ENGLAND captain Joe Root on Monday (2) said his players will not be shaking hands on their tour of Sri Lanka in a bid to avoid the coronavirus.
Root was quizzed on the coronavirus on Monday as England prepared to depart for their two-Test tour.
The Yorkshire batsman said instead of shaking hands, England players will greet each other with fist bumps.
England were hit by a series of gastroenteritis and flu problems before and during the first Test on their recent tour of South Africa.
"After the illnesses that swept through the squad in South Africa, we are well aware of the importance of keeping contact to a minimum and we've been given some really sound and sensible advice from our medical team to help prevent spreading germs and bacteria," Root said.
"We are not shaking hands with each other, using instead the well-established fist bump, and we are washing hands regularly and wiping down surfaces using the anti-bacterial wipes and gels we've been given in our immunity packs.
"There is no suggestion that the tour will be affected, but of course it is an evolving situation so we are in regular contact with the authorities and will proceed as advised, but at this stage we fully expect the tour to continue as planned."
England will play the first of two practice games against a Sri Lanka Board Presidents XI in Katunayake on Saturday ahead of the Tests, which will form part of the ICC World Test Championship.
England won 3-0 in Sri Lanka two years ago but Root is expecting a tougher challenge this time.
"The conditions will be a bit different with the time of year we are going this time," he said.
"The three games we played out there last time were all very close with less than 60 runs between the teams in the last two Tests.
"It was an exceptional performance last time and I think we can take a lot of confidence from that in terms of how to play out there.
"We respect how good a side they are in their own conditions and we'll find ourselves up against a stiff challenge."
Nintendo has revealed fresh gameplay details for Donkey Kong Bananza, the upcoming 3D platformer set to release exclusively on Nintendo Switch 2 on 17 July 2025. A key highlight is the inclusion of Super Mario Odyssey's Pauline as Donkey Kong's new sidekick.
Pauline, appearing in a younger form, was previously leaked and then quickly removed from Nintendo platforms. Her confirmed appearance in the game marks a significant crossover within the Nintendo universe, though her exact link to the Kong storyline remains unclear.
New abilities and co-op gameplay
In Donkey Kong Bananza, Pauline supports DK using her musical talents. Her singing enables Donkey Kong to transform into various creatures, including a charging zebra and a flying ostrich capable of dropping egg bombs. Pauline is also a playable character in local co-op mode, with her vocals becoming aimable explosive blasts through Joy-Con controls.
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Co-op functionality is further enhanced by GameShare, allowing players to join in on multiple Switch consoles without each player needing a separate copy of the game.
Environmental interaction and creative features
Among the new gameplay elements is the ability for Donkey Kong to skate across chunks of the environment he pulls from the ground. These pieces can be combined to form new structures such as bridges, adding a level of creative problem-solving to the gameplay.
A separate feature, called DK Artist, allows players to shape stone into decorative statues using the game’s destruction-based mechanics, adding a creative dimension to the platformer.
Classic characters and mini-games
Several familiar faces from the franchise make a return. Cranky Kong and Rambi the Rhino have been spotted in gameplay footage, while Nintendo has confirmed appearances by Diddy Kong and Dixie Kong in a racing mini-game. Their broader roles in the main game are yet to be detailed.
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The game also features a refreshed version of the iconic DK Rap from Donkey Kong 64. It is not yet confirmed whether original composer Grant Kirkhope, who was previously omitted from The Super Mario Bros. Movie credits, will be credited for the new version.
Development and amiibo details
While speculation has suggested the involvement of the Super Mario Odyssey team in developing Donkey Kong Bananza, Nintendo has not confirmed which internal studio is responsible for the title. Pauline's inclusion has further fuelled those rumours.
Nintendo has also announced a new amiibo figure featuring Donkey Kong and Pauline, launching alongside the game. This figure unlocks an exclusive costume for Pauline early in the game. Additionally, existing amiibo figures will work with Bananza, spawning helpful materials during gameplay.
IGN, in a hands-on preview, called the game "one of the most gorgeous Nintendo games" seen to date, praising its vibrant environments and expressive character animations. The preview noted how Bananza takes full advantage of the improved capabilities of the Nintendo Switch 2 hardware.
Donkey Kong Bananza is scheduled to launch on 17 July 2025, exclusively for Nintendo Switch 2.
