Heath Streak is alive: Reports of former Zimbabwe captain's death are untrue

 Reports of former Zimbabwe captain Heath Streak's death are untrue. The cricketer is very much alive.

Corrigendum: Our earlier report on Heath Streak's passing was inaccurate. We apologise for any confusion caused and deeply regret the error.

Streak, a prominent name in Zimbabwean sports during the 1990s and early 2000s, faced a dramatic downfall in his cricketing career. With a remarkable record of 65 Tests and 189 ODIs, where he scored 4,933 runs and secured 455 wickets for his nation, Streak's achievements shone on the international stage.

Following his retirement in 2005, Streak transitioned into coaching roles, lending his expertise to various teams across domestic and international cricket. His coaching journey encompassed tenures with Bangladesh, his home nation Zimbabwe and the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

However, this illustrious career took a grievous turn in 2021 as Streak, the former captain of Zimbabwe, admitted to five breaches of the ICC's anti-corruption code, which led to an eight-year ban. A significant charge against him was his acceptance of a payment in bitcoins from an individual with corrupt intentions.

The allegations span a wide range of games, covering the years 2017 and 2018. These accusations revolve around his post-retirement coaching career, which included stints in international cricket with Zimbabwe from 2016 to 2018.

Also, his involvement extended to various T20 leagues such as the IPL, the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) and the Afghanistan Premier League (APL).

Barcelona vs Tottenham

Barcelona vs Tottenham: A Thrilling Clash in the Joan Gamper Trophy

August 8, 2023

The exhilarating showdown between Barcelona and Tottenham in the Joan Gamper Trophy captivated fans as both teams displayed their prowess on the field. Despite Tottenham's valiant efforts, Barcelona emerged victorious with a 4-2 triumph, securing their 11th consecutive title in this prestigious pre-season tournament.

The anticipation was palpable as Barcelona and Tottenham clashed in the Joan Gamper Trophy, a traditional curtain-raiser that holds immense significance for both clubs. The match not only provided a platform for showcasing emerging talents but also offered fans a taste of what's to come in the upcoming season.

The Early Lead: Lewandowski Strikes

Barcelona wasted no time in asserting their dominance as Robert Lewandowski seized the opportunity to put his team ahead within the opening minutes. The early goal set the tone for an engaging battle between two football giants.

Spurs' Resilient Fightback

Tottenham, though initially shaken by Lewandowski's goal, exhibited remarkable resilience. Oliver Skipp emerged as the hero, netting two goals in rapid succession just before halftime. This unexpected turn of events showcased Tottenham's determination and hinted at the thrilling contest that lay ahead.

A Turn of Events: Barcelona's Dominance

As the second half unfolded, Barcelona's experience and skill came to the forefront. Ferran Torres and Ansu Fati orchestrated an impressive comeback, putting Barcelona back in the driver's seat. The match, which had been evenly poised, began to tilt in favor of the Spanish giants.

Emerging Stars: Torres and Fati Shine

Ferran Torres and Ansu Fati's performance in the match highlighted the potential of Barcelona's young talents. Their contribution not only secured Barcelona's lead but also underscored the club's commitment to nurturing emerging players.

The Final Blow: Ezzalzouli's Impact

As the game reached its climax, Abde Ezzalzouli delivered the final blow to Tottenham's hopes. His late goal in stoppage time left Spurs' defense shattered, sealing Barcelona's victory with a 4-2 scoreline. Ezzalzouli's impact emphasized the depth of talent within Barcelona's squad.

Looking Ahead: Tottenham's Premier League Campaign

While the Joan Gamper Trophy ended in defeat for Tottenham, the team's performance showcased promise and determination. With their sights set on the Premier League season opener against Brentford, Tottenham aims to channel their learnings from this match and make a strong start in the league.

The Barcelona vs Tottenham clash in the Joan Gamper Trophy was a rollercoaster of emotions, demonstrating the unpredictable nature of football. Both teams exhibited skill, determination, and a relentless spirit, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the upcoming season.

Manchester Originals vs Birmingham Phoenix (The Hundred 2023)

Manchester Originals Secure a Commanding 49-Run Victory over Birmingham Phoenix in The Hundred 2023
Date: August 7th, 2023

In a high-octane clash of The Hundred 2023, the Manchester Originals triumphed over the Birmingham Phoenix with an emphatic 49-run victory. The electrifying match, held on August 7th, showcased a splendid display of cricketing prowess from both teams, but it was the Manchester Originals who emerged as the dominant force.

