England beware: terminally obsessed Marnus Labuschagne has gone back to basics | Jonathan Liew

Australia's cricket captain Pat Cummins is likely to miss the first Test of the Ashes series against England in Perth due to ongoing concerns about his fitness. He has not yet resumed bowling as he recovers from a back injury, raising questions about his availability for the entire series. This situation is significant as Cummins plays a crucial role in the team's performance, and his absence could impact Australia's chances in this highly anticipated competition.

Australia's cricket captain Pat Cummins is likely to miss the first Test of the Ashes series against England in Perth due to ongoing concerns about his fitness. He has not yet resumed bowling as he recovers from a back injury, raising questions about his availability for the entire series. This situation is significant as Cummins plays a crucial role in the team's performance, and his absence could impact Australia's chances in this highly anticipated competition.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced an exciting new trade deal with India that will see three Bollywood blockbusters produced in the UK. This initiative not only highlights the growing cultural ties between the two nations but also opens up new opportunities for the UK film industry. Additionally, two British universities are set to establish campuses in India, further strengthening educational collaboration. This deal is significant as it showcases the UK's commitment to enhancing international partnerships and boosting its creative economy.

Professor Mark Bray, an expert on anti-fascism at Rutgers University, faced a troubling incident when he was blocked from flying to Spain after receiving death threats. This occurred just a day after a White House roundtable hosted by Donald Trump that focused on 'antifa.' The situation raises significant concerns about academic freedom and the safety of scholars who engage in controversial topics, especially in a politically charged environment.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has stated that the ongoing Ukrainian counteroffensive has disrupted Russian plans to seize parts of Donetsk. He accused Russia of attempting to create chaos through attacks on energy and rail infrastructure, while highlighting that Ukrainian long-range strikes have led to gas shortages in Russia. This situation is significant as it showcases Ukraine's resilience and strategic capabilities in the face of aggression, potentially altering the dynamics of the conflict.

China's recent decision to limit rare earth exports is seen as a strategic move to enhance its bargaining power in upcoming trade discussions with the U.S. This development is significant as it could impact global supply chains and the dynamics of international trade, especially in light of the anticipated meeting between President Trump and President Xi.

In a significant development, US President Donald Trump announced that Israel and Hamas have reached an agreement on the first phase of a ceasefire plan aimed at pausing the ongoing conflict in Gaza. This plan includes the potential release of hostages and prisoners, which could happen within days. This news is crucial as it offers a glimmer of hope for peace in a region that has seen prolonged violence, and it highlights the importance of diplomatic efforts in resolving such conflicts.

Negotiators are making progress on a hostage deal that could pave the way for a resolution to the ongoing conflict in Israel. This agreement is significant as it may lead to a broader plan for ending the war, addressing larger uncertainties that have persisted. The upcoming vote in Israel adds urgency to these discussions, highlighting the importance of finding common ground to ensure peace.