter in Tests, will be justified if and when he aces the Australia Test. Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
Western Telegraph
23-07-2025
- Business
- Western Telegraph
Pembrokeshire village pub conversion to house refused
In a partly retrospective application to Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, Ms G Key, through agent Evans Banks Planning Limited, sought permission for the conversion of the former Taberna Inn and associated flat, Herbrandston Village, Milford Haven, to one residential dwelling. Work started in March 2021 but has not been finished. A supporting statement through the agent said: 'We understand that the property was purchased by the applicant in November 2020 and operated for four months as a public house on the ground floor. 'The property has therefore remained closed as a public house since that date and only used for residential purposes by the applicant. This current application therefore seeks to regularise the situation and enable the properly to be used as a single residential dwelling.' More: Fears closure of fire-ravaged village school being 'steamrolled' through More: Pembrokeshire beaches named some of the cleanest in the UK It says the loss of the pub to the village will not be felt as strongly as elsewhere as Herbrandston has an alternative venue, Herbrandston Hub, which opened in February 2020, and acts a successful community venue and centre for the settlement's sports teams. It adds: 'The Pandemic had and continues to have many impacts on people's lives and also their livelihoods, no more so than in the leisure and hospitality industries. With socialising patterns having now changed, many village public houses have found it impossible to continue to operate at anywhere near a viable level.' Local community council Hebrandston objected to the proposal on the grounds the village has already lost amenities in recent years, adding: 'The councillors feel strongly that the community needs and deserves the Taberna to remain as a public house and restaurant. 'The Community Hub in the village, that is mentioned in the application as an alternative to the Taberna is not a suitable replacement. It is only open part time, i.e. Thursday/Friday evenings, and weekends. It is run by an association of volunteers and is primarily used by the sports teams that use the field. It does not have a food licence, and they have no desire to open any restaurant.' An officer report recommending refusal said: 'Given the lack of evidence justifying the loss of this community facility and guest houses within the small community of Herbranston, it is considered that the proposed development would lead to a detrimental reduction in the existing level and range of facilities available to Park residents and visitors, contrary to the Local Development Plan's aim to encourage the retention and provision of such facilities.' The application was refused on grounds including it would 'result in the unacceptable loss of an existing community facility,' and 'the applicant has failed to demonstrate the potential for continued use of the facility as unviable'.
Time of India
21-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Ageless at 59, Shah Rukh Khan follows no fancy diet or trendy workout. Fitness routine is very simple but unsual
At 59, Shah Rukh Khan continues to impress with his youthful appearance and lean physique, which he attributes to a simple, disciplined lifestyle. In resurfaced interviews and recent comments, the actor shared that he eats only two basic meals a day, avoids snacks, and isn't fond of rich or elaborate dishes. While he follows this routine at home, he remains flexible during social gatherings. Khan also revealed that he sleeps only five hours a night, often going to bed at 5 AM after a late-night workout. Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Flexible When It Matters Late Nights and Limited Sleep Turning Point During the Pandemic Shah Rukh Khan has long been admired for his charisma and screen presence, but in recent years, the actor has also gained attention for his remarkably youthful appearance. At 59, he continues to impress with a lean frame, defined muscles, and energetic performances. While fans often speculate about the secrets behind his age-defying look, Khan has openly shared that his approach is far from extreme. Through simple eating habits, consistent workouts, and a disciplined—though unconventional—routine, the actor has managed to maintain his health and physique without relying on fad diets or complicated a resurfaced interview from years ago with RJ Devanggana, Khan revealed that his daily meals are intentionally kept minimal and straightforward. He said that he naturally gravitates toward basic food and typically limits himself to just two meals a day—lunch and are no in-between snacks, and his meals usually include items like sprouts, grilled chicken, broccoli, and the occasional serving of dal. He also mentioned that he isn't particularly fond of rich or elaborate dishes and has followed this eating pattern for several the simplicity of his regular meals, Khan made it clear that he doesn't rigidly adhere to his routine in all situations. In the same chat, he shared that when traveling or dining with others, he eats whatever is served—whether it's biryani, parathas, food prepared with ghee, or a glass of lassi. He believes in being considerate and respectful when sharing meals, choosing not to impose restrictions in social aspect of Khan's lifestyle that often draws attention is his sleep schedule. Speaking to The Guardian, he shared that he usually goes to bed around 5 AM and wakes up by 9 or 10 AM when he has shooting commitments. After returning home late at night—often around 2 AM—he follows it up with a shower and a quick workout before sleeping. Despite the limited hours of rest, he maintains this rhythm consistently, noting that it suits his way of fitness transformation also took a significant leap during the COVID-19 lockdown. At 55, he took a conscious break from work and encouraged those around him to develop new skills. While others experimented with cooking, he chose to focus on his fitness. Taking his own advice, he began working out regularly and gradually built a physique he felt confident about. The results of that effort have been evident in his recent appearances, which have been widely praised by fans and fitness enthusiasts alike.