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Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have recently announced their retirements from Test cricket. (Photo: Getty Images)
INDIA will miss Virat Kohli more than Rohit Sharma in the upcoming Test series against England, according to former England captain Geoffrey Boycott. Kohli and Rohit’s recent retirement from the format will affect India’s chances in the five-match series starting Friday, he said.
The two teams begin their new World Test Championship (WTC) cycle with this series, which will be played over six weeks.
“The retirement of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma hurts the chances of India beating England. Kohli is the biggest loss as he has been their best batsman and talisman in all three formats,” Boycott wrote in his column for the Daily Telegraph.
“With so much international cricket played by India, and so little rest, it takes its toll and the mind becomes fatigued.”
'Kohli won’t be easy to replace'
Boycott called Kohli’s exit a bigger loss, saying mental freshness is key in Test cricket.
“It does not matter how much talent or experience you have, if you are not mentally fresh and up for the challenge then it becomes draining.
“Rohit was a superb batsman. At his best, a beautiful stroke player, but he won't be missed as much as Kohli because his Test record was good rather than exceptional. In the last couple of years his batting was a little inconsistent, which was not surprising in his late 30s.
“Rohit was never a natural athlete like Kohli and he knows that opening the innings in England can be pretty tough because the new ball moves around more. You really have to be up for the challenge to have any chance of success.
“I just think that over time the wear and tear of opening the innings and being captain in all three formats wore him down,” Boycott wrote.
'England need to control Bazball'
Kohli and Rohit announced their retirement from Test cricket last month. Shubman Gill has since been appointed captain in Rohit’s place. India last won a Test series in England in 2007. England are coming into the series after winning a one-off Test against Zimbabwe at Trent Bridge.
Boycott advised the Ben Stokes-led side to moderate their attacking ‘Bazball’ approach.
“England should beat India if they temper Bazball and use some common sense. At times their cricket has been thrilling and super enjoyable but also reckless batting has lost them Test matches.
“Their only thought should be winning because it is no use telling us how good you are when the last three World Test Championship finals have been played in our country but England have not qualified for any of them. They should be embarrassed. Their aim should be to make the next WTC final.
“The new cycle starts now and somebody needs to get through to the England players that being a winner is better than being known as an entertainer. If you can win and entertain, that is a bonus. At the moment England are like a one-trick-pony.”
'Don’t get complacent'
Boycott also warned England against taking India lightly, even in the absence of their senior players.
“It’s Bazball or Bazball and that is the way we play; take it or leave it. They don’t want to change or learn from their losses. It doesn’t seem to make any difference that so many top class ex-England Test players keep telling them to moderate their batting.
“So please, get your act together, bring your best game and apply some cricket nous,” Boycott wrote.
(With inputs from agencies)
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Radhika Apte stars in BAFTA-nominated Sister Midnight, now available to stream online
BAFTA and BIFA-nominated indie Sister Midnight is now available to stream on major digital platforms, including Altitude.film, Apple TV, Amazon, Sky Store, and Curzon Home Cinema.
Director Karan Kandhari’s first feature arrives with plenty of praise and a striking lead performance by Radhika Apte, whom critics say delivers “an endlessly expressive marvel.” Set in the humid, buzzing heart of Mumbai, the film follows a newly married couple trying and often failing to fit into each other’s worlds within the cramped confines of a one-room home.
Apte plays Uma, a new bride forced into a life she didn’t choose, navigating nosy neighbours, a heat-soaked home, and a clueless husband she barely knows. With little support and mounting frustration, she begins drifting into the unpredictable world of Mumbai’s nights, where street dogs, shadows, and music accompany her search for identity and escape.
Kandhari doesn’t stick to the rules. The film unfolds like a fever dream, part dark comedy, part urban myth. It’s messy, but purposefully so. The chaos mirrors Uma’s journey. The paper-thin walls of her shack aren’t the only things breaking down; so is her idea of who she’s supposed to be.
With a soundtrack as unpredictable as the protagonist, Sister Midnight swings between classic rock, old blues, and raw punk, featuring legends like Howlin’ Wolf, Motörhead, and The Stooges, along with original music by Interpol’s Paul Banks.
