Innholdsfortegnelse for 2025-07-18 i Star

Trade union Solidarity warned on Thursday that nearly two-thirds of FlySafair’s pilots were gearing up for a potential strike next week due to their dissatisfaction regarding salary negotiations and mounting frustrations over working conditions. Negotiations have reached a deadlock as FlySafair pilots rejected the proposed a 5.7% salary increase, which will result in the issuance of a strike certificate, granting pilots the right to engage in protected industrial action. The strike certificate gives union members the right to embark on protected strike action following the required 72 hours’ notice to the airline. FlySafair pilots are demanding 10.5% for the next financial year and then 4.5% and 4% respectively for the two years thereafter, Helgard Cronjé, deputy general secretary at Solidarity, said a recent poll revealed that an overwhelming 84% of…

South African Airways (SAA) has declared a loss of R354 million for the 2023/24 financial year while simultaneously announcing a "debt-free, asset-rich balance sheet" that’s poised to support its recovery as a global aviation brand. CEO John Lamola portrayed these results as a snapshot of resilience, highlighting the airline's notable increase in revenue and operational efforts despite external pressures. In the audited financial results reflecting the airline’s second year of operations since its exit from business rescue in April 2021, SAA on Thursday reported that it had generated revenue of R7 billion, a 23% year-on-year increase for the group. However, currency fluctuations and various ‘external’ factors impacted operations, resulting in a net loss of R354m for the year. The group reported a profit of R210m the previous year. The latest…

The automotive sector needs to be carbon neutral and decarbonise with exports going abroad to be competitive. Nedbank and Naacam have done a study to determine carbon readiness in the automotive sector. The survey sought to assess industry awareness of local and global sustainability regulations, the current capacity to measure and reduce carbon emissions and water usage, and the type of support required to meet evolving sustainability expectations. The study 67.9% of respondents indicated that they have some export-related component sales, with EU and UK being the most served export markets. The reliance on particularly European and UK markets is critical to note, as these markets are the most regulated in terms of carbon emission reduction. The study looked at decarbonisation as a business strategy. It asked respondents…

Singapore has shown a keen interest in partnering with South African businesses and State entities, signalling a strategic move to position the continent as a vibrant alternative for investors looking to extend their reach into Asia. This interest coincides with South Africa’s government ramping up structural reforms through Phase 2 of Operation Vulindlela, which aims to modernise key sectors, including electricity, water, transport, and digital communications. The move towards liberalising the economy has opened the door for public-private partnerships (PPPs), allowing State-Owned Enterprises like Eskom and Transnet to explore previously sealed industries for domestic and international collaboration. Recently, Transnet inked a 10-year contract with United Manganese of Kalahari (UMK) for the rail transportation of manganese from its Northern Cape mine to export ports. Additionally, the company has engaged Filipino-based International…

For countless musicians, navigating the financial landscape of the industry is an uphill battle marked by unpredictable income, soaring production costs and a constant pursuit of the next opportunity. Unlike mainstream stars who benefit from big-label backing, expansive marketing budgets and sponsorship deals, many artists, particularly independent ones, shoulder the burden of funding their own careers. It’s no wonder, then, that stories of artists grappling with financial hardship are so common. For every household name, there are thousands of equally gifted musicians fighting to make ends meet. This week, South African musical artist Senior Oat laid bare just how tough things can get. In a heartfelt Facebook post, the Limpopo-born award-winning producer and artist celebrated for his soulful, gospel-infused sound, opened up about his current financial difficulties, moving many of…

Fasten your seatbelts, folks, because the future of relationships is about to get a tech-savvy twist! A viral TikTok video catapults us into the year 2040, painting a picture of what life could look like with AI companions, or as some might call them, "robot husbands". Imagine a world where emotional needs are not just met, but are anticipated with a precision that even the most attentive human partner would envy. In this futuristic video, we meet a woman sitting on her couch, snuggled beside her non-human counterpart, whom she affectionately refers to as her “husband”. With nostalgia, she reflects: "It's just remembering how awful it was being married to a human man. It's so different with you." Gone are the days of having to remind your spouse to tackle…

Dozens of e-hailing drivers gathered outside Uber’s head office in Parktown, Johannesburg, on Tuesday to protest what they describe as unfair practices by major ride-hailing platforms, including Uber and Bolt. The drivers say rising commission rates and falling trip fares have left them earning significantly less despite increasing costs. The protest was led by the E-hailing Partners Council, which says that the financial conditions imposed on drivers have become unsustainable. At the heart of the protest is a growing concern that operators and drivers are being pushed into economic hardship by the very platforms they rely on for work. Council spokesperson Zisco Mnguni said that while ride fares continue to decline, commission rates imposed by companies have increased to levels that are “crippling” drivers financially. “Bolt and Uber are offering…

