Sports quiz of the week: prizes, punches, persistence and set-piece perfection

England's cricket team faced another disappointing defeat as New Zealand completed a 3-0 sweep in the ODI series. Despite showing some resilience, England struggled throughout the match, finishing with 222 runs while New Zealand secured victory with 226-8. This loss highlights ongoing challenges for England in white-ball cricket, raising concerns about their performance as they prepare to transition to red-ball cricket. Fans are left hoping for improvements in the upcoming formats.

England's rugby captain Maro Itoje emphasizes the importance of showcasing their full strength as they prepare to face Australia in the first match of their autumn series. This game marks the beginning of four home internationals in November, and Itoje's leadership will be crucial for the team's performance. The match is significant not only for the players but also for fans eager to see how England will compete against a formidable opponent like Australia.

The Premier League has confirmed its festive fixture lineup, generating excitement among fans and players alike. This announcement is significant as it sets the stage for thrilling matches during the holiday season, a time when football traditionally draws large audiences. With press conferences and insights from key figures like John Brewin and Dominic Booth, fans can look forward to an engaging weekend of football action.

Chantelle Cameron, a prominent British boxer, has made a bold statement by vacating her WBC light-welterweight title to protest the unequal treatment of female fighters in the sport. This move highlights the ongoing struggle for gender equality in boxing, as Cameron seeks to draw attention to the need for female athletes to compete under the same rules as their male counterparts. Her actions not only challenge the status quo but also inspire conversations about fairness and equality in sports.

The recent Cricket World Cup victory of India's women's team over Australia has not only thrilled fans but also sparked a broader conversation about women's empowerment in India. As cricket holds a special place in the hearts of many, this win serves as a powerful reminder of the potential for sports to challenge societal norms and promote gender equality. The celebration of this victory by thousands in Mumbai highlights the growing support for women's sports and the importance of reclaiming public spaces for women, making it a significant moment in both sports and social change.

The upcoming FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar in 2025 is generating excitement as it will feature 48 teams for the first time, expanding the tournament's reach and inclusivity. This change not only highlights the growing popularity of youth football but also provides a platform for young talents to showcase their skills on an international stage. Fans can look forward to a thrilling competition that promises to be a significant event in the football calendar.

A tragic incident has occurred in Australia where a teenage cricketer lost his life during a training session after being struck in the neck by a ball. This heartbreaking event echoes the unfortunate death of Australian international cricketer Phil Hughes, highlighting the dangers associated with the sport. Such accidents remind us of the importance of safety measures in sports, especially for young athletes.

The tragic death of 17-year-old Ben Austin, who was fatally struck by a cricket ball during practice, has sparked a heartfelt campaign called #batsoutforben across Australia's cricket community. This initiative not only honors Ben's memory but also raises awareness about safety in the sport, particularly the importance of wearing protective gear like neck guards. Cricket officials have emphasized their support for both Ben's family and the young player who threw the ball, highlighting the community's commitment to healing and safety.

As the Premier League enters its fourth month, today's matches feature Burnley facing Arsenal and Nottingham Forest taking on Manchester United. These games are crucial as teams strive to improve their standings and fans eagerly anticipate the outcomes. The excitement of live football continues to engage supporters, making it a significant day in the sports calendar.

The recent report on HMP Chelmsford reveals serious flaws in the prison's release procedures, which led to the accidental release of a convicted child sex offender. This situation highlights the urgent need for reform in the prison system to prevent such dangerous oversights in the future. With warnings from a watchdog about prisoners 'falling through the cracks,' it's clear that immediate action is necessary to ensure public safety and restore trust in the justice system.

Newly released emails reveal that Andrew Mountbatten Windsor, the former Duke of York, expressed a desire to meet convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein shortly after his prison release. This revelation comes just days after Andrew was stripped of his royal titles, highlighting ongoing controversies surrounding his associations. The correspondence raises questions about judgment and accountability, especially in light of Epstein's notorious criminal history.

The tragic shooting at a Michigan church, where ex-marine Thomas Jacob Sanford killed four people and set the building on fire, has been attributed to his anti-religious beliefs against the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, according to the FBI. This incident highlights the alarming rise of violence motivated by extremist ideologies, raising concerns about safety in places of worship and the need for better mental health support and community awareness.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney recently apologized to US President Donald Trump regarding a controversial advertisement from the Ontario government that referenced Ronald Reagan. This incident highlights the delicate nature of political communications between Canada and the US, especially in the context of historical figures and their legacies. Carney's apology may help to smooth relations and avoid further misunderstandings.

The RSF is facing serious accusations of staging arrests of its own soldiers in an attempt to shift blame for the mass atrocities occurring in el-Fasher, Sudan. This situation is alarming as it raises questions about accountability and the ongoing violence in the region, highlighting the dire need for international attention and intervention.