Australia chasing 245 to beat England: Women’s Cricket World Cup – live

After a 22-year hiatus, the Ashes series in rugby league is set to return, and England's coach Shaun Wane is optimistic about the team's chances against the dominant Australian side. With a mix of experienced players and the exciting talent of Mikey Lewis, Wane believes they can create an upset. This long-awaited event not only revives a historic rivalry but also brings renewed excitement to rugby league fans, making it a significant moment in the sport's history.

In a concerning development, Australian scientists have detected signs of H5 avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, in elephant seals during a recent expedition to Heard Island. This discovery raises alarms about the potential spread of the virus and its impact on wildlife and public health. The situation is further complicated by the disappointment expressed by the author of the EPBC Act review regarding the Coalition's stance on environmental issues, highlighting ongoing tensions in Australian politics. As the nation grapples with these challenges, the implications for biodiversity and policy responses are significant.

In a tragic development, police have charged three additional men in connection with the murder of 45-year-old Thi Kim Tran, who was kidnapped in Sydney. This case has drawn significant attention due to its shocking nature and the alleged involvement of a 'kill crew' that reportedly sent a photo of Tran before her death. The ongoing investigation highlights the serious issues of violence and crime in urban areas, raising concerns about public safety and the effectiveness of law enforcement.

A groundbreaking development in cancer treatment is here, as thousands of men in England will soon have access to darolutamide, a drug that can significantly reduce the risk of death from advanced prostate cancer. This decision by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) means that at least 6,000 men with hormone-sensitive cancer will benefit from a treatment that not only blocks cancer growth but also comes with fewer side effects compared to existing options. This is a major step forward in improving the quality of life and survival rates for those affected by this disease.

India's women's cricket team has made a remarkable achievement by defeating New Zealand to secure the last spot in the semi-finals of the Women's Cricket World Cup. This victory is significant not only for the team's morale but also for the growing popularity of women's cricket in India. With standout performances from players like Pratika Rawal and Smriti Mandhana, the team is now poised to compete for the championship, inspiring many young athletes across the country.

Resident doctors in England are set to strike for five days next month, marking the 13th strike since 2023. NHS leaders warn that this action will complicate efforts to manage winter viruses and address the significant backlog of 7.4 million patients waiting for treatment. This strike highlights ongoing tensions within the healthcare system and raises concerns about patient care during a critical time.

Ellie, a woman now residing in Australia, shared her painful experience during a public inquiry in London, revealing how an undercover police officer deceived her into a year-long intimate relationship while she was involved in animal rights activism. This revelation highlights the deep mistrust many feel towards law enforcement, especially when such betrayal occurs. It raises important questions about the ethics of undercover operations and the impact they have on individuals and communities.

Donald Trump has stated that while Australia is set to receive the Aukus submarines, the ultimate decision lies with the US Navy. This is significant as it highlights the complexities of international defense agreements and the limitations of presidential power in military sales. The situation underscores the ongoing discussions about defense partnerships and the strategic importance of submarines in regional security.

Sheffield Wednesday has been hit with a 12-point deduction, but the football world is buzzing with Nottingham Forest's recent victory over Porto, marking their first clean sheet in 21 games. This win is significant as it breaks an eight-game winless streak under manager Ange Postecoglou, showcasing the team's potential to turn their season around. Fans are hopeful that this momentum will help them regain form and confidence as they navigate the challenges ahead.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer recently spoke with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky ahead of a meeting focused on strengthening support for Ukraine. Starmer expressed optimism about enhancing Ukraine's long-range weapons capabilities, highlighting the UK's commitment to assist in the ongoing conflict. This conversation is significant as it underscores the international effort to bolster Ukraine's defense amidst ongoing challenges, reflecting a united front against aggression.

Ukrainian President Zelensky is set to meet with a coalition of supportive nations to secure more arms for Ukraine, building on recent discussions in Brussels that focused on enhancing the country's air defenses. While the addition of Finland and Spain to the coalition is a positive development, Ukraine faces challenges as EU leaders have delayed a crucial decision regarding the use of frozen Russian assets to facilitate a significant loan. This meeting is important as it highlights ongoing international support for Ukraine amidst the ongoing conflict.

Ontario Premier Doug Ford has expressed concern following U.S. President Donald Trump's decision to halt all trade negotiations due to a TV ad criticizing tariffs. This move highlights the ongoing tensions between Canada and the U.S. regarding trade policies, which could have significant implications for the economy and cross-border relations. Ford's response underscores the importance of maintaining open dialogue and cooperation in trade matters.

Alberta teachers, led by Ewelina Warchol, expressed their frustration during a protest against a proposed back-to-work order at the Alberta legislature. This discontent highlights the ongoing struggles educators face in the province, raising concerns about their rights and working conditions. The protest, marked by chants and symbolic gestures like dumping potatoes, underscores the urgency of addressing these issues, as they directly impact the quality of education and the morale of teachers.

Angelina Melnikova has made headlines by winning her first world vault title at the 2025 Artistic Gymnastics World Championships in Jakarta, adding to her earlier all-around victory this week. This achievement not only highlights her exceptional talent and hard work but also boosts her profile in the gymnastics community, inspiring young athletes around the world. Melnikova's success is a testament to her dedication and the growing prominence of gymnastics on the global stage.