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has been called to challenge the bail granted to a rapist who was convicted and sentenced to eight years' imprisonment. Rights group Sonke Gender Justice said it was concerned about the convicted rapist, Lulama Elvis Ray Mpahla, receiving bail pending appeal four days after sentencing. Mpahla, an Eastern Cape-based traditional healer from Duncan Village, was arrested for raping a young woman in Kemption Park in 2021. The woman was an initiate under his spiritual mentorship Sonke Gender Justice co-executive director, Bafana Khumalo, said Mpahla lured the young woman into a hotel room ostensibly to talk to her about her training and a message from her ancestors. “In the course of this consultation, he raped her under the guise of facilitating a healing ritual. She was…

Wits University has conferred an honorary Doctor of Commerce degree on football legend and Kaizer Chiefs founder, Kaizer Motaung, in recognition of his lifelong contributions to sport, education, and the upliftment of disadvantaged youth across South Africa. Motaung, a towering figure in South African football, founded Kaizer Chiefs Football Club in 1970 at just 27 years old. Today, 55 years later, the club stands as one of the most successful and beloved teams in the country, and Motaung’s legacy continues to inspire both on and off the pitch. At the graduation ceremony, Wits University Vice-Chancellor and Principal Professor Zeblon Vilakazi praised Motaung’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming a national icon. “Dr Motaung’s life story is a message on its own. He took a chance, he created something, and his…

The Walter and Albertina Sisulu Foundation has issued a bold call for President Cyril Ramaphosa to resign, accusing him of failing to confront the deepening corruption crisis in the country. This comes in the wake of recent allegations involving top police officials and the President’s decision to place Police Minister Senzo Mchunu on special leave. The Foundation reacted strongly to Ramaphosa’s move to establish a judicial commission of inquiry to investigate claims made by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi. Commissioner Mkhwanazi has accused Minister Mchunu and several senior police figures of interfering in ongoing criminal investigations, raising serious concerns about political meddling in law enforcement. In a statement, the Foundation’s chairperson, Dr Allan Boesak, criticised what he described as the President’s lack of decisive leadership in tackling corruption and protecting…

Tshwane Mayor Nasiphi Moya has remained tight-lipped about the ongoing political attacks on City Manager Johann Mettler, despite the DA’s demands for her to clarify her stance on the ANC’s calls for his removal. DA Tshwane caucus leader Cilliers Brink has called on Moya to break her silence on the matter, after writing to her warning that cancelling Mettler’s contract or pressuring him to resign would be unlawful. He claims the ANC’s efforts to oust Mettler stem from his refusal to drop the city’s case against officials involved in a contentious tender awarded to ANC associate Edwin Sodi for refurbishing Rooiwal wastewater treatment plant. “The ANC wants to replace Mettler with a loyalist through cadre deployment,” he said. However, the ANC has denied claims that it intends to deploy its…

"If it ain't broke, don't fix it" That’s certainly how I felt about the Proteas Men’s team. Head coach Shukri Conrad has been responsible for all selections since his appointment and the ICC World Test mace perched splendidly in Cricket SA’s trophy cabinet at their Illovo office is the result. Conrad’s coaching philosophy has fostered an environment where honesty and open communication thrive. Players are able to express themselves with clarity regarding their roles being a cornerstone of the team's culture. Unlike in previous years, where players were often left in the dark following squad announcements, the current setup allows individuals to gauge their standing within the team's future without the fear of unpleasant surprises. This is a refreshing change that strengthens the collective resolve of the squad moving forward.…

World No 1 Scottie Scheffler blamed the wild weather for his wayward driving, but the American still shot a three-under-par 68 in Thursday’s opening round of the British Open to sit one stroke off the early lead. Scheffler, grouped with former Open champions Shane Lowry and Collin Morikawa, was caught in torrential rain midway through his round at Royal Portrush. He managed to hit just three fairways off the tee, but once the skies cleared, he produced two sublime approach shots to birdie the 16th and 17th, ensuring he remained firmly in the hunt for his maiden Claret Jug. “When it’s raining sideways, it’s actually — believe it or not — not that easy to get the ball in the fairway. Thank you guys all for pointing that out,” Scheffler…