Match Summary:

Manchester Originals Innings: Having won the toss, the Manchester Originals opted to bat first, aiming to set a challenging target for the opposition. Their innings commenced with a solid opening partnership that laid the foundation for a formidable total. The batsmen exhibited a blend of aggressive strokes and intelligent placement, garnering runs steadily. Despite a few setbacks in the middle order, the Originals managed to post a competitive score of 160/8 at the end of their innings.

Birmingham Phoenix Bowling: The Birmingham Phoenix bowlers displayed commendable skills, taking wickets at crucial intervals to curb the Originals' scoring momentum. The bowlers employed a mix of pace variations and spin to keep the batsmen on their toes. Usama Mir's pivotal contributions with both bat and ball showcased his all-around prowess, setting the tone for the rest of the encounter.

Birmingham Phoenix Innings: Chasing a target of 161, the Birmingham Phoenix faced a daunting task against a resolute Manchester Originals bowling attack. While they started with determination, partnerships were hard to come by. The pressure mounted as the required run rate soared, resulting in frequent wickets falling. The Phoenix batsmen struggled to build substantial partnerships, ultimately being bowled out for 111 runs.

Manchester Originals Bowling: The Manchester Originals' bowlers displayed precision and control, exploiting the pitch conditions to their advantage. Seamers and spinners worked in tandem to dismantle the Birmingham Phoenix batting lineup. Usama Mir's exceptional performance was a highlight, as he showcased his versatility by contributing with both the bat and ball, proving to be a key factor in the Originals' triumph.

Result: With a comprehensive bowling effort backed by a solid batting performance, the Manchester Originals emerged victorious, securing a commanding 49-run win. Their ability to maintain pressure throughout the innings and capitalize on crucial moments proved instrumental in clinching the victory.

Player of the Match - Usama Mir: Usama Mir outstanding all-around performance earned him the well-deserved "Player of the Match" award. His contributions with both bat and ball proved to be the turning point, setting the stage for Manchester Originals' success.

The contest between the Manchester Originals and the Birmingham Phoenix will be remembered as a thrilling encounter in The Hundred 2023. The Originals' ability to execute their game plan effectively, coupled with Usama Mir's standout performance, solidified their dominance on the field and etched their victory into cricketing history.

Liverpool's Victory Against Darmstadt: A Thrilling Encounter

A Thrilling Encounter

In a captivating football match that pitted Liverpool against Darmstadt, the former emerged victorious with a convincing scoreline of 3-1. The clash between these two teams generated immense excitement and showcased the skills of the players. This article delves into the key moments, standout performances, and the impact of the match on both teams.

Liverpool 3-1 Darmstadt | Salah, Jota & BRILLIANT Luis Diaz flick 

The Battle on the Pitch: Liverpool vs. Darmstadt

A Glimpse into the Teams

Liverpool's Lineup: Eager for Glory

Liverpool, known for its historic successes and passionate fanbase, entered the match with high hopes. Their lineup boasted a mix of seasoned players and emerging talents, all eager to secure a triumph.

Darmstadt's Resilient Squad

On the other side, Darmstadt, a team with a reputation for resilience, took on the challenge with determination. Their lineup reflected a blend of experienced campaigners and rising stars, all set to prove their mettle.

The Unfolding Drama

Liverpool's Early Dominance 

From the kickoff, Liverpool exhibited dominance, controlling possession and launching attacks. The tactical prowess of their manager shone through as they constantly pressed Darmstadt.

Darmstadt's Counterattack 

Darmstadt, however, displayed their counterattacking prowess, exploiting the spaces left by Liverpool's aggressive play. Their swift transitions put Liverpool's defense to the test.

Salah's Opening Goal 

In the 25th minute, Mohamed Salah's sublime finish broke the deadlock, sending the Liverpool faithful into a frenzy. His clinical strike showcased his impeccable scoring ability.

Darmstadt's Equalizer 

Darmstadt responded impressively, leveling the score with a well-executed set-piece goal. Their unity and determination were evident as they celebrated their hard-earned goal.

Liverpool's Dominance Restored

Liverpool's determination was rewarded as they retook the lead through a brilliantly executed team goal. The seamless coordination of passes highlighted their exceptional teamwork.

Securing the Victory 

As the match neared its conclusion, Liverpool sealed their triumph with a third goal, securing a well-deserved victory. The cheers reverberated through the stadium as the final whistle blew.

Standout Performances and Impact

Mohamed Salah: A Stellar Show 

Salah's exceptional performance earned him the Man of the Match accolade. His goal and assists not only displayed his individual brilliance but also fueled his team's success.

Teamwork Triumphs 

Both teams demonstrated remarkable teamwork, displaying the synergy between their players. The match underscored the significance of collaboration on the football field.


