Skip to content
Search

Latest Stories

No bowling this maiden over: Bangladesh star hits critics for six

One of Bangladesh's top women cricketers has hit critics for six after being accused of disrespecting national culture by posing for photos in full wedding attire... and a bat.

Pictures of Sanjida Islam wielding a cricket bat while dressed in an orange sari and wearing dozens of bangles went viral after she posted them on social media last week.


The International Cricket Council -- the sport's governing body -- retweeted the pictures to hundreds of thousands of worldwide followers with a tick against a wedding-ceremony checklist reading: "Dress, jewellery, cricket bat."

But some in her Muslim-majority home country said she had gone too far.

"There is nothing in her that an Islamic society can follow," said one on Facebook.

Others called for "strict punishment".

Most people, however, loved the impromptu photoshoot.

"I did not plan to pose with a bat," said Sanjida, who went to the stadium with groom Mim Mosaddeak -- who plays for Rangpur in the Bangladesh championship -- the day before their formal vows.

"I saw some kids playing; I just could not resist ... my teammates captured the moment beautifully.

"I shared the photos casually on Facebook and Instagram. I had no idea they would go viral," she told AFP.

Fans of Sanjida, who has played 16 one-day internationals and 54 Twenty20 internationals for Bangladesh, agreed with the star cricketer.

"This photo reflects true progressive Bangladesh," said one on social media.

More For You

Why local elections victory raises the stakes for Reform

Nigel Farage celebrates his party’s narrow win in the Runcorn & Helsby by-election last week

Why local elections victory raises the stakes for Reform

AS A turquoise tsunami broke across the county councils of England, sweeping the Conservatives out of local power everywhere, Nigel Farage – rather than Sir Keir Starmer or Kemi Badenoch – is clearly making the British political weather.

The political future has rarely seemed so unpredictable. Yet there were several precedented echoes of past Farage breakthroughs too.

Keep ReadingShow less
FTA ‘will elevate India to be Britain’s most trusted partner’

Sir Keir Starmer and Narendra Modi during their meeting in November 2024

FTA ‘will elevate India to be Britain’s most trusted partner’

WHAT does the Free Trade Agreement (FTA), welcomed on Tuesday (6) by the British and Indian prime ministers, Sir Keir Starmer and Narendra Modi, mean for Eastern Eye readers?

The FTA certainly opens up many more opportunities for British Indian businessmen (and women).

Keep ReadingShow less
10 india pakistan war movies

Iconic films that capture the intensity of India Pakistan tensions through gripping stories and unforgettable characters

Youtube

10 movies on India-Pakistan tensions that will keep you hooked

War isn’t just about bullets and borders. It’s about the people caught in the crossfire, the unsung heroes, and the emotions that rage louder than artillery. Cinema has a way of turning history into heartbeats, making us feel the weight of every decision, every sacrifice, and every moment of defiance.

In the current political scenario when it comes to India and Pakistan, the tension isn’t just political: it’s personal, visceral, and deeply human. These 10 films don’t just show the conflict; they make you live and feel it.

Keep ReadingShow less
Rohit-Sharma-Getty

Rohit played 67 Test matches, scoring 4,301 runs with an average of over 40. (Photo: Getty Images)

Getty Images

Rohit Sharma announces retirement from Test cricket ahead of England tour

INDIA captain Rohit Sharma on Wednesday announced his retirement from Test cricket ahead of the team's tour of England starting next month. He will continue to play in the 50-over format.

Rohit played 67 Test matches, scoring 4,301 runs with an average of over 40. His record includes 12 centuries, with a highest score of 212 against South Africa in 2019.

Keep ReadingShow less
Best canal routes

Scenic summer experience

Getty

10 best canal holidays in Britain for summer 2025

With record numbers choosing narrowboats over airports, canal holidays are enjoying a resurgence in Britain. Whether it's a leisurely week along the Llangollen or a weekend loop through the Midlands, the UK’s canal network offers a peaceful, scenic alternative to crowded beaches or city breaks. Here are 10 of the best canal routes to explore this summer.

1. Llangollen Canal, Wales to Shropshire


This picturesque route winds from Llangollen in Wales to the English market town of Whitchurch. The highlight is the spectacular Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where boats cross a 38-metre-high cast-iron trough. Along the way, travellers pass through verdant countryside, charming villages, and the Horseshoe Falls. It’s one of the most photographed waterways in Britain.

Keep ReadingShow less