The World around U

  Peter Pollock – The Heart of South Africa’s Seam Attack 🧾 Introduction Peter Maclean Pollock was born on June 30, 1941 , in Pietermaritzburg, Natal, South Africa. A right-arm fast bowler and right-handed lower-order batsman, Peter Pollock was the spearhead of South Africa's pace attack during the 1960s and one of the country’s finest cricketing minds. He was known for his aggression, discipline, and leadership both on and off the field.  Peter Pollock has a great cricket legacy in his family with brother Greame Pollock considered as an iconic South African batter , an all time great and son Shaun Pollock ending as one of the South African all round greats .   Peter Pollock ( R)  with brother Greame Pollock (L)  Style of Play Peter Pollock was a genuinely fast and hostile bowler , who delivered with a classical upright action. His ability to extract bounce and movement even on unresponsive wickets made him a constant threat. As a batsman , he was c...

  Mike Tyson – Boxing legend with deadly Physical  strength  Introduction Michael Gerard Tyson was born on June 30, 1966 , in Brooklyn, New York, USA. Known by nicknames like "Iron Mike" and "Kid Dynamite" , Tyson was a ferocious orthodox heavyweight boxer with unmatched punching power, explosive speed, and an intimidating presence in the ring. He became the youngest heavyweight champion in boxing history and one of its most feared competitors during the late 1980s and early 1990s. Style of Play Tyson’s boxing style was rooted in the peek-a-boo technique , developed by his mentor Cus D’Amato. This style emphasized: Tight guard Rapid head movement Counter-punching Ferocious body shots and uppercuts Tyson’s fights often ended in the early rounds due to his overwhelming power and aggressiveness. Career Highlights Turned Professional : 1985 (at age 18) Youngest Heavyweight Champion in history at 20 years and 4 months (1986) Became the undisputed ...

  Sanath Jayasuriya – The Matara Mauler Introduction Sanath Teran Jayasuriya was born on June 30, 1969 , in Matara, Sri Lanka. An explosive left-handed opening batsman , a handy left-arm orthodox spinner , and an agile fielder, Jayasuriya revolutionized one-day cricket with his aggressive stroke play during the 1990s. His fearless style of play redefined opening batting in ODIs and played a pivotal role in Sri Lanka’s rise on the world stage.  Style of Play Jayasuriya was best known for his aggressive batting , especially in the powerplay overs. He attacked bowlers from the start with cuts, pulls, and lofted drives , especially over the infield. As a bowler, he was a street-smart spinner , often breaking partnerships and controlling the middle overs. His athletic fielding rounded out his value as a complete cricketer. Career Stats Test Cricket Matches : 110 Runs : 6,973 Average : 40.07 100s/50s : 14/31 Highest Score : 340 Wickets : 98 Best Bowling : 5/34 Catc...

  Danyang-si , located in North Chungcheong Province (Chungcheongbuk-do) , is a small but spectacular county famous for its karst limestone cliffs, caves, river views, and natural wonders . Situated along the Namhan River (남한강) and surrounded by the Sobaek Mountain Range , Danyang is known as the “Switzerland of Korea” due to its dramatic landscape. It’s a popular destination for nature lovers, cave explorers, paragliders, and anyone looking for a peaceful escape into Korea’s central mountains. Best Spots to Visit in Detail Gosu Cave  A limestone cave dating back over 450 million years. Features stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and underground waterfalls. Lit and walkable (about 1.5 km of the cave is accessible). Temperature inside stays around 15°C year-round. Dodamsambong Peaks  A trio of sharp rock formations rising from the Namhan River. A famous scenic symbol of Danyang. The site also includes Seokmun Pavilion , which offers great views. Most pho...

  Chungju-si , located in North Chungcheong Province (Chungcheongbuk-do) , is a scenic inland city known for its mountains, rivers, and historical significance . It sits in the heart of the Korean Peninsula and is especially famous for Chungju Lake , martial arts heritage , and apple orchards . It’s also the birthplace of General Kim Yu-sin , a key figure in Korean unification during the Silla Dynasty. A quiet, underrated gem, Chungju offers peaceful natural retreats, ancient temples, and local flavors. 📍 Best Spots to Visit in Detail Chungju Lake A massive artificial lake formed by Chungju Dam, surrounded by mountains and cliffs. Offers cruise rides , kayaking, and ferry services to hidden temples and islands. Great for relaxation, photography, and picnics. Chungju World Martial Arts Park  Built for the World Martial Arts Festival , it includes statues, performance stages, and a martial arts-themed museum. Scenic lakeside park ideal for peaceful walks and panora...

