Bats are seeking sanctuary in churches - but they're making an unholy mess

Mary Earps, the former England goalkeeper, opens up about her journey through international retirement, her struggles with eating and alcohol, and her thoughts on the reality show The Traitors. She reflects on her experiences with a sense of gratitude, emphasizing the lessons learned and the importance of focusing on what truly matters in life. Her story is not just about sports but also about personal growth and resilience, making it relatable to many who face their own challenges.

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.

In an exciting finish, New Zealand triumphed over England in the third men's ODI, completing a series sweep. This victory not only showcases New Zealand's cricketing prowess but also boosts their confidence ahead of future competitions. Fans are thrilled as the team continues to build momentum, proving their strength on home soil.

As the Ashes series approaches, England is urged to embrace their unique style of play, known as Bazball, which has garnered attention and admiration. This approach not only entertains but also challenges traditional cricket norms, making the upcoming matches even more exciting. The buzz around the series reflects the growing anticipation among fans and players alike, highlighting the significance of this rivalry in the cricketing world.

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.

Former England goalkeeper Mary Earps has publicly announced her happy same-sex relationship, a move that has been warmly supported by her former Lionesses teammates. This announcement is significant as it highlights the growing acceptance and visibility of LGBTQ+ individuals in sports, encouraging others to embrace their identities.

In a revealing excerpt from her autobiography, goalkeeper Mary Earps shares the emotional turmoil she experienced following her unexpected exit from the England national team. Reflecting on the supportive environment of the team, she highlights the contrast between her feelings of safety and the shock of her departure. This story matters as it sheds light on the personal struggles athletes face behind the scenes, emphasizing the importance of mental health and emotional well-being in sports.

The Wallabies are showing promising signs as they prepare for their upcoming clash against England, reminiscent of their victory at Twickenham last year. This resurgence is crucial as it marks a significant turnaround for Australia, who have been striving to regain their competitive edge in rugby. The team's return to their free-running style of play is not just about winning; it's about restoring confidence and excitement in their game, which fans and players alike have been eager to see.

This week in football is packed with excitement as Liverpool prepares to face Aston Villa, followed by a crucial Champions League match against Real Madrid and a showdown with Manchester City. The Premier League is heating up, and fans are eager to see how defending champions Liverpool will perform under pressure. With key matches on the horizon, the outcomes could significantly impact the league standings and the teams' morale.

A tragic stampede at a temple in Andhra Pradesh, India, has resulted in the deaths of at least nine people. Authorities have announced that disciplinary action will be taken against the privately-run temple for failing to secure the necessary official approvals. This incident highlights the importance of safety regulations in crowded places, especially during religious events, to prevent such devastating occurrences in the future.

The upcoming mayoral election in New York City is generating significant attention, as its implications reach well beyond the city's five boroughs. With candidates like Zohran Mamdani in the mix, the election is poised to influence not just local policies but also broader discussions on governance and community engagement. This election matters because it reflects the changing dynamics of urban leadership and the priorities of its diverse electorate.

Derek Huffman, a US national, has expressed his gratitude to President Vladimir Putin for granting him Russian citizenship. This development highlights the growing ties between individuals from the US and Russia, showcasing a personal journey that transcends political boundaries. Huffman's pride in his new citizenship reflects a unique perspective on identity and belonging, especially in a time of complex international relations.

In a heartfelt tribute, Serbian students organized a powerful memorial to honor the 16 victims of last year's railway disaster in Novi Sad. The event featured a poignant 16 minutes of silence, symbolizing the lives lost and the impact of the tragedy on the community. This act of remembrance not only pays respect to those who perished but also highlights the importance of safety and awareness in public transportation, fostering a sense of unity and resilience among the attendees.

Israel has announced that the remains of three individuals recently returned from Gaza by Hamas do not belong to any of the hostages, marking a significant setback in the ongoing negotiations for a U.S.-brokered ceasefire. This development raises concerns about the future of peace talks and the fate of those still unaccounted for, highlighting the complexities and challenges in the region.