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Over 7,000 Sri Lankans attend rain-hit opener of 2024 Lanka T10 Super League

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Six teams played thrilling matches to start the 2024 Lanka T10 Super League season at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Kandy. Exciting matches were played on the first day with the Galle Marvels playing the Kandy Bolts, the Colombo Jaguars playing the Nuwara Eliya Kings, and the Jaffna Titans playing the Hambantota Bangla Tigers. While the Hambantota Bangla Tigers, captained by Dasun Shanaka, suffered an 8-wicket defeat to the Jaffna Titans, it was Shanaka who truly captured the hearts of 7000 Sri Lankan attendees who were present despite the stadium receiving the heaviest showers.

Despite Mohammad Amir’s early breakthrough dismissing Kusal Perera, Dasun Shanaka’s partnership with Mohammad Shahzad (22 off 15) demonstrated why he’s considered Sri Lanka’s premier power hitter. The national hero’s presence drew passionate fans to the grandstands, with supporters clamoring for photographs and handshakes, showcasing his status as Sri Lanka’s newest cricket icon.

In a spectacular display of power hitting reminiscent of Sri Lankan legend Tillakaratne Dilshan, who revolutionized T20 cricket with his innovative “Dilscoop” and aggressive batting style, Dasun Shanaka the skipper delivered a masterclass in the tournament’s opening match. The Jaffna Titans secured a commanding 8-wicket victory over Hambantota Bangla Tigers, but it was Shanaka’s brilliant 51 off just 17 deliveries, featuring five towering sixes and four boundaries, that captured the imagination of the crowd.

The second game between the Colombo Jaguars and Nuwara Eliya Kings was rained out but over 7000 loyal supporters were still dispersed throughout the unique viewing areas of Pallekele International Stadium. The main grandstand of the stadium with its distinctive seats and roof cover was crammed full as it extended along the eastern side. A festival-like atmosphere was created by the well-known grass embankment areas especially the natural slopes at either end of the ground that are typical of Sri Lankan cricket venues. Families and young fans without umbrellas set up their viewing spots and mats in spite of the drizzle.

The tournament’s opening day featured impressive performances from international stars like Mohammad Amir and Jason Roy, alongside local talents Avishka Fernando who scored a good half century before the rain washout and Binura Fernando’s wickets that kept the crowd entertained. However, it was Shanaka’s explosive innings and magnetic personality that truly captured the essence of Sri Lankan cricket’s future.

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Will UAE petrol prices rise in August? Here’s what we know

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UAE motorists won’t have long to wait to find out whether fuel prices will increase in August, with the Fuel Price Committee set to announce the new rates on Thursday, July 31.

The revised petrol and diesel prices will take effect from August 1.

Will fuel prices go up?

After a welcome price cut in July, the outlook for August is less certain.

Global oil prices initially fell below $70 a barrel earlier this month, raising hopes of another reduction. However, prices have since rebounded sharply, clouding the picture for motorists.

Brent crude briefly climbed above $100 a barrel, while US benchmark WTI rose to nearly us$92. Abu Dhabi’s Murban crude also surged past us$105, reflecting renewed strength in global energy markets.

Because UAE fuel prices are based on average international oil prices over the month, the late-July rally could limit or even reverse last month’s cuts.

Current UAE fuel prices

Motorists are currently paying:

  • Super 98: Dh3.40 per litre
  • Special 95: Dh3.29 per litre
  • E-Plus 91: Dh3.21 per litre
  • Diesel: Dh3.60 per litre

These rates were introduced in July after global oil prices eased earlier in the summer.

How UAE fuel prices are set

The UAE reviews petrol and diesel prices every month based on average global crude oil and refined fuel prices.

The August rates will be announced on July 31 through official government channels and will come into effect the following day.

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UAE traffic fine: Why leaving your engine idling can cost you Dh500

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Abu Dhabi Police are urging motorists to switch off their engines and take their keys whenever leaving their vehicles, warning that even brief stops can increase the risk of theft, fires and other safety hazards.

The advisory applies to drivers stopping at shops, petrol stations, ATMs or mosques, where some motorists continue to leave vehicles unattended with the engine running.

Safety risks

Police said leaving a running vehicle unattended creates an opportunity for theft and could also lead to mechanical problems or fire-related incidents.

Motorists were also reminded never to leave children, especially infants, inside a running vehicle, describing the practice as a serious threat to their safety.

Traffic laws

Abu Dhabi Police also highlighted that UAE traffic laws prohibit leaving an unattended vehicle with its engine running.

Drivers who fail to comply with traffic rules and official instructions can face a Dh500fine under the Federal Traffic Law.

Authorities urged motorists to adopt safe habits by turning off the engine, removing the key and locking the vehicle every time they step away, no matter how briefly.

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Dubai Airports unveils smart gate pre-check for passengers

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Passengers travelling through Dubai International Airport (DXB) can now check if they’re eligible to use Smart Gates before reaching passport control.

Dubai Airports has introduced the new Smart Gates Pre-Eligibility Verification service in partnership with the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) to make immigration faster and reduce waiting times.

How it works

Travellers can instantly verify their Smart Gate eligibility through the Pocket Flights platform or by scanning QR codes placed across airport terminals and boarding gates.

The service lets passengers know in advance whether they can use the automated passport gates, helping them avoid uncertainty at immigration.

Faster airport experience

Dubai Airports says the new feature is part of its ongoing efforts to streamline passenger journeys and improve the overall airport experience.

By allowing travellers to confirm eligibility before reaching passport control, the airport aims to speed up immigration processing and make travel through DXB more seamless for millions of passengers each year.

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