In 2001, the Cats rugby team was on a Super 12 tour in Australia. On the rowdy bus trip to a training session, something was said that annoyed Johan Ackermann. When the bus broke out in laughter at the offending remark, Ackermann quietly got up and walked to the front of the bus, took the microphone, and sternly said in Afrikaans: “Make a queue. I don’t want to go looking for anyone.” No one moved and the journey continued in reverent silence. That encapsulates the presence commanded by a giant who was mostly gentle, but not always ... And that reminds me of a Sharks training session I watched in 2005. The forwards were embroiled in a robust mauling session. Suddenly, there was a mighty bellow and from the centre…

Orlando Pirates will raise the curtain on the new South African football season by commencing their MTN8 title defence on Saturday, 2 August, at the iconic Orlando Stadium. Pirates will play against Polokwane City in a scheduled 3pm kick-off at their Soweto fortress. The air will be thick with excitement as Pirates have their sights firmly set on clinching an unprecedented fourth title. Last season, Pirates made history by clinching the MTN8 title for a record third consecutive year, transforming into a formidable force by overcoming Stellenbosch in the final — a stunning 3-1 victory that showcased their resilience after conceding an early goal. Now Pirates are ready to make their mark once again. They have bolstered their squad, welcoming 10 new players, including the much-hyped Oswin Appollis. During an…

Planned acquisition of MCG by Canal+ reveals minimal overlaps between the two entities The Competition Competition said on Thursday that the planned acquisition of MultiChoice Group (MCG) by the French television powerhouse Canal+ has revealed minimal overlaps between the two entities, given their respective market sizes. However, the proposed merger will necessitate a fundamental restructuring to separate the licensed broadcasting unit, which will transition into a standalone entity named LicenseCo. MultiChoice has been struggling to retain subscribers for its pay television platform, DStv, ven as it seeks to expand its digital footprint through investments in online streaming service Showmax. The acquisition by Canal+ is positioned as a revitalising force for MultiChoice, pending final approvals from regulatory bodies and competition authorities. The Tribunal on Thursday heard from the Competition Commission that…

When President Cyril Ramaphosa launched South Africa’s National Dialogue last week, it reignited a powerful hope - that our fractured nation could come together, once again, to chart a shared path forward. The timing could not be more fitting. As we celebrate Mandela Day, we are reminded of Madiba’s unwavering belief that dialogue is the most powerful tool we have to resolve our deepest differences and build a society grounded in dignity, justice, and unity. But to succeed, this dialogue must do more than gather leaders behind closed doors. It must be fully inclusive, reaching every corner of our country and every voice of our society. That’s not just a political imperative - it’s a moral one. From Soccer to Solidarity: The Lessons of 2010 We’ve seen before what unity…

Stocks of cash holding company Trencor plunged by 1.9% to R1.06 per share early on Thursday following an announcement that it has fulfilled the final condition required for its impending delisting on the JSE after 70 years and voluntary winding-up. This news follows prior communications in May, June, and earlier this month, which outlined the company’s plans to gradually cease operations while ensuring shareholders receive their due dividends. Trencor is the latest company to announce it is delisting following AH-Vest’s announcement in June to delist from the JSE’s AltX board at a time when the JSE has undertaken several initiatives to make it easier and less costly for small and medium-sized businesses to list. In 2024, there were about 14 company delistings from the JSE, continuing a multi-year trend of…

Ford dealership owners in South Africa have committed more than R900 million over three years on new and upgraded dealerships, reaffirming the local motor manufacturer’s long-term commitment at a time when other manufacturers may be lowering their presence in the market. Ford Motor Company Africa President, Neale Hill, speaking at the opening of a new multi-brand dealership in Paarden Island, Cape Town on Thursday, said this investment was against the backdrop of great flux and uncertainty in the South African vehicle industry. This as seven local manufacturers were facing growing competition from models imported by a fast increasing number of China and Indian manufacturers, particularly in the under R500 000 vehicle market. Many vehicles exported from South Africa will soon also likely face additional import tariffs in the US -…

Civil organisations have questioned President Cyril Ramaphosa’s silence regarding the controversy surrounding the burial of late former Zambian President Edgar Lungu. The organisations under the banner Progressive Forces For South Africa that include, The South African Concerned Citizens Association, March and March and Reakga Community Project among others laid their concerns bare during a press briefing in Midrand yesterday. A dispute has erupted between the Zambian government and Lungu’s family over whether he should be buried in South Africa or repatriated to Zambia for a state funeral. Lungu died last month in South Africa and his remains have become the centre of a dispute. In the Pretoria High Court, the Zambian government filed an urgent application to prevent Lungu’s burial in South Africa. They argued that as a former president,…

