Page 15 – THE LOCAL REPORT ARTICLES

Formula 1: Formula 1 cancels Bahrain and Saudi Arabian grands prix due to tensions in Middle East; season cut to 22 races | World News

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March 15, 2026

Formula 1: Formula 1 cancels Bahrain and Saudi Arabian grands prix due to tensions in Middle East; season cut to 22 races | World News

Formula 1 cancels Bahrain and Saudi Arabian grands prix due to Middle East tensions; season cut to 22 races

Tensions in the Middle East force F1 to cancel races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, leaving a five-week gap in the season / Picture: File

In a bid to reshape the 2026 season, Formula 1 and the FIA officially announced on Sunday 15 March 2026 that the upcoming Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grand Prix will not take place in April this year.^{The decision was taken in the early hours before the Chinese Grand Prix in Shanghai and was a response to the escalating conflict in the Middle East. While the sport prides itself on a “show must go on” mentality, the safety of the ten teams, thousands of staff and millions of fans absolutely takes precedence over the checkered flag.}

Middle East conflict forces F1 to cancel grand prix

The Bahrain Grand Prix is scheduled to take place at the Sakhir Circuit on April 12, followed by the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix in Jeddah on April 19, with both races traditionally being night races under floodlights.FIA president Mohammed bin Sulayem said the organization must prioritize the well-being of everyone involved in the championship, stressing that safety remains a top priority.The news comes ahead of the Chinese Grand Prix weekend in Shanghai, ending weeks of speculation over whether the race could go ahead amid growing instability in the region.

Why was the match between Bahrain and Saudi Arabia canceled?

The cancellations are directly related to the widening conflict with Iran and U.S. and Israeli military actions that have prompted retaliatory attacks in parts of the Middle East. Security risks and regional instability have made it impossible for Formula One to ensure the event can be held safely.Logistical challenges also play a role. Formula 1 races require large quantities of cars, equipment and broadcast equipment to be shipped weeks in advance. As airport disruptions and security concerns mount, transporting necessary cargo to the region becomes increasingly difficult.Officials also considered the possibility of changing venues in April, but ultimately decided it was not feasible to rearrange the schedule on such short notice.

impact on 2026 F1 season schedule

The 2026 Formula 1 schedule has been reduced from 24 to 22 races with the cancellation of two races in the Middle East.The decision also leaves a rare five-week gap in the schedule:

Japanese Grand Prix – March 29
Next race: Miami Grand Prix – May 3

The unexpected disruption could give teams extra time to upgrade their cars, which will be particularly important for 2026 as the sport introduces significant technical regulation changes. Other support series scheduled to coincide with the race – including Formula 2, Formula 3 and the F1 Academy – have also been cancelled.

What happens to fans who buy F1 tickets?

Formula 1 organizers said fans who purchased tickets in advance for canceled races will be contacted directly by event organizers to inquire about refunds and other options. Tickets for the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grand Prix went on sale months ago, with many international fans planning to go around the April race weekends. Local event organizers are expected to offer full refunds or possible ticket transfer options based on policies set by organizers and ticketing platforms. Fans are advised to follow official communications from event organizers and official Formula 1 channels for the latest news. Travel plans such as independently booked hotels and flights may need to be managed directly with airlines and accommodation providers.

What does F1 have to say about future races?

Formula 1 leadership stressed that Bahrain and Saudi Arabia remain important partners to the sport and expressed hope that racing will return to both venues once the situation stabilizes.F1 chief executive Stefano Domenicali admitted the decision was difficult but inevitable given the current situation in the region. Officials also thanked local organizers for their cooperation and understanding.While the race will not take place in April, the FIA has not completely ruled out the possibility of future races once the geopolitical situation improves.

First T20I live: New Zealand selects vs South Africa

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First T20I live: New Zealand selects vs South Africa

New Zealand vs South Africa Live Score, 1st T20I: New Zealand won the toss and chose to play South Africa in the first T20I, with both teams fielding several new faces in the playing squad. This game is also the first appearance of both sides, marking the two sides entering a new stage.