Medical News Today
13-07-2025
- Health
- Medical News Today
What to know about the Nimbus COVID-19 variant
The Nimbus variant, or NB.1.8.1, is a strain of SARS-CoV-2, which causes COVID-19. Alongside the usual symptoms of COVID-19, it can cause a razor blade sensation in the throat and gastrointestinal symptoms, such as nausea and vomiting. Although research on this variant is limited, it does not appear to result in more severe illness with COVID-19, and the currently approved vaccines are still is it?NB.1.8.1, unofficially named Nimbus, is a variant of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which causes coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).It is currently listed as a 'variant under monitoring' (VUM) by the World Health Organization (WHO). Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the World Health Organization (WHO) has been keeping track of different variants of SARS-CoV-2. The WHO assesses the variants and designates them as one of the following:VUM: This refers to SARS-CoV-2 variants that may require attention and monitoring. The WHO aims to determine whether these variants pose an additional threat to global public health compared to the other of Interest: A VOI refers to SARS-CoV-2 variants with changes that can affect how the virus behaves and its potential impact on a person's health. This could include its ability to spread and cause serious disease, and how it can be detected and of Concern: A VOC refers to SARS-CoV-2 variants that meet the criteria of a VOI and meet one or more of the following criteria: spreads rapidlycauses more severe diseasechanges in clinical presentationescapes the body's immune responsedecreases the effectiveness of public health measures, diagnostics, vaccines, or treatmentsWhat are the symptoms?According to the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunizations (Gavi), the symptoms of the NB.1.8.1 variant are essentially the same as the symptoms of the Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2. The top five reported symptoms of the Omicron variant are:runny noseheadachefatiguesneezingsore throatHealthcare professionals in India report that it can cause a hoarse voice. Additionally, doctors in the United Kingdom warn that people may experience a razor blade sensation in the throat and gastrointestinal symptoms, including:nauseavomitingdiarrheaheartburnbloatingconstipationstomach painHowever, it is important to note that these symptoms have not been confirmed in scientific symptoms of COVID-19 include:coughshortness of breathnew loss of taste or smellmuscle and body achesheadacheWill it cause a more severe illness with COVID-19?The WHO has concluded that there is currently no evidence to suggest that this variant will result in more severe illness with COVID-19 than other also state that it does not appear to cause any additional public health risks and that it is not resistant to nirmatrelvir, an antiviral medication made by Pfizer to help treat COVID-19. This medication is combined with another antiviral called ritonavir under the brand name quickly does it spread?Although it does not appear to cause more severe illness with COVID-19, the NB.1.8.1 variant has evolved to spread to 2025 research, the NB.1.8.1 variant strongly binds to a human protein called ACE2. The virus uses this protein to enter human could be due to changes in its structure. Compared to earlier versions of the virus, it has seven changes in the spike protein, which is the part of the virus that attaches to human vaccines still effective against it?The WHO's risk evaluation states that the currently approved COVID-19 vaccines are still expected to be effective against this evaluation outlines one study that found that the NB.1.8.1 variant showed a 1.5- to 1.6-fold reduction in antibody effectiveness compared to the current most common COVID-19 variant. However, the WHO states that more research is necessary, and the current vaccines will still be explainedAntibodies are Y-shaped proteins that are a part of the immune system. The base of an antibody can communicate with other parts of the immune system, and the tip of an antibody binds to foreign invaders, such as bacteria and viruses, called antigens, to help the body eliminate it learns to recognize an antigen, the antibodies continue to circulate in the body and provide protection against future exposure to that particular the FDA has approved the following COVID-19 vaccines in the United States:Moderna (Spikevax)Comirnaty (Pfizer-BioNTech)The FDA has also authorized the following COVID-19 vaccines for emergency use:Moderna COVID-19 vaccine for individuals 6 months to 11 years of agePfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine for individuals 6 months to 11 years of ageNovavax (Nuvaxovid) for those ages 12 and over»Learn more:COVID-19 vaccines and current recommendationsSummaryThe unofficially named Nimbus variant, or NB.1.8.1, is a new strain of SARS-CoV-2. It appears to cause symptoms similar to another SARS-CoV-2 variant called Omicron. According to reports from doctors in the UK, it can cause a razor-blade sensation in the throat. Healthcare professionals in India report that it can cause a hoarse voice and gastrointestinal symptoms. NB1.8.1 is currently classed as a VUM by the WHO. This means that it is a variant that they will continue to monitor to see if it poses an additional threat to global public it does not appear to cause more severe illness with COVID-19, although it has evolved to spread quickly. The currently-approved vaccines are expected to remain effective against the NB.1.8.1 variant.