A Pretoria doctor who was found guilty of negligence after he had refused to admit a private patient to the Netcare Unitas Hospital in Centurion, after which the patient was taken to a public hospital where he died the next day, managed to have his name cleared. The Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) conduct committee earlier found him guilty of negligence. He was slapped with a suspension, as well as a fine, which were suspended. However, Dr Norbert Welkovics successfully appealed against the HPCSA’s finding and sanctions against him. The Gauteng High Court, Pretoria, was told that the now-deceased Johannes Phillips arrived by ambulance at Netcare Unitas Hospital on May 19, 2020, after collapsing at home. He complained of shortness of breath, general body weakness, and fatigue. These…

Political analyst Prince Mashele says President Cyril Ramaphosa will be remembered as one of the most ineffectual presidents in post-apartheid South Africa. He predicts that if the president lives long enough, “say he touches 80,” he will die in jail. In an interview on the Sizwe Mpofu-Walsh podcast, Mashele expressed criticism of Ramaphosa, calling him the “criminal in chief” at the head of a “criminal organisation,” namely the African National Congress (ANC). “Cyril Ramaphosa will go down in history as one of the most useless presidents we have had after 1994. And I don’t mince my words, useless. Zuma will go down in history as the most criminal. But let’s park that, we’ve dealt with Zuma many times. There is a criminal organisation, the criminal in chief, it’s president Ramaphosa…

Meta, which owns WhatsApp and Instagram, is due to be hauled before court today to face a possible contempt of court order after it was instructed on Monday to permanently remove certain channels and profiles that are distributing graphic child pornography material and allegedly has not done so yet. The Gauteng High Court, Johannesburg, late on Monday evening ordered Meta to immediately remove six specified WhatsApp channels and 30 Instagram profiles. This followed an extremely urgent application launched by The Digital Law Company (DLC), which also obtained an order against Meta to, by Tuesday noon, supply all information in its possession about the creator(s) of the WhatsApp channels and Instagram profiles listed in the urgent application. Rorke Wilson of The Digital Law Company yesterday said Meta had partially complied by…

Mpumalanga Premier Mandla Ndlovu has announced a significant reshuffle of the provincial executive council, removing two Members of the Executive Council (MECs) from their positions and appointing new leadership across key departments. The move, according to Ndlovu, is aimed at improving governance and restoring public trust in the provincial administration. During a media briefing in Mbombela on Tuesday, Ndlovu confirmed the dismissal of Education MEC Cathy Dlamini and MEC for Economic Development and Tourism Makhosazane Masilela. Their removal comes amid ongoing concerns about poor governance, with the Department of Education recently embroiled in controversy over a R2 million laptop procurement scandal. Ndlovu said the reshuffle followed extensive consultations and was necessary to ensure proper service delivery across the province. “These changes were not taken lightly. They followed a thorough assessment…

TODAY, July 18, we celebrate Mandela Day. The occasion requires that we reflect on the qualities that defined former President Nelson Mandela and consider how they can be applied to South Africa’s current woes. As society faces socio-economic challenges, institutional decay and an increasing culture of individualism, Mandela’s legacy of decisive leadership stands in stark contrast to the erosion of authority that dominates today’s political landscape. No country develops by chance. Effective leadership is crucial for fostering economic resilience and driving progress, particularly in the face of global challenges. China, for instance, emerged as an international economic powerhouse after implementing transformative reforms from the late 1970s. By the end of 2020, the country had successfully achieved its objective of lifting more than 850 million people out of absolute poverty. This…

If any rugby follower is unsure how Georgia will approach Saturday’s encounter with the Springboks in Mbombela, they need only cast their minds back to the day England hooker Richard Cockerill shoved an All Black during the Haka. It was 1997, and Cockerill — now the head coach of Georgia — decided to fight fire with fire. As his teammates faced the Haka, Cockerill marched up to his opposite number, Norm Hewitt. The two locked eyes, went nose to nose, and the standoff ended with Cockerill shoving Hewitt. The All Blacks cried foul, but Cockerill refused to apologise. It is that same uncompromising attitude that has made him a popular figure with a Georgian side that thrives on physicality. In his first campaign in charge, Cockerill led Georgia to the…