New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner said he was delighted to be part of the series and looked forward to some intense cricket between the two teams.

“This is part of a great series. We know South Africa are a great team and have played great games over the last few years. It’s always good to play in front of another great crowd in New Zealand. (The conditions) are looking good and maybe it’ll start slow and Cash will be really happy with that. That’s what we’re going to do with the bat, start seeing how the pitch performs. Go out and run some laps,” Santner said after the delivery.

South Africa captain Keshav Maharaj admitted the disappointment of their previous semi-final exit still lingered but stressed the team was looking to the future with a young squad.

“(The semi-final) is disappointing. We have a new squad, fresh faces. Hopefully the young guys in our environment can shine on the field today,” Maharaj said.

The match also saw New Zealand hand Nick Kelly his T20I debut, while South Africa brought in four players to make their international debuts: Connor Esterhuizen, Jordan Hermann, Dian Forrester and Nqobani Mokoena.

team:

South Africa (XI): Connor Esterhuizen (w), Jordan Hermann, Tony de Zorzi, Rubin Hermann, Jason Smith, Dian Forrester, George Linde, Gerald Coetzee, Keshav Maharaj (c).

New Zealand (Starting XI): Devin Conway, Tom Latham (female), Tim Robinson, Nick Kelly, Bvon Jacobs, James Neesham, Mitchell Santner (centre), Zachary Fox, Cole McConchie, Kyle Jamieson, Ben Sears.

Navy warships monitor ships bound for India in Strait of Hormuz

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Navy warships monitor ships bound for India in Strait of Hormuz

As part of the ongoing Operation Sankalp, Indian Navy warships deployed in the Gulf are conducting continuous vigilance on cargo ships bound for India in the Strait of Hormuz.A source confirmed to TOI that “a warship deployed in the area (off the coast of Oman) is still monitoring the situation and keeping a close watch on cargo ships bound for India.”

Indian Navy warships on standby near Persian Gulf to assist Hormuz ships in West Asia war

Under the watchful eye of the Indian Navy, two Indian-flagged LPG tankers “Shivalik” and “Nanda Devi” owned by the Shipping Corporation of India (SCI) have successfully passed through the Strait of Hormuz and are currently heading to India. Another Indian-flagged oil tanker, the Jag Prakash, carrying gasoline from Oman to Africa, has also set sail from the east of the Strait of Hormuz.The Shivalik is being escorted by the Indian Navy, an agency report citing government sources said.

On June 19, 2019, the Indian Navy launched a maritime security operation called “Operation Sankalp” in the Gulf region to ensure the safe passage of Indian flag vessels through the Strait of Hormuz. This is done in close coordination with all stakeholders including the Ministry of Defence, Ministry of External Affairs, Ministry of Shipping, Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas and DG Shipping. Subsequently, the navy deployed a total of 23 warships to take turns heading to the Gulf of Oman and the Persian Gulf. Some of these warships are still deployed in the Gulf.The naval deployment is significant at a time of rising tensions across the Gulf, with as many as 23,000 Indian seafarers employed on different types of vessels, including merchant vessels and offshore installations, as well as 24 vessels near the Strait of Hormuz.Iran’s ambassador to India Mohammad Fatali said on Friday that India would soon be able to safely pass (for its ships) through the Strait of Hormuz.Meanwhile, the Indian Navy’s sailing training ship INS Sudarshini has arrived at the historic port of Valletta in Malta, marking an important milestone in its landmark trans-oceanic expedition Lokayan-26, the Indian Defense Ministry said in a statement. The ship arrived in Valletta on March 12, highlighting the deep-rooted maritime ties between India and Malta. The visit is an important stop on the ship’s ambitious 22,000-nautical-mile global voyage. Previously, the ship successfully passed through the Suez Canal and recently docked in Alexandria. INS Sudarshini set off from Kochi on January 20 and is currently in the second month of its voyage.

