England squandered a prime opportunity to level the Women’s Ashes series, losing to Australia by 21 runs in a dramatic second ODI at the Junction Oval, Melbourne. Chasing a modest target of 181, England faltered to 159 all out, handing Australia a 4-0 lead in the multi-format series.

With just 22 runs needed and one wicket in hand, England’s hopes rested on Lauren Bell and Amy Jones. However, Bell was bowled by Megan Schutt for one in the penultimate over, completing a collapse from 120-5. Jones remained unbeaten on 47, but a tactical misstep marred England’s chances when Jones failed to capitalize on a free hit following Annabel Sutherland’s removal from the attack for bowling two no-balls in the 48th over.

England’s bowlers had set the stage for a memorable win by dismantling Australia for 180 in 44.3 overs. Sophie Ecclestone excelled with figures of 4-35, while Alice Capsey added 3-22, including the crucial wicket of Ellyse Perry, who top-scored with a composed 60 off 74 balls. Despite Australia losing eight wickets for just 49 runs, England could not capitalize on the opportunity.

The visitors began their chase solidly but suffered a similar collapse. Reduced from 68-2 to 120-5, their batting lineup failed to withstand the pressure. Alana King proved instrumental for Australia, claiming 4-25 to derail England’s innings.

This defeat is a bitter pill for England, whose tactical lapses in high-pressure situations raised concerns ahead of the series’ conclusion. With the final ODI set for January 16 in Hobart, followed by three T20 matches and a one-off Test, England faces an uphill battle to keep their Ashes hopes alive.

Makar Sankranti, one of India’s most cherished festivals, is celebrated with immense joy and gratitude each year in mid-January. The festival marks the transition of the Sun into Capricorn (Makara Rashi), symbolizing new beginnings, prosperity, and hope.

This year, let the spirit of Makar Sankranti fill your life with positivity as you share wishes and messages with family, friends, and colleagues. Here’s a collection of heartfelt greetings to help you celebrate this vibrant occasion.

Heartfelt wishes for Makar Sankranti 2025

• May the warmth of the Sun bring joy and success to your life. Happy Makar Sankranti 2025!
• Wishing you and your family a season of prosperity and happiness. Stay blessed!
• May your dreams soar high like the kites in the sky. Have a joyful Makar Sankranti!
• Let this auspicious day fill your life with light, health, and positivity. Happy Makar Sankranti!
• On this day of new beginnings, may happiness and abundance grace your life.

Traditional messages to share

• Celebrate the harvest season with love, gratitude, and togetherness. Happy Makar Sankranti!
• May the sweetness of til and jaggery fill your days with joy and harmony.
• Thank the Sun God for blessings and abundance. Wishing you a vibrant Sankranti!
• May the colorful kites in the sky brighten your life with happiness.
• Celebrate with laughter, love, and cherished memories. Have a wonderful Makar Sankranti!

Inspirational messages for Makar Sankranti

• Just as the Sun begins its new journey, may you find new opportunities and brighter days.
• Rise above challenges like the kites that soar high. Wishing you success and positivity.
• Let Makar Sankranti inspire you to chase your dreams with renewed energy.
• Celebrate the spirit of gratitude and embrace the promise of new beginnings.

Festive WhatsApp and social media greetings

• “Let’s celebrate Makar Sankranti with joy, love, and positivity. Happy Sankranti!”
• “Wishing you a harvest of happiness and a day full of laughter and love.”
• “May this festival bring warmth, light, and success into your life. Happy Makar Sankranti!”
• “Celebrate this harvest season with gratitude and smiles. Have a wonderful day!”
• “May your life be as vibrant as the kites in the sky. Happy Makar Sankranti!”

As you celebrate Makar Sankranti 2025, let the joy of the festival bring your loved ones closer and inspire positivity in every aspect of life. Share these wishes and messages to spread happiness and make this festival a memorable one. May the blessings of the Sun God fill your life with warmth, success, and prosperity. Happy Makar Sankranti!

The Indian stock market faced another day of sharp declines on January 13, as bearish sentiments tightened their grip for the fourth consecutive session. Weak global cues, a surge in crude oil prices to a three-month high, and reduced expectations of a U.S. rate cut in 2025 contributed to the downward spiral.

At the close of trading, the Sensex plunged 1,048.90 points or 1.36% to settle at 76,330.01. The Nifty also fell significantly, shedding 345.55 points or 1.47% to close at 23,085.95.

Sectoral impact

All sectoral indices ended the session in the red. The realty index was the worst hit, slumping by 6.7%. Other sectors, including oil & gas, power, PSU, metal, and media, recorded losses in the range of 3-4%.

This broad-based sell-off saw investors’ wealth take a major hit. The market capitalization of BSE-listed companies dropped sharply by Rs 12.39 lakh crore, falling to Rs 417.28 lakh crore from Rs 429.67 lakh crore in the previous session.

Key drivers of the decline

Crude oil prices: Crude oil surged to a three-month high, stoking fears of inflationary pressures and higher input costs across industries.

Global market trends: Weak global markets added to investor apprehensions, as global indices reflected a cautious outlook amid economic uncertainties.

Interest rate concerns: Revised expectations that the U.S. Federal Reserve may delay rate cuts in 2025 also weighed on investor sentiment.

Outlook

Market experts suggest that volatility may persist in the near term as global and domestic factors continue to influence investor behavior. A focus on corporate earnings reports and international economic trends will be critical in shaping market movements in the weeks ahead.

With a significant erosion in investor wealth, market participants remain cautious as they navigate the ongoing uncertainties.