When the spotlight is on her, Durban-born Proteas Women all-rounder Chloe Tryon generally rises to the occasion with her big-hitting displays and a cheeky spell or two. But off the field, she’s quite a simple, no-frills person who enjoys playing golf on her Xbox and eating smashed avocado on toast. She’s also something of a workaholic, taking “just a week off” to unwind and reset following the recent West Indies tour. Independent Sports caught up with Tryon, in an exclusive interview, just after a training session at the Wanderers in Gauteng, where several fellow cricketers are also preparing for The Hundred in the UK — the short-format tournament in which Tryon plays for Southern Brave. Tryon sees the tournament as a valuable opportunity to sharpen her skills ahead of the…

Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana said that rising trade barriers, persistent global imbalances and new geopolitical risks were concerns for domestic economy. Delivering his opening remarks at the G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors meeting, Godongwana said many developing countries, especially in Africa, remain burdened by high and rising debt vulnerabilities. “They face constrained fiscal space and high cost of capital that limits their ability to invest in their people and their futures,” he said. “Technological shifts, especially in artificial intelligence and digital finance, offer tremendous potential but also demand robust governance and coordinated action to harness the opportunity.” Godongwana said that climate-related shocks and extreme weather events were also increasing in frequency and severity worldwide, impacti lives and macroeconomic stability. “The curative impact of these cascading challenges is pushing…

Africa’s financial landscape is experiencing significant transformation, as digital payments increasingly displace cash, and emerging crypto assets challenge traditional notions of money. Previously constrained by low banking penetration, the continent is now redefining financial inclusion, through the growth of mobile money and fintech innovation. This shift is further propelled by the increased internet and mobile phone penetration, the rise of e-commerce platforms and youthful tech-savvy population. However, as the adoption of digital payments grows, the need for regulatory frameworks that promote innovation, protect consumers, and enhance integrity and security of the financial system has become increasingly critical. The Digital Payments Revolution Mobile money has changed the way people handle payments in Africa, with more than 1.1 billion registered mobile money accounts in 2024, reflecting a 19% increase from the previous…

On the recent episode of Showmax’s Untied, former Finance Minister Malusi Gigaba’s ex-wife, Norma Mngoma, opened up about the reportedly shocking events that took place in their marriage. From Gigaba’s alleged obsession with pornography, the alleged cheating, the alleged use of baby oil, and Mngoma’s alleged comparison of Gigaba to US music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs, she bared it all. The 50-year-old businesswoman shared: “Whenever you leave, you leave with baby oils. You are like Puff Diddy now. Why would you pack like that? It means whenever you leave home, you are prepared for those things.” During his infamous trial, it was revealed that Combs had an obsession with baby oil, which he allegedly forced his girlfriends or mistresses to partake in during his freak-offs. Mngoma also opened up to…

This week in celebrity news, controversy, music and romance were all on the menu. From Nicki Minaj’s fiery online rant to Tyla’s latest musical endeavours, here’s a rundown of the most notable stories. 1 Nicki Minaj responds to SZA’s comments Rapper Nicki Minaj this week found herself at the centre of a social media storm after responding to comments made by R&B singer SZA. The 42-year-old rapper unleashed a fiery rant on X, sparking debate among fans and drawing attention to the drama unfolding online. Minaj revealed that Punch, an artist signed to SZA’s label, Top Dawg Entertainment, bullied her online, without provocation. The 30 for 30 singer later posted a brief, mysterious tweet. It appeared to be a general statement, as no names were mentioned. 2 Tyla makes waves…

Despite a strong police presence monitoring the situation, tensions rose high as two opposing protests between Operation Dudula and Abahlali Basemjondolo converged on the corner of Jorissen and Melle streets in Braamfontein, Johannesburg. The atmosphere escalated quickly as members of the two movements, which have differing views on illegal immigration, clashed, resulting in the police using pepper spray to defuse the situation. The march against NGOs and the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) comes just as Operation Dudula, alongside the March in March movement, recently intensified its campaign, preventing undocumented immigrants from accessing healthcare services in some parts of the country. It is this campaign that has received criticism from the SAHRC as well as the National Department of Health, and other sectors of society, condemning Operation Dudula for…