Can you claim a tax refund from a deceased person? What the IRS says

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Can you claim a tax refund from a deceased person? What the IRS says

Dealing with taxes after the death of a loved one can be complicated, especially if a refund may still be owed. according to IRS (IRS), certain individuals can claim refunds from deceased taxpayers, but specific rules determine who qualifies and how a final tax return is filed.

If a decedent needs a refund after filing a final tax return, the amount will generally be paid to the surviving spouse filing a joint return, the IRS said. (AFP Getty Images)

The IRS requires final individual income tax returns to be filed for people who die during the tax year, NewsNation reports. The return must include all income earned up to the date of death, as well as any credits and deductions to which the individual is entitled.

Who can receive a refund?

If the deceased was owed money after the last refund tax return After filing, the IRS says the payment will generally be made to the surviving spouse who files the return jointly.

If there is no surviving spouse filing a joint return, the refund may be issued to the court-appointed personal representative of the decedent’s estate or other legally designated representative.

Also read: IRS releases big update on Trump accounts: Here’s how to sign up for $1,000 pilot program

“The filing requirements applicable to the individual will determine whether the personal representative must prepare the final individual income tax return for the decedent,” the IRS said.

The agency also noted that the accounting method used by the decedent, such as cash or accrual accounting, helps determine what income and deductions must be included on the final return.

Do I need to submit a death certificate?

According to the U.S. Internal Revenue Service (IRS), death certificate Generally there is no need to send it with the return. However, the filing should clearly state that the taxpayer has died.

The IRS advises: “On the final tax return, the surviving spouse or representative should indicate that the person is deceased.”

Also read: IRS update: When will the $8,046 tax refund be deposited? Possible reasons for delay

Are funeral expenses tax deductible?

Another question families often ask is whether funeral expenses are tax deductible.

The tax guide cited by TurboTax says funeral expenses are not deductible on an individual income tax return because the IRS does not classify them as medical expenses.

“While the IRS allows a deduction for medical expenses, funeral expenses are not included,” TurboTax explains, noting that qualified medical expenses must be used to prevent or treat a medical disease or condition.

However, if the funeral expenses were paid out of the deceased’s estate, they may be deducted if the estate itself is taxable.

Tendulkar on Eden 2001: Laxman-Dravid magic and his ‘out of the box’ mantras

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Tendulkar on Eden 2001: Laxman-Dravid magic and his ‘out of the box’ mantras

Sachin Tendulkar on Eden 2001: Steve Waugh's mighty Australian, Laxman-Dravid magic and his 'out of the box' mantra

India pulled off one of Test cricket’s greatest comebacks at the Eden Gardens in 2001 (Image: X)

Twenty-five years after India pulled off one of Test cricket’s greatest comebacks at the Eden Gardens in 2001, the legend Sachin Tendulkar Relive the drama of that unforgettable match against Australia. In this interview, the batsman reflects on the buzz around Steve WaughSeemingly invincible, belief in the dressing room after Mumbai’s crushing defeat, and Pipe Laxman and Rahul DravidAn epic partnership. Tendulkar also recalled his unexpected performance on the final day when his “out of the box” bowling helped break Australia’s resistance. He explains how that famous win transformed India’s confidence and why the Eden Test remains one of the greatest wins of his career.There was already some buzz before that series even came out, wasn’t it? Australia lands here after winning 15 consecutive Tests.

