England chasing 320 to beat South Africa: Women’s Cricket World Cup semi-final – live

Housebuilders are expressing concerns that the government's target of building 1.5 million new homes in England is overly ambitious. This matters because failing to meet housing targets can exacerbate the ongoing housing crisis, making it harder for people to find affordable homes and potentially impacting the economy.

In a disappointing turn of events, England's cricket team faced another defeat against New Zealand, losing the second ODI by five wickets. Despite Jofra Archer's impressive return to the game, the team's batting struggles led to a total of just 175 runs, which proved insufficient. Daryl Mitchell's unbeaten 56 helped secure the win for New Zealand, highlighting England's ongoing issues with consistency. This loss not only means the series is lost for England but also raises questions about their performance as they head into future matches.

England's rugby coach Shaun Wane faces crucial decisions ahead of the second Test, particularly regarding his halfback combination and the selection of his pack. After a disappointing performance, Wane is urged to make bold changes to improve the team's chances against Australia. This situation is significant as it highlights the pressure on Wane to adapt and innovate, which could ultimately determine England's success in the series.

Rhiannon Lucy Cosslett highlights the importance of play in early childhood education, arguing that the current rigid classroom structure in England fails to cater to young children's innate learning needs. Ruth Lue-Quee, a former deputy headteacher, emphasizes that childhood should not be confined to traditional schooling, advocating for a system that embraces play as a fundamental aspect of learning. This perspective is crucial as it challenges outdated educational practices and calls for a more nurturing approach that recognizes the value of play in fostering creativity and development in young learners.

The second men's cricket one-day international between New Zealand and England is underway, with live updates available. As the match progresses, players like Jamie Smith and Joe Root are making notable contributions. This match is significant as it showcases the competitive spirit of international cricket and provides fans with exciting moments to follow.

France's hopes of winning the Nations League have come to an end after a 2-2 draw against Germany in the semi-final return leg. This result means that Germany will advance to face Spain in the final, leaving French fans disappointed. The match showcased the competitive spirit of both teams, but ultimately, France's inability to secure a win means they will miss out on the chance to claim the title.

A recent report from the National Audit Office reveals a troubling trend in England's hospice care system, where nearly two-thirds of independent hospices are operating at a deficit. Despite a growing demand for palliative care, many hospices are forced to cut hundreds of beds and staff, leading to a significant disparity in access to end-of-life services. This situation highlights the urgent need for increased funding and support for hospices to ensure that everyone can receive the care they need during such a critical time.

The NHS has taken a significant step by making the morning-after pill available for free at pharmacies across England, eliminating the need for individuals to visit a GP or sexual health clinic. This move aims to address the disparities in access to emergency contraception, often referred to as a 'postcode lottery.' With nearly 10,000 pharmacies participating, this initiative not only enhances accessibility but also empowers individuals to take control of their reproductive health without the added barrier of cost or clinic visits.

South Korea is in discussions with the U.S. regarding its desire to acquire nuclear-powered submarines, a move that could significantly bolster its economy and enhance regional security. Donald Trump has indicated that talks are progressing well, with both sides optimistic about reaching an agreement. This potential deal is crucial not only for South Korea's defense capabilities but also for the broader geopolitical landscape in the region, as it reflects shifting power dynamics and the importance of military partnerships.

Hadush Kebatu, a migrant sex offender, received £500 after threatening to disrupt his deportation. This incident raises concerns about the treatment of deportees and the implications of compensating individuals with criminal backgrounds. It highlights the complexities surrounding immigration enforcement and the balance between public safety and human rights.

In the Women's Cricket World Cup semi-final, England is set to chase a challenging target of 320 runs after South Africa's Wolvaardt scored an impressive 169. This match is crucial as it determines who will advance to the finals, highlighting the competitive spirit and skill in women's cricket. England, known for their strong fielding, will need to perform exceptionally to overcome this daunting challenge and secure their place in the championship.

Hurricane Melissa has caused significant destruction as it hits Cuba with winds reaching 120 mph, prompting the evacuation of hundreds of thousands. Jamaica has also declared a disaster area due to the storm's devastating impact, which includes life-threatening flooding. This situation is critical as it highlights the increasing severity of natural disasters and the urgent need for preparedness and response strategies in vulnerable regions.

Carmakers in the EU are on the brink of halting production due to a severe chip crisis exacerbated by China's export ban. The European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association has warned that manufacturers are relying on dwindling reserves of Nexperia chips, and without a resolution, production lines could close within days. This situation is critical as it not only impacts the automotive industry but also has broader implications for the economy and supply chains, highlighting the vulnerabilities in global manufacturing.

Boeing is facing a significant setback as it takes a nearly $5 billion hit due to delays in delivering its first 777X jets. These jets are crucial to Boeing's long-term strategy, but certification and production issues have postponed deliveries by several years. This situation not only impacts Boeing's financial standing but also affects its reputation in the aerospace industry, highlighting the challenges faced by manufacturers in meeting timelines and maintaining investor confidence.