With just two sleeps until the Champions Trophy final, the Dubai ground staff are preparing the playing square diligently. Despite the pitch being previously used, the ECB ensures a two-week rest period for pitches. The hot weather is influencing pitch conditions, with ground staff taking measures to protect it under covers, anticipating slower behavior for the title clash.
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Israel launched airstrikes on multiple locations in Lebanon, killing at least six people in retaliation for a rocket attack. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered strikes on Hezbollah targets, raising concerns about the fragile ceasefire. Hezbollah denied responsibility for the attack, and Lebanese leadership stressed they do not seek a return to war.
During the Brisbane Test's fourth day, Sunil Gavaskar criticized Mohammed Siraj's risky single with Ravindra Jadeja, nearly causing a run-out. Gavaskar questioned Siraj's cricketing awareness as a number nine batsman. Despite this, Jasprit Bumrah and Akash Deep forged a crucial last-wicket stand, helping India avoid the follow-on.
Allahabad High Court orders cleaning of a mosque in Sambhal following an ASI report stating whitewashing is unnecessary. The Masjid Committee plans to file objections against the order amid ongoing legal disputes. The mosque gained attention after violence erupted during a Jama Mosque survey in November 2024.
Outgoing US President Joe Biden warned against the rise of oligarchy and the tech-industrial complex undermining democracy. He criticized the flood of misinformation, highlighting social media's role in spreading falsehoods. Biden stressed continuing climate action and technological leadership, warning about the influence of powerful forces. His farewell address emphasized safeguarding democracy, truth, and the environment.
The 2025 ICC Champions Trophy will follow a hybrid model. Pakistan will host the tournament. Matches involving India will occur at a neutral venue. Mohammad Amir welcomed the decision. He emphasized the importance of the India-Pakistan clash. The ICC also announced hybrid models for other tournaments. These include the 2025 Women's World Cup and the 2026 Men's T20 World Cup.
Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar shared a video showcasing the impressive bowling action of Sushila Meena, a young talent from rural Rajasthan. Tendulkar likened her smooth left-arm pace to that of Zaheer Khan, sparking widespread praise and highlighting the untapped potential in India's grassroots cricket. This recognition could open doors to a brighter future for young talents like Sushila.
Sydel Curry-Lee has revealed Zoe Saldana as her ultimate woman crush in her new podcast Straight to Cam. The podcast, which launched in January 2025, features conversations with co-host Cameron Brink. Curry-Lee and her husband Damion Lee are expecting their third child in May 2025. The Curry family explores podcasting and media alongside their basketball careers.
Chandigarh BJP won the Mayor election, defeating the Congress-AAP alliance candidate Premlata. Despite more votes for the alliance, three votes crossed over to BJP's candidate Harpreet Kaur Babla, who received 19 votes against 17. All 36 votes were valid. Babla and BJP councillors celebrated the victory, and the election process for senior deputy mayor and deputy mayor began.
Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah was killed in an Israeli airstrike on 27 September 2023, confirmed by senior Hezbollah official Wafiq Safa. His death marked a major escalation in the conflict, leading to a ceasefire on 27 November 2023, but tensions remain high.
The Oscars, each worth $400, are produced with precision and come with strict regulations prohibiting winners from selling them without first offering them back to the Academy for $1. An auction loophole allowed pre-1951 Oscars to be sold for over $3 million, highlighting the trophies' immense cultural and financial value.