Exclusive: Rahul Dravid on Eden Gardens’ iconic win over Australia in 2001

Yes, there was a lot of buzz before Australia got to India because they beat everyone convincingly. I was in Pune for the West Zone Duleep Trophy match against East Zone. The media asked me if I thought we could beat Australia. My answer is yes. I say that because they were never in a stressful situation. So if we can put them in a stressful situation, we need to see how they react.Did you prepare differently for this series?Nothing specific. I just kept everything normal because I was playing well and I was scoring runs in the Duleep Trophy. I’m in a good mood. In fact, in the first test at Wankhede, I scored 76 and 67 points.Despite your contribution in Mumbai, the team lost within three days. How did you feel when traveling to Kolkata?As we head to Kolkata, the team is determined to fight back. Losing a game in a three-game series is never a good feeling. So, we are all ready and determined to win that Test, go to Chennai and lock them in there. But our first game was not good. But I remember VVS Laxman scored 59 runs.Tell us how you watched Laxman and Dravid work together in the dressing room, especially on day four.Since VVS batted well in the first innings, coach John Wright, captain Sourav Ganguly and several seniors in the dressing room decided that he should bat at No. 3 in the second innings. VVS batted really well and so did Rahul. Day 4 was a special day for us. From where we set out in the morning to where we arrived in the evening, everything changed. The thought process is different and there is excitement in the air. We felt that if we could score a quick score on the fifth morning and get Australia into it and see how the Australians approach all the games, we knew they would go for the total and play aggressively. That’s how it happened.What’s so special about this collaboration?It’s easy to go out and have a great game and then go back to the locker room. But time is also of the essence in the Garden of Eden. If we could score quickly and give Australia time, I don’t know if it would have worked. In addition to building a big total, occupying the crease is also important. Therefore, they occupy the crease for long periods of time. Long batting requires more than just physical stamina; It’s also about mental capacity, how long you can focus without giving them a chance. I thought the way they both hit the ball was just amazing. We’ve reached the point where there can only be one winner. I said it before the series started, it will be great to see how Australia respond under pressure. Then there’s Rahul, VVS and Harbhajan, all three of whom have contributed to India’s success on day five. From that point on, we started capitalizing.

Take us back to day five, the final meeting. Sourav Ganguly takes you inside the bowling alley. Is it just to change the purpose? Watching a series of events on YouTube today, did he say “that’s all”? You ended up bowling 11 balls and picking up three important wickets.Harbhajan bowled extremely well. However, for some reason we had a hard time picking wickets for a while. When you bring a team into more than two meetings, you can’t expect them to leave easily. If a pair plays for a while, you feel a partnership is building, but the results are not going to be in our favour. We have to pick wickets often. I remember Sourav asking me, “Why don’t you bowl from this end?” I have also seen the video of Sourav talking to me. But it was never about just playing one game. In Test cricket during that period and the matches before that, I bowled regularly and would provide the odd breakthrough on a regular basis. I bowled from the pavilion end and got two crucial wickets.Usually, you bowl leg to right-handers and spin to left-handers, especially in white-ball cricket. But Matthew Hayden and Adam Gilchrist are two attacking left-handers with full length legs. What’s the idea behind this?Yes, these two were actually responsible for Australia beating us in the first Test because they had a great partnership and scored hundreds. I managed to bail them both out as LBW tried to sweep but missed.That’s great for Vaughn. If I had to choose, it would be a champion with long legs like him. But you covered it up perfectly. When did you think of bowling?I have always believed that when someone like me starts bowling, I should keep trying and not be predicted. I should be doing different things, outside the box, rather than being an average bowler. I’ve always believed in catching the batsman off guard. Warney’s door is a prize door to me. I don’t think he chose me, nor did he anticipate the amount of attention I would get from my Google. Badji bowled really well. We just need someone to support him. We are working hard, but things are not going in our favor. But those three wickets helped us get back on track and end the game with a win.What impact does the victory at Eden Gardens have on Indian cricket?Our confidence index soared. When we went to Chennai, even though it was a new game, we felt like we had the upper hand. We feel like 70% of this collection belongs to us. And, even though Hayden was incredible in that series, we managed to score a total in the first innings and put the pressure on Australia again. Thanks again to Budge there, he picked a lot of wickets. Rahul and I both scored again. I scored a hundred and we won the series. Victories like the one we had at Eden make a huge difference. There is no medicine like victory. It is a tonic that energizes you. Memories stay with you forever. But it also helps the next generation. You know, when the younger generation watches us play on TV, they’re inspired.Among the many great wins in your career, where would you rank the Eden win?In top wins. If you had any victory anywhere in the world, Eden Gardens 2001 would be talked about and will always be talked about.

