New Zealand v England: first men’s T20 cricket international hit by rain – as it happened

In a thrilling T20 opener against New Zealand, England's Sam Curran shone with an unbeaten 49 runs, showcasing his value to the team as highlighted by Harry Brook. Despite the rain disrupting the match, Curran's performance stands out, especially as England faced challenges early on. This match is significant as it marks the beginning of England's winter cricket season, and Curran's contribution could be pivotal for the team's morale and strategy moving forward.

Phoebe Litchfield, a rising star in women's cricket, is drawing inspiration from captain Alyssa Healy, who has recently achieved remarkable back-to-back centuries and surpassed 7,000 international runs. With Australia securing a spot in the semi-finals, Litchfield is excited to learn from Healy as they prepare to face England next. This mentorship is crucial for Litchfield's development and highlights the strength of Australia's cricketing future.

Recent research highlights the revival of tā moko, the traditional Māori tattooing, as master artists demonstrate their craft in New Zealand's national museum. This resurgence not only showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Māori people but also emphasizes the importance of preserving and sharing these ancient practices. As more people engage with this art form, it fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation of Māori identity and history, making it a significant cultural moment.

Three neo-Nazi extremists have been sentenced to prison for plotting terrorist attacks on mosques and synagogues in England, highlighting the ongoing threat of far-right extremism. With over 200 weapons in their possession, these individuals were part of a group that communicated online, demonstrating how dangerous ideologies can lead to violent intentions. This case serves as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance against hate-driven violence in society.

Sadia Kabeya, a key player in England's Rugby World Cup victory, shared her emotional journey of fitting in and finding her identity within the sport. After a challenging final against Canada, the moment of triumph at Twickenham was overwhelming for her, especially when she embraced her teammate Lucy Packer. Kabeya's story highlights the importance of representation in sports, as meeting other players who share her background has helped her feel more confident and authentic. This victory not only marks a significant achievement for the Red Roses but also inspires others to embrace their true selves.

Brendon McCullum has strengthened England's coaching team by bringing back David Saker as a special skills consultant for the upcoming Ashes series. Saker, who has previously contributed to England's success in three Ashes series, will be instrumental in preparing the team against Australia. This move is significant as it reflects McCullum's commitment to enhancing England's performance and strategy in one of cricket's most prestigious tournaments.

For the first time, the NHS in England and Wales will offer a groundbreaking HIV protection jab, providing an alternative to daily pills. This innovative shot, administered six times a year or every other month, represents a significant advancement in the fight against HIV, making prevention more accessible and convenient for many. It’s a crucial step towards reducing the stigma around HIV and improving public health.

A groundbreaking long-acting injection for HIV prevention is on the verge of approval in England and Wales, providing a significant alternative to daily pills. This innovative jab, which is administered every two months, could transform the way individuals protect themselves against the virus, making it easier and more convenient for many. The approval of this injection is a crucial step forward in public health, potentially reducing the spread of HIV and improving the quality of life for those at risk.

The Red Cross has received two bodies that Hamas claims are hostages from Gaza, following significant outrage in Israel over the group's failure to return all deceased hostages. This development highlights the ongoing tensions and humanitarian concerns surrounding the situation in Gaza, as families await the return of their loved ones.

Millions of Americans took to the streets in a nationwide protest against former President Trump, with prominent Democratic lawmakers like Bernie Sanders and Chuck Schumer joining the movement. This 'No Kings' protest highlights a significant moment in American political activism, showcasing widespread discontent and the mobilization of citizens advocating for democratic values. The event not only reflects the current political climate but also emphasizes the importance of civic engagement in shaping the future of the nation.

Max Verstappen clinched victory in the sprint race ahead of the US Grand Prix, showcasing his exceptional driving skills at the Circuit of the Americas. This win is significant as it sets the stage for the main event, with Verstappen's impressive lap time of 1:32.413 bringing him close to the qualifying record. The collision between Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri added drama to the race, highlighting the competitive nature of Formula 1. Fans are eager to see how this momentum will carry into the main race.

In a recent statement, President Trump announced that the US will repatriate survivors from a strike on a submarine allegedly carrying drugs. This marks the sixth US military action against Venezuelan vessels in recent weeks, highlighting ongoing tensions and efforts to combat drug trafficking in the region. The situation is significant as it underscores the US's commitment to addressing narcotics issues while also raising questions about international relations and military engagement.

In Los Angeles' Leimert Park, Desmond Carter is making a significant impact by leading a bi-monthly mental health group specifically for Black men. This initiative provides a safe and supportive environment where participants can openly share their experiences and prioritize their mental well-being. The importance of such spaces cannot be overstated, as they foster healing and community among Black men, addressing a critical need for mental health support in a demographic often overlooked.

The recent anti-Trump protests have mobilized massive crowds across more than 2,500 cities in the United States, including major hubs like New York, Washington D.C., Atlanta, and Los Angeles. This wave of activism highlights the growing discontent among citizens regarding current political leadership, showcasing a collective demand for change and accountability. Such widespread participation not only amplifies voices of dissent but also reinforces the importance of civic engagement in shaping the future of democracy.