The clash between Liverpool and Darmstadt provided football enthusiasts with a captivating spectacle. The display of skill, determination, and teamwork from both sides was commendable. As Liverpool emerged victorious with a 3-1 scoreline, the match will be etched in the memory of fans for years to come.

Heathrow to Luton Taxi with BA Car Hire: Your Ultimate Guide

Traveling from Heathrow to Luton can be an exciting journey, but it can also be a bit challenging to find the most convenient and reliable mode of transportation. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the benefits of using BA Car Hire for your taxi service from Heathrow to Luton. We'll cover everything you need to know to ensure a smooth and hassle-free trip

Getting to Luton Airport from Heathrow

The Distance Between Heathrow and Luton Airports

Heathrow Airport, located in the west of London, and Luton Airport, situated to the north, are approximately 33 miles apart. The distance can be covered in about an hour or so, depending on traffic conditions.

Transportation Options

Travelers have several transportation options to get from Heathrow to Luton, including trains, buses, private taxis, and car hire services. While public transportation may be cost-effective, it might not offer the comfort and convenience you desire, especially after a long flight.

Introducing BA Car Hire

What is BA Car Hire?

BA Car Hire is a reputable car rental service that offers premium taxi transfers from Heathrow to Luton Airport. With years of experience in the industry, they have become a preferred choice for many travelers seeking a reliable and comfortable transportation option.

Advantages of Choosing BA Car Hire

• Convenience: BACar Hire allows you to pre-book your taxi online, saving you time and effort upon your arrival.
• Comfort: Their fleet of vehicles is equipped with modern amenities, ensuring a pleasant and relaxing journey.
• Flexibility: You can choose from a variety of vehicles based on your travel needs and preferences.

BA Car Hire Fleet

Wide Selection of Vehicles

BA Car Hire boasts a diverse fleet, ranging from standard sedans to luxury vehicles. Whether you're traveling solo or with a group, they have the perfect vehicle for you.

Vehicle Features and Amenities

Their vehicles are equipped with air conditioning, spacious seating, and ample luggage space. You can expect a smooth and enjoyable ride, no matter the weather conditions.

Booking Process

Online Reservations

Booking a taxi with BA Car Hire is incredibly easy. Their user-friendly website allows you to enter your details, select your vehicle, and reserve your taxi in just a few clicks.

Customer Support

If you have any questions or need assistance, BA Car Hire's customer support team is available 24/7. They are ready to address any concerns and ensure a seamless booking experience.

Affordability and Transparency

Competitive Pricing

BA Car Hire offers competitive rates without compromising on service quality. Their transparent pricing policy ensures that you know the cost upfront.

No Hidden Costs

Rest assured, you won't encounter any hidden costs with BA Car Hire. The price you see during booking is the price you'll pay.

Professional and Experienced Drivers

Knowledgeable Chauffeurs

BA Car Hire's drivers are highly trained and have an in-depth knowledge of the best routes to Luton Airport. They will ensure you reach your destination safely and on time.

Punctuality and Reliability

Punctuality is a top priority for BA Car Hire. They understand the importance of timeliness, especially when catching a flight, and will always be at your pickup location on time.

Safety and Security

COVID-19 Safety Measures

In light of the ongoing pandemic, BA Car Hire strictly adheres to COVID-19 safety protocols. They sanitize their vehicles regularly and provide hand sanitizers for passengers' use.

24/7 Monitoring

For added security, BA Car Hire monitors their vehicles using advanced tracking systems round-the-clock. Your safety is their utmost concern.

Conclusion

Traveling from Heathrow to Luton Airport can be a stress-free experience with BA Car Hire. Their premium taxi service offers comfort, convenience, and safety at competitive prices. By choosing BA Car Hire, you can focus on enjoying your journey without worrying about transportation logistics.

Mastering the Art of Pizza Perfection: How Long to Cook Pizza at 450 Degrees

The love for pizza and its perfect cooking temperature

Pizza is undeniably one of the most beloved dishes worldwide, cherished for its delectable flavors and versatility. Whether it's a classic Margherita, a meat lover's paradise, or a veggie supreme, the art of pizza making lies not only in the choice of ingredients but also in mastering the cooking temperature. Achieving the perfect texture, flavor, and crust crispness can elevate a simple pizza into a gourmet delight. In this article, we will delve into the science behind the ideal cooking temperature for pizza and guide you on how to cook your pizza to perfection at 450 degrees Fahrenheit.

Understanding the importance of getting the cooking time right

The key to crafting a memorable pizza lies in understanding the science behind the cooking process. The temperature and cooking time play a crucial role in determining the final outcome of the pizza, affecting everything from crust texture to cheese melt. By achieving the optimal cooking time at 450 degrees, you can ensure that every pizza you make becomes a culinary masterpiece.