The remains of the sailor are expected to return to China next week

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The remains of the sailor are expected to return to China next week

Mumbai: India’s Director General of Shipping, in coordination with the MEA and the Indian Embassy in Baghdad, has initiated the process of repatriating the body of 54-year-old Mumbai resident Deonandan Prasad Singh, reported V Narayan. Sources told TOI on Saturday that the bodies could be brought home once airspace opens next week. “Singh’s body will be flown back along with the 16 rescued Indian crew members once the airspace opens,” a source at the DG Shipping office in Mumbai told TOI. “Travel documents and necessary local formalities are currently being processed.”

Hidden tomb unearthed in Luxor contains 22 mummies, rare papyrus scrolls and secrets of ancient Egyptian women | World News

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Hidden tomb unearthed in Luxor contains 22 mummies, rare papyrus scrolls and secrets of ancient Egyptian women | World News

Hidden tomb unearthed in Luxor contains 22 mummies, rare papyrus scrolls and secrets of ancient Egyptian women

Egyptian archaeologists have reportedly made an extraordinary discovery. Recently, a hidden chamber was opened in the desert of Luxor, containing 22 coffins that had not been touched for thousands of years. The coffin was found to be very well preserved, with paintings on it. Some of them were also found to contain mummies. The discovery is said to be important for revealing the lives of ancient women and their role in religious activities.It is believed that this place may have been a center for women who played a role in shaping the spiritual and social life of the people.

Hidden room in Qurna, Luxor reveals carefully stacked coffins and rare mummies

The chamber is located in the Khulna region and is part of the vast Theban necropolis on the west bank of Luxor. It is carved directly into the bedrock and appears to have been used as storage space for coffins brought from old tombs. Experts say the burials were not random.The coffins were carefully stacked in layers, the lids neatly separated. There are ten rows in total. It seemed like whoever organized the event had thought of every detail. Some of the mummies inside are still intact, which is unusual. Often, reburials from this period remain disturbed or damaged.Many of the coffins reportedly belonged to women known as the “Singers of Amun.” The title is more than decorative. These women may have influenced their communities by participating in temple rituals. Experts say this shows a more nuanced picture of the spiritual and social aspects of ancient Egyptian women. Dr Zawi Hawass, who is overseeing the excavations, said the discovery could change our understanding of the role of women in Egyptian society. Some coffins have professional titles on them that can provide clues as to the identity and status of the person inside. Personal names are rare, but their importance is obvious.

Rare papyrus scroll Ancient artifacts reveal secrets of Luxor tomb

In addition to the coffins, archaeologists also discovered rare papyrus scrolls sealed in ceramic vessels with the original clay seal intact. The scrolls are reportedly in good condition and will be restored and translated in the coming months.Delicate and fragile wooden artifacts were also found. Experts say the restoration process is painstaking. Some of the wood is brittle and the paint is peeling. Careful cleaning is taking place to preserve color and pattern. It seems like every object tells a story waiting to be deciphered by historians.Even small details, such as the way a lid is stacked or a piece of wood is carved, can give us a glimpse into ancient life.

Egypt’s hidden treasures offer rare glimpse into ancient life

Egypt’s Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Sharif Fati called the find “a new addition to the record of outstanding discoveries.” Egypt still seems to hold secrets hidden beneath the desert.For now, the coffins and scrolls will still be carefully studied. But they have given a rare look at rituals, roles and lives that disappeared thousands of years ago.

New York Hospital Bomb Threat Hoax: What Happened at Memorial Sloan Kettering Hospital? Former employee arrested

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March 15, 2026

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New York Hospital Bomb Threat Hoax: What Happened at Memorial Sloan Kettering Hospital? Former employee arrested

a former employee Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center Saturday on suspicion of walking into manhattan The hospital also claimed he had a bomb in his bag, prompting a massive police response before authorities determined the threat was a hoax.

NYPD officers responded to the situation and the department's bomb squad was dispatched to inspect the suspicious device. (AFP via Getty Images) — NYPD officers responded to the situation and the department’s bomb squad was dispatched to inspect the suspicious device. (AFP via Getty Images)

Police sources told the New York Post that the man entered the hospital’s campus on York Avenue on the Upper East Side shortly after noon and began acting strangely.