Pressure is mounting on the Johannesburg Property Company (JPC) to provide clarity on its plans for several of the city’s iconic recreational facilities, such as Marks Park, Emmarentia Dam, and the Killarney Country Club. The JPC this week revealed part of its plans for Johannesburg Botanical Gardens, Emmarentia Dam, Marks Park, Westpark Cemetery, Wanderers Stadium, Ruimsig Stadium, Killarney Country Club (KCC), and Pirates Club in Greenside, among others. This followed an outcry from worried residents concerned about the possible sale of these facilities. JPC commercial and city-focused interventions general manager Sizeka Tshabalala attempted to allay fears that council land worth millions of rand was up for sale, saying this was a misconception and that there was no truth to the concerns raised. According to the JPC, KCC paid only R2…

South Africa’s public institutions are haemorrhaging credibility as ministers wield the dissolution axe with alarming frequency. From Transport Minister Barbara Creecy’s dissolution of the Road Accident Fund board amid “governance and operational issues” to Higher Education Minister Blade Nzimande’s dramatic dismantling of the NSFAS board over chronic payment failures, the pattern is unmistakable: our state-owned entities are failing spectacularly. The sheer volume of board dissolutions reads like a governance disaster checklist. Basketball SA faced dissolution calls after nearly bungling the U18 African Championships, with R5 million in liabilities against just R36 000 in the bank. Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie dissolved the boxing board, creating what observers called “a vacuum” in the sport. The list extends to SA Tourism, multiple Gauteng provincial boards, and the perpetually troubled PRASA. This is not…

Formula One rookie sensation Andrea Kimi Antonelli, 18, is likely to be the one to vacate his Mercedes seat should Toto Wolff pull the trigger on a blockbuster move for Max Verstappen, according to Italian media. The F1 world watched with anticipation at the start of the season as Wolff’s gamble on the Italian teenager either threatened to backfire or deliver big. Replacing Lewis Hamilton was never going to be straightforward, but it only took a couple of races for Antonelli to prove he might be championship material. The Italian fought from P16 to finish P4 on debut during a wet Australian Grand Prix at Albert Park. Since then, he has claimed a P3 podium during a dream race weekend for Mercedes, with George Russell taking the win. Despite showing…

The Junior Springboks have taken a leaf out of the book of their senior counterparts and will field a 6-2 forward split on the bench for their World Rugby U20 Championship final against New Zealand in Rovigo on Saturday night. The much-anticipated final against the Baby Blacks takes place on Saturday at 8.30pm. Lock Riley Norton will once again lead a familiar-looking side that has featured in most of the pool matches, as well as Monday’s semi-final victory over Argentina. The unchanged line-up means the bench will again feature a Bomb Squad in what promises to be an epic battle between the two southern hemisphere rivals. Junior Bok head coach Kevin Foote said the SA U20s have worked hard to reach the final and are excited to face their greatest…

Assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate has indicated that India are leaning towards playing Jasprit Bumrah in the fourth Test against England at Old Trafford, though a final decision will be made closer to the start. Before the tour, chief selector Ajit Agarkar and head coach Gautam Gambhir had said Bumrah would only play in three of the five Tests due to workload management. He featured at Headingley and Lord’s but was rested for the Edgbaston Test. With a week between matches, he may return for the Manchester clash starting on July 23, as India seek to level the series following a 22-run loss at Lord’s. “We’ll make that call in Manchester,” said Ten Doeschate. India had an injury scare during training when left-arm seamer Arshdeep Singh cut his bowling hand…

To be honest, few would have been surprised to learn that the real Fifa Club World Cup trophy — designed by Tiffany & Co — is destined to remain in the White House in perpetuity. It’s the kind of garish Americana that fits neatly with the current president’s brand: shiny, performative, and tailor-made for a press conference. Another glittering bauble to be paraded as proof of greatness — regardless of who actually earned it on the pitch. “I said, ‘When are you going to pick up the trophy?’” Trump remarked earlier this week, while showing it off at the White House. “And (Fifa) said, ‘We’re never going to pick it up. You can have it forever in the Oval Office. We’re making a new one.’ “And they actually made a…

The official draw for the Gauteng leg of the 2025 Engen Knockout Challenge took place this past Tuesday at Wits Sturrock Park in Johannesburg. Top Under-18 boys and Under-20 girls teams will compete for provincial honours and a place at the Engen Champ of Champs, which is scheduled for early October at the High-Performance Centre in Pretoria. Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns return as defending champions in the boys and girls categories, respectively, and will be looking to hold on to their titles in what is expected to be a competitive and exciting weekend of youth football. Engen Brand and Sponsorship Manager Tsholo Tiro emphasised the importance of the tournament for youth development: “The Engen Knockout Challenge continues to be a platform that allows us to make a real difference…