Setting the stage for a delicious pizza experience

Before we delve into the specifics of cooking at 450 degrees, let's lay the groundwork for a delightful pizza experience. From selecting the best dough and ingredients to enhancing flavors with seasonings and herbs, proper preparation is essential for crafting a pizza that will tantalize your taste buds.

The Science Behind the Ideal Cooking Temperature

Exploring the chemistry of pizza dough and toppings

The foundation of a great pizza lies in its dough. Understanding the science of dough fermentation, gluten development, and yeast activation is crucial in achieving the perfect crust texture. Moreover, we will explore how the heat interacts with the toppings, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.

How heat affects texture, taste, and overall quality

Temperature influences the physical and chemical transformations that occur during the cooking process. From the Maillard reaction that gives the crust its golden color and nutty flavor to the caramelization of sugars in toppings, heat plays a significant role in enhancing the taste and visual appeal of your pizza.

Why 450 degrees Fahrenheit is the sweet spot

Out of the many cooking temperatures that can be used for baking pizza, 450 degrees Fahrenheit strikes a balance between efficiency and optimal results. We will delve into why this temperature is favored by both home cooks and pizzerias alike.

Preparing Your Pizza for the Oven

Selecting the best pizza dough and ingredients

The quality of your pizza begins with the ingredients you choose. From the type of flour used for the dough to the selection of fresh and flavorful toppings, every component contributes to the overall taste.

Properly layering sauces, cheese, and toppings

The way you layer your pizza components affects its cooking and eating experience. We will explore the best order for layering sauces, cheese, and toppings to ensure a well-cooked and balanced pizza.

Enhancing flavors with seasonings and herbs

Spices and herbs are the secret ingredients that can take your pizza from ordinary to extraordinary. We will provide a list of popular seasonings and herbs that can add depth and complexity to your pizza's taste.

Oven Types and Preheating

Different types of ovens and their impact on cooking time

Whether you're using a traditional gas oven, an electric oven, or a modern convection oven, each type comes with its unique characteristics that influence the cooking time and results. Understanding these differences will help you adjust your cooking approach accordingly.

Understanding the preheating process for consistent results

Preheating your oven is a crucial step in achieving consistent and reliable cooking outcomes. We will discuss the importance of preheating and offer tips on how to preheat your oven effectively.

Tips for achieving an evenly heated oven

An oven with uneven heating can lead to undercooked or burnt spots on your pizza. We will provide strategies to ensure that your oven distributes heat evenly, giving you a uniformly cooked pizza.

Monitoring and Testing Your Oven's Temperature

Calibrating your oven thermometer for accuracy

An accurate oven thermometer is essential for precise cooking. We will guide you on how to calibrate your oven thermometer to ensure it displays the correct temperature.

Using alternative tools to measure oven temperature

For those without an oven thermometer, there are alternative methods to gauge the oven temperature accurately. We will discuss these methods to help you ensure your oven is at the optimal 450 degrees.

Ensuring the oven stays at a constant 450 degrees

Maintaining a consistent oven temperature throughout the cooking process is vital. We will share tips to keep your oven's temperature steady, avoiding fluctuations that could affect your pizza.

Factors Affecting Cooking Time

The size and thickness of your pizza

The size and thickness of your pizza directly impact the cooking time. We will explain how to adjust the cooking duration based on these factors.

Fresh versus frozen ingredients

Whether you are using fresh or frozen ingredients can influence the cooking time and overall outcome. We will explore the differences and considerations for both options.

Handling multiple pizzas simultaneously

Cooking multiple pizzas at once can be convenient, but it requires careful planning to ensure all pizzas are cooked to perfection. We will provide guidance on how to manage this process effectively.

Perfecting the Crust

Achieving the ideal crust texture and doneness

The crust is the foundation of any pizza, and achieving the desired texture is an art. We will discuss techniques to achieve the perfect balance of crispness and tenderness in your crust.

Avoiding undercooked or burnt edges

The crust edges can be particularly tricky to get right. We will provide tips to avoid undercooked or burnt edges, ensuring your pizza looks and tastes delightful.

Secrets to a crispy yet tender crust

The holy grail of pizza crust is a delicate balance between crispy and tender. We will share the secrets to attaining that perfect harmony.

Getting Cheese and Toppings Just Right

Preventing cheese from burning or overcooking

Cheese is a pivotal ingredient in any pizza, and overcooking it can ruin the entire experience. We will explain how to prevent cheese from burning while ensuring it melts beautifully.