  Iconic Sun Temple – Konark, Odisha Introduction The Konark Sun Temple , located on the eastern coast of India in Odisha’s Puri district , is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the greatest architectural masterpieces of ancient India. Built in the form of a gigantic chariot of the Sun God (Surya) , it is a glowing symbol of India’s ancient knowledge of astronomy, art, and architecture. The temple is also known as the Black Pagoda for its dark granite structure that once served as a navigational landmark for sailors on the Bay of Bengal. History in Detail The temple was built in the 13th century (circa 1250 CE) by King Narasimhadeva I , ruler of the Eastern Ganga dynasty . Constructed to honor Surya (the Sun God) , the temple once stood over 200 feet tall , though much of the main tower (shikhara) has since collapsed. The term “Konark” is derived from two Sanskrit words — Kona (angle) and Arka (Sun) — signifying a place where the sun is worshipped through ...

  Australia Begin WTC 2025–27 with Dominant Win Over West Indies Australia have kicked off their World Test Championship (WTC) 2025–27 campaign with a convincing victory, thrashing West Indies by 159 runs in the first Test at Bridgetown, Barbados on a spicy pitch helping the seamers . The star of the match was Australian batter Travis Head , who struck impressive half-centuries in both innings, playing a key role in snatching the win from the hosts. Head scored a total of 120 runs in the match, helping Australia take a 1-0 lead in the three-match Test series. Despite a brilliant bowling performance from West Indies’ young pacer Shamar Joseph , who claimed 9 wickets in the match, the hosts couldn’t avoid defeat. The second Test will be played in St. George’s from July 3 . Travis Head: Australia’s Crisis Man Once Again Travis Head once again stepped up when his team needed him the most. He scored 59 runs in the first innings coming to bat at 22/3 and followed it up with a 61-...

  Here is a comprehensive guide to the Lingaraja Temple of Bhubaneswar, one of the oldest and most majestic temples in Eastern India: Lingaraja Temple – Bhubaneswar, Odisha Introduction Lingaraja Temple is a monumental Shiva temple located in the heart of Bhubaneswar , the capital of Odisha. Revered as the culmination of Kalinga temple architecture , this temple is a masterpiece of ancient Hindu craftsmanship and religious devotion. Dedicated primarily to Lord Shiva , worshipped here as Harihara — a fusion of Shiva and Vishnu — the temple is one of the most visited and spiritually significant sites in Odisha. Bhubaneswar, often called the “City of Temples,” is named after this very deity — Lingaraja , the King of Lingas. History in Detail The temple's construction is generally attributed to the 11th century CE , during the reign of King Yayati I of the Somavamshi dynasty . Later expansions were made by rulers of the Ganga dynasty . Inscriptions suggest the temple...

  Shri Jagannath Temple – Puri, Odisha Introduction The Jagannath Temple in Puri , Odisha, is one of the char dhams of Hinduism and a powerful center of Vaishnavite devotion , dedicated to Lord Jagannath (a form of Krishna) , along with Balabhadra and Subhadra . Known for its unique rituals and the world-famous Rath Yatra (Chariot Festival) , the temple attracts millions of devotees and pilgrims every year. This temple is an architectural, spiritual, and cultural marvel — deeply embedded in the fabric of India's religious heritage. History in Detail The temple's origins are traced back to the 12th century CE , built by King Anantavarman Chodaganga Deva of the Eastern Ganga Dynasty. However, worship of Lord Jagannath in tribal and folk forms existed much earlier in the region — linked to Savara tribes and pre-Vedic traditions . The main temple structure was completed in approximately 1174 CE , and over time, additions and expansions were made by successiv...