Making threats in the hospital

According to law enforcement sources, the incident occurred around 12:05 p.m. when the former staff member arrived at the facility and told people nearby, “I have a bomb in my bag.”

The shocking announcement sparked safety concerns at the hospital, one of the nation’s leading cancer treatment and research centers. Authorities were alerted and emergency crews were dispatched to the scene.

Also read: Mamdani bomb threat: Mayor slams ‘white supremacist’ Jack Long; social media says, ‘He didn’t…’

Officials described the man as an emotionally disturbed individual, but no further details about his identity or his previous role at the hospital were immediately released.

The bomb squad was called in to investigate

officials from New York City Police Department In response to the situation, the department’s bomb squad was dispatched to inspect the suspicious device.

Investigators ultimately determined the threat was not real. Police sources said the man was not carrying an explosive device but had a cement statue in his bag.

An inspection of the bag found no explosives, and authorities concluded the bomb claim was a hoax.

The suspect has been detained

After investigation, the man has been sent to hospital for detention. Officials have not confirmed what charges he may face.

Also read: Suspicious package at Trump Tower: What happens in Manhattan after NYPD clears threat? everything we know

The incident caused panic in New York City’s busy medical center, although authorities did not immediately say whether hospital operations were disrupted during the response.

As of Saturday evening, police had not released additional information about the suspect or the circumstances leading up to the bomb threat charges.

EC may announce assembly poll schedule for five states

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EC may announce assembly poll schedule for five states

New Delhi: The Election Commission is expected to announce the schedule for assembly elections in five states and Union Territories – West Bengal, Assam, Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Puducherry – at a press conference at 4 pm today, news agency ANI reported.The date coincides with the deadline for appeals against West Bengal’s final electoral list, which was released on February 28 with over 6.4 crore voters on the list.The window for Assam, Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Puducherry to appeal against the final roll has closed. It is expected that the upcoming elections may involve fewer phases than in 2021, when West Bengal voted in eight phases, Assam in three phases and Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Puducherry in one phase.

polling

Do you think increased deployment of central forces will enhance electoral security in West Bengal?

To hold elections within a shorter period of time, the Election Commission is expected to significantly increase deployment of central forces, especially in West Bengal. Reports suggest that the total strength of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) may exceed the 1,500 companies (approximately 1.40 lakh personnel) deployed for the 2024 Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections. About 500 companies (45,000 personnel) have been deployed in West Bengal.West Bengal and Assam are expected to go to multi-phase polls, while Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Puducherry are likely to go to single-phase polls. As the term of the West Bengal Assembly is set to expire on May 7, polling in the state is likely to continue from April to early May.The Election Commission will also continue to adjudicate around 6 million “suspicious” voter cases in West Bengal, to be handled by judicial officers appointed by the Calcutta High Court, with the possibility of further appeals to the courts. Following the directions of the Chief Justice of the Calcutta High Court, a supplementary electorate list containing sanctioned cases will be released.Meanwhile, the Election Commission has issued a notification for appointment of election officers for all 294 West Bengal constituencies after the state government agreed to provide officials with necessary qualifications. The committee will closely monitor the deployment and random assignment of CAPF and state police personnel through special observers and CAPF nodal officers.

Video shows US-made launcher launching missile from Bahrain

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March 15, 2026

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Video shows US-made launcher launching missile from Bahrain

A video verified by The New York Times showed ballistic missiles being fired from Bahrain in the direction of Iran, appearing to be the first confirmed attack on the Islamic Republic from a Persian Gulf country since the war began. Bahrain is home to the U.S. Navy’s Fifth Fleet. It was not clear from the video alone whether the U.S. or Bahraini military launched the missile. Defense experts who have viewed the video said at least one of the missiles was launched by U.S.-made equipment. The Bahraini government told The Times that its troops were “not involved in any offensive operations.”

The situation escalated significantly: The United States “destroyed” military targets on Khag Island and crossed Iran’s “red line”