Balancing toppings for even cooking

Different toppings have varying cooking times, which can pose a challenge. We will provide tips on achieving a well-balanced pizza with evenly cooked toppings.

Preserving the colors and flavors of toppings

The appearance and flavors of your toppings contribute to the overall visual appeal and taste of your pizza. We will share techniques to ensure your toppings retain their vibrant colors and original flavors.

Avoiding Common Pitfalls

Identifying and addressing cooking mishaps

Even the most seasoned pizza chefs encounter challenges in the kitchen. We will help you identify common cooking mishaps and provide solutions to overcome them.

Salvaging an overcooked or undercooked pizza

Mistakes happen, but that doesn't mean your pizza is beyond redemption. We will provide tips on salvaging overcooked or undercooked pizzas and turning them into enjoyable meals.

Learning from mistakes for future baking

Embracing a learning mindset is essential in the culinary world. We will encourage you to learn from any mistakes and use them to enhance your pizza-making skills.

Optimal Cooking Times for Different Pizza Types

Classic Margherita: A timeless Italian delight

The classic Margherita is a simple yet sophisticated pizza that requires precise cooking to highlight its fresh and delicate flavors. We will share the optimal cooking time to achieve pizza perfection.

Meat Lover's Paradise: Savoring the meaty goodness

For meat lovers, a pizza loaded with savory meats is a delight. We will provide guidance on cooking times to ensure the meats are cooked to perfection without compromising the overall taste.

Veggie Supreme: Delighting in fresh garden flavors

Vegetarian pizzas can be bursting with fresh flavors if cooked just right. We will help you find the ideal cooking time for veggie-loaded pizzas that please everyone's palates.

Exotic Pizzas: Exploring unique and adventurous combinations

For those seeking unique flavor experiences, exotic pizzas are the way to go. We will explore the cooking times for pizzas featuring unconventional ingredients.

Beyond 450 Degrees: Alternative Approaches

Exploring lower cooking temperatures for a unique taste

While 450 degrees is the sweet spot for many, some might prefer experimenting with lower temperatures for a different taste experience. We will discuss the possibilities and results of cooking pizza at lower temperatures.

Trying higher temperatures for a quick-bake pizza

In contrast, those seeking a quick-bake pizza might want to experiment with higher temperatures. We will guide you on how to achieve quick-bake results while still maintaining pizza perfection.

Experimenting with time and temperature adjustments

The cooking process allows room for creativity and experimentation. We will encourage you to venture into the realm of time and temperature adjustments, empowering you to create your unique pizza masterpieces.

Cooking Pizza at High Altitudes

Understanding the challenges at higher elevations

High altitudes can present unique challenges in pizza cooking. We will discuss the effects of altitude on cooking times and temperatures and how to adapt to these conditions.

Adjusting cooking time and temperature accordingly

With the knowledge of altitude's impact, we will help you adjust your cooking time and temperature to achieve the same pizza perfection at higher elevations.

The Art of Wood-Fired Pizza Ovens

Embracing tradition with wood-fired cooking

Wood-fired ovens have a rich history in pizza making and are still favored by many today. We will delve into the allure of wood-fired cooking and its impact on pizza.

Temperature management and cooking techniques

Mastering the art of wood-fired pizza cooking requires understanding temperature management and the unique cooking techniques involved. We will guide you through this process.

Unlocking rich flavors in wood-fired pizza

Wood-fired ovens impart a distinct flavor to pizzas. We will explore how to unlock those rich, smoky notes that make wood-fired pizzas so special.

Summary: Crafting Pizza Perfection

Emphasizing the significance of precise cooking time

Throughout this article, we have emphasized the importance of achieving the ideal cooking time to create the perfect pizza. Mastering this aspect will elevate your pizza-making skills and elevate the overall dining experience.

Celebrating the versatility and creativity of pizza-making

Pizza is a canvas for creativity, allowing you to experiment with flavors and combinations. We celebrate the joy of pizza-making and the endless possibilities it offers.

Encouraging readers to experiment and enjoy the process

As you embark on your pizza-making journey, we encourage you to embrace experimentation and enjoy the process of discovery. Each pizza you make is an opportunity to refine your skills and delight your taste buds.

Conclusion

Cooking pizza at 450 degrees Fahrenheit is a skill worth mastering. Through this article, we have explored the science, techniques, and factors that contribute to pizza perfection. As you embark on your pizza-making journey, remember that each pizza you bake is an opportunity for growth and experimentation. With knowledge in hand, it's time to let your creativity flow and embrace your inner pizza chef. Explore different toppings, sauces, and cooking methods to create your signature pizza that delights your palate.