   Kevin Pietersen – The Maverick Genius of English Cricket Introduction Kevin Peter Pietersen was born on June 27, 1980 , in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa. A dynamic right-handed batsman with a flair for aggression and innovation, Pietersen brought a unique edge to English cricket. Known for his audacity, wristy strokeplay, and match-winning temperament, he played with a swagger that made him both loved and polarizing. He also bowled occasional off-spin and was a sharp fielder in the slips and deep positions.  Style of Play Pietersen was an aggressive stroke-maker who dominated bowlers with power, timing, and confidence. His signature shots included the flamboyant switch hit, the powerful pull, and inside-out lofted drives . He thrived under pressure and was at his best against top bowling attacks. Though his risk-taking often led to his downfall, his impact on the game was undeniable.  Career Stats Test Cricket Matches : 104 Runs : 8,181 Average : 4...

  Dale Steyn – The Firestorm of South African Pace 🧾 Introduction Dale Willem Steyn was born on June 27, 1983 , in Phalaborwa, South Africa. Widely regarded as one of the greatest fast bowlers in the history of cricket , Steyn was known for his blistering pace, deadly outswingers, aggressive attitude, and remarkable consistency . A right-arm fast bowler with a classical action and raw intensity, Steyn dominated world cricket, particularly in Test matches, for over a decade.  Style of Play Steyn’s style was marked by sheer speed, late swing (especially the outswinger to right-handers), and a fierce competitive streak. Unlike many fast bowlers, he combined pace with unrelenting accuracy and movement , making him a nightmare for the best batters in the world. His ability to reverse swing the old ball also made him lethal in subcontinent conditions. Though a lower-order batter, he played a few handy innings and was a reliable outfielder. Career Stats Test Cricket Matc...

  Svetlana Kuznetsova – The Relentless Russian Force Introduction Svetlana Aleksandrovna Kuznetsova was born on June 27, 1985 , in Leningrad (now Saint Petersburg), Russia. Coming from a family steeped in athletic tradition—her father was a cycling coach and her mother a six-time world champion cyclist—Kuznetsova carved her own legacy on the tennis court. A right-handed player with a strong baseline game and powerful forehand , Kuznetsova became one of the most consistent and enduring names in women’s tennis through the 2000s and 2010s.  Style of Play Kuznetsova was known for her aggressive baseline style , characterized by a heavy topspin forehand, solid two-handed backhand , and excellent court coverage. She possessed tremendous athleticism , enabling her to construct long rallies and chase down difficult shots. Though mostly a baseliner, she was also comfortable at the net and developed a strong doubles game, using her variety and touch to finish points skillfully. ...

  Paolo Maldini – The Italian & AC Milan icon 🧾 Introduction Paolo Cesare Maldini was born on June 26, 1968 , in Milan, Italy. A towering symbol of loyalty, discipline, and elegance in defense, Maldini spent his entire professional career at AC Milan , where he evolved from a teenage left-back into one of the most iconic central defenders the sport has ever seen. Known for his immaculate positioning, intelligent reading of the game, and quiet leadership, Maldini redefined defensive excellence for nearly a quarter of a century.  Style of Play Maldini’s style was the perfect blend of tactical intelligence, technical finesse, and calm authority . He rarely needed to tackle, instead relying on anticipation and positioning. A natural left-back in his early years, he later became a commanding centre-back. Despite being a defender, he was graceful on the ball, delivering accurate passes and overlapping when required. He led with poise rather than aggression, embodying the ...

  Group Captain Sudhanshu Shukla Becomes First Indian in 40 Years to Reach the ISS, Reigniting India’s Human Spaceflight Legacy In a historic moment for India, Group Captain Sudhanshu Shukla of the Indian Air Force lifted off to the International Space Station (ISS) on June 25 , becoming the first Indian in four decades to reach the orbital laboratory. Aboard the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft , launched under the Axiom-4 private space mission , Shukla’s achievement not only revives India’s long-paused human spaceflight journey but also marks the nation’s deepening ties with global private space enterprises. The launch, which occurred at 12:01 pm IST , carried four astronauts and spotlighted Shukla as a symbol of India’s re-emergence on the spaceflight stage. His journey comes nearly 40 years after Rakesh Sharma’s iconic flight aboard a Soviet Soyuz in 1984. Shukla was selected after undergoing rigorous training in both Russia and the United States , which included simulations, ISS...