Radhika Apte’s raw, magnetic energy grounds the chaos
While the film is full of jagged energy and eccentric moments, Apte’s performance ties it all together. She doesn’t just play Uma, she unravels her, one twitch, glare, and outburst at a time. Critics have called her work here “electrifying” and “oddly poignant.” The film clocks in at 110 minutes and carries a 15 certificate for its edgy themes.
But Sister Midnight is far from just gritty; it’s a rare mix of heart and havoc, offering a glimpse into one woman’s unravelling, with the city of Mumbai acting as both witness and accomplice.
It’s been 26 years since Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam hit the big screen, but Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s rich, emotional tale of love and longing still lingers in the hearts of movie lovers. Starring Salman Khan, Aishwarya Rai, and Ajay Devgn, this film was a cultural moment. Here are five things you may not know about this now-iconic musical drama.
1. KK’s Bollywood debut began with heartbreak
Before he became one of the most beloved voices of the 2000s, singer KK got his big Bollywood break with the heart-wrenching song Tadap Tadap. The track, composed by Ismail Darbar and written by Mehboob, captured the raw ache of lost love, and KK’s soul-stirring vocals made it unforgettable. Few know that Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam was his first major entry into Hindi cinema, thanks to Bhansali's knack for spotting rare talent.
Aishwarya Rai and Salman Khan in a still from Bhansali’s unforgettable love storyInstagram/bhansaliproductions
2. Tadap Tadap still strikes a nerve with heartbroken souls
Even decades later, Tadap Tadap remains a go-to song for anyone nursing heartbreak. Its haunting melody and painful lyrics have earned it a permanent place on every “breakup playlist.” It’s not just a song, it’s a punch to the gut, and Gen X especially holds it close, often revisiting it during nostalgic or emotional moments.
Aishwarya Rai’s performance brought grace and heartbreak in equal measureInstagram/bhansaliproductions
3. It was only Bhansali’s second film
Most directors take a while to find their signature style. Not Sanjay Leela Bhansali. After Khamoshi: The Musical, Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam was only his second directorial project, but it cemented his place as a filmmaker known for blending grand visuals with emotional depth. The film’s cultural textures, sweeping sets, and deep emotions became a Bhansali trademark.
Salman Khan’s raw vulnerability added soul to Bhansali’s tale of longing and lossInstagram/bhansaliproductions
4. It echoed the storytelling of Indian film legends
Many critics at the time drew parallels between Bhansali and classic directors like Guru Dutt, Raj Kapoor, and K. Asif. Like them, Bhansali crafted scenes with intense emotional weight, often using music, silence, and visual flair to convey what words couldn’t.
Ajay Devgn delivered quiet intensity in Bhansali’s emotionally charged love triangleInstagram/bhansaliproductions
5. The music album was a blockbuster on its own
Beyond Tadap Tadap, the film’s soundtrack was packed with gems. From the playful Aankhon Ki Gustakhiyaan to the devotional Albela Sajan, the album was a complete package. Ismail Darbar’s score, paired with poetic lyrics and powerful vocals, played a major role in the film’s emotional impact.
Bhansali’s next film is already making waves
Two and a half decades later, Bhansali remains a force in Indian cinema. His upcoming film Love and War, starring Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, and Vicky Kaushal, is already one of the most anticipated releases. And while Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam remains a fan favourite, expectations are sky-high for his next chapter.
The gambling industry has always been quick to embrace new technology, from the first slot machines to today's live dealer streams. Now, voice-activated casino logins are making waves across the sector. Platforms like Fortunica are exploring how voice recognition might revolutionise player authentication, but the question remains: is this innovation genuinely transformative or simply the latest tech trend?
Voice technology has become increasingly sophisticated, with smart speakers and voice assistants now commonplace in millions of homes. The gambling industry's interest in this technology stems from its potential to streamline user experience while enhancing security measures.
How Voice-Activated Casino Logins Work
Voice-activated authentication systems rely on sophisticated biometric technology that analyses unique vocal characteristics. These systems don't simply recognise words or phrases; they examine the physical properties of your voice, including pitch, tone, rhythm, and breathing patterns.
When you first register with a voice-enabled casino platform, the system creates a unique voiceprint by recording several samples of your speech. This voiceprint becomes your digital signature, stored securely in encrypted databases. During subsequent logins, the system compares your live voice sample against this stored template, granting access only when the match meets predetermined security thresholds.