Yahoo
10-07-2025
- Yahoo
Prompted by 'political threats,' this Iowa nonprofit that supports immigrants has closed
A local nonprofit is closing its doors after 13 years supporting immigrants in eastern Iowa, citing "political threats" and internal divisiveness. The Center for Worker Justice of Eastern Iowa first opened in 2012 in Iowa City, helping low-wage and immigrant workers understand their rights, win wage theft disputes and promote social and economic justice. The organization's Board of Directors announced its closure in a Facebook post on Wednesday, July 9. "We came to this decision in response to severe external political threats and irreconcilable divisions within the organization," the post said. The Center for Worker Justice announced in June that their work was "suspended indefinitely" amid strikes within their union staff. The union, Teamsters 238, said the strike began over "unfair labor practices and poor working conditions." The Teamsters wrote that the Center for Work Justice's labor problem was caused by "arrogance and poor management." The striking workers were "demanding to fire the executive director" and wanted additional control in the hiring of a new executive director, CWJ said in June. More: Advocates: Iowa man given 30 days to gather his items, say goodbye before deportation The Board of Directors' post didn't specifically say whether the strike inspired the closure. "Today, the exclusions in our laws are growing, the threats to immigrants and organizations like ours are unprecedented, and funding sources are diminishing," the organization wrote. "Meanwhile, over the past several months, internal divisions have paralyzed our ability to respond to external threats and intensified the risks our vulnerable activists already face." The Center for Worker Justice reflected on several successes over its 13 years in the Iowa City area. The organization offered free workshops on the English language, computer skills, tenants' rights, sewing, immigration and more. The center said it helped workers recover more than $250,000 in lost wages. More: Gowrie man guilty in killing of teen that rocked rural Iowa community The Center for Worker Justice also helped residents of Forest View and Rose Oaks find new housing when investors unexpectedly told them that they couldn't renew their leases. The Center distributed "hundreds of thousands" of dollars in aid during the Pandemic, primarily to non-English speakers and others who struggled to apply. Board member Loxi Hopkins said she felt "privileged" to work alongside "the immigrants and refugees that were the driving force behind this organization." 'At a time when some are disparaging immigrants, CWJ has been a vehicle for the caring strength of immigrant leaders who have improved our entire region," Hopkins said in a statement. "I am proud to have been part of the advisory committee envisioning what CWJ might become to seeing all that was accomplished through the years. I am so grateful to have been able to be a part of this.' More: Inside this Iowa distillery's path to becoming a refuge for veterans nationwide The Center for Worker Justice was not without some controversy. In 2022, The Gazette reported that the organization had missed filing deadlines with the IRS in 2018, 2019 and 2020 and was ordered to pay $20,000 in fines. The nonprofit also briefly lost its tax-exempt status. The organization announced that it secured a new three-year contract in March that provided its employees with raises, health insurance at "no cost," a retirement plan, and paid time off. The Teamsters union went on strike in June, "demanding to fire the executive director," with a goal of "renegotiating" the new contract. Ryan Hansen covers local government and crime for the Press-Citizen. He can be reached at rhansen@ or on X, formerly known as Twitter, @ryanhansen01. This article originally appeared on Iowa City Press-Citizen: Center for Worker Justice closes after 13 years of serving immigrants