The technology operates through advanced machine learning algorithms that can distinguish between identical twins and even detect attempts at voice mimicry. Modern systems also incorporate anti-spoofing measures to prevent recordings or synthetic voice generation from compromising security.
The Advantages of Voice Authentication
Voice-activated logins offer several compelling benefits that could genuinely transform the online gambling experience. These advantages extend beyond mere convenience, potentially addressing some of the industry's most persistent challenges.
The primary benefit lies in enhanced security measures. Voice biometrics are incredibly difficult to replicate, making unauthorised access significantly more challenging than traditional password-based systems. Unlike passwords, which can be stolen, shared, or forgotten, your voice remains uniquely yours.
Convenience represents another major advantage. Players no longer need to remember complex passwords or fumble with authentication apps during exciting gaming moments. A simple voice command can grant immediate access, particularly valuable during high-stakes situations where every second counts. Key benefits include:
Enhanced security: Biometric authentication provides superior protection against unauthorised access.
Improved accessibility: Voice commands assist players with visual impairments or mobility challenges.
Faster login times: Eliminates typing delays and password recovery processes.
Reduced fraud: Unique vocal characteristics are nearly impossible to replicate convincingly.
Better user experience: Seamless authentication maintains gaming momentum.
Potential Drawbacks and Concerns
Despite the promising advantages, voice-activated casino logins face several significant challenges that could limit their widespread adoption. Understanding these limitations is crucial for evaluating the technology's true potential.
Environmental factors pose considerable obstacles to reliable voice authentication. Background noise, poor audio quality, or temporary voice changes due to illness can prevent successful logins. Casinos operate in diverse environments, and players might attempt access from noisy locations where voice recognition proves unreliable.
Privacy concerns also weigh heavily on many users' minds. Voice data represents highly personal biometric information, and data breaches could have serious consequences. Players worry about how gambling operators store, protect, and potentially share their vocal signatures.
Technical limitations present additional challenges. Voice recognition systems require substantial computational resources and sophisticated infrastructure. Smaller casino operators might struggle with implementation costs, whilst players need compatible devices and stable internet connections.
Current Industry Implementation
The gambling industry's adoption of voice authentication remains relatively limited, with most operators still evaluating the technology's practical applications. Several major software providers have begun developing voice-enabled solutions, though widespread deployment hasn't yet materialised.
Current implementations focus primarily on premium VIP services and high-roller platforms, where enhanced security justifies additional costs. These pilot programmes help operators understand user preferences and identify potential technical issues before broader rollouts.
The following table illustrates different implementation approaches across the industry:
Implementation Type
Target Audience
Primary Benefits
Current Status
VIP Services
High-value players
Enhanced security, premium experience
Limited deployment
Mobile Apps
Tech-savvy users
Convenience, quick access
Development phase
Live Dealer Games
Interactive players
Seamless authentication
Testing stage
Customer Support
All players
Identity verification
Early adoption
The Future of Voice Technology in Gambling
Looking ahead, voice-activated authentication appears poised for gradual expansion rather than immediate industry-wide adoption. Several factors will influence the technology's trajectory over the coming years.
Technological improvements continue to advance voice recognition accuracy and reliability. Machine learning algorithms become more sophisticated while hardware costs decrease, making implementation more feasible for smaller operators. Integration with existing security systems also improves, offering comprehensive protection without completely overhauling the current infrastructure.
Regulatory developments will significantly impact adoption rates. Gambling authorities must establish clear guidelines regarding biometric data collection, storage, and usage. Player protection requirements may either accelerate adoption through mandated security improvements or slow progress through stringent compliance demands.
Consumer acceptance remains the ultimate determining factor. Younger demographics generally embrace new technology more readily, whilst older players might prefer familiar authentication methods. Education about security benefits and privacy protections will influence broader acceptance rates.
Revolutionary Potential With Realistic Expectations
Voice-activated casino logins represent genuine innovation with significant potential benefits for both operators and players. Enhanced security, improved accessibility, and streamlined user experiences offer compelling advantages that could reshape online gambling authentication. However, technical challenges, privacy concerns, and implementation costs suggest gradual rather than immediate transformation.
The technology's success will depend on addressing current limitations whilst demonstrating clear value to both operators and players. As voice recognition continues improving and costs decrease, expect broader adoption across the gambling industry. Whether voice authentication becomes standard practice or remains a niche feature will ultimately depend on user acceptance and regulatory support.