Green party reaches 100,000 members for first time after Polanski becomes leader

Australia's cricket captain Pat Cummins has revealed that he is unlikely to participate in the first Ashes Test against England, scheduled for November 21 in Perth. He mentioned that he is 'less likely than likely' to be fit for the match, as he is still weeks away from returning to full bowling. This news is significant as Cummins' absence could impact Australia's chances in the prestigious series, highlighting the challenges teams face with player fitness.

A recent report by Hamptons reveals that millennials now represent half of all new buy-to-let investors in England and Wales, marking a significant generational shift in the rental market. This trend is particularly noteworthy as many millennials have faced challenges in affording home purchases. The increase in millennial investors could reshape the rental landscape, especially as rents have recently dipped, making it an opportune time for this age group to enter the market.

Craig Bellamy is optimistic about Wales' chances in their upcoming World Cup qualifier against Belgium. He believes a 'special moment' is on the horizon, especially after Belgium's recent draw with North Macedonia. A win for Wales in Cardiff would significantly boost their chances of automatic qualification, making this match crucial for the team's future. Bellamy's positive outlook is infectious, and it highlights the importance of this game for Welsh football.

Plaid Cymru has announced its support for a white paper on independence for Wales, although it will not pursue this goal within the first term of government. This decision is significant as it reflects the party's long-term vision for Welsh autonomy, while also acknowledging the practicalities of governance in the short term. By prioritizing other issues initially, Plaid aims to build a stronger foundation for future discussions on independence.

In a thrilling match in Colombo, England's captain Nat Sciver-Brunt played a pivotal role in leading her team to victory over Sri Lanka. After a shaky start at 168 for six, Sciver-Brunt's impressive century of 117 runs helped England post a total of 253-9, ultimately winning by 89 runs. This match not only showcased her resilience but also highlighted the team's ability to bounce back under pressure, making it a significant moment in their campaign.

In an impressive display, England secured an 89-run victory over Sri Lanka in the Women's Cricket World Cup. This win not only boosts England's confidence but also highlights their strong performance in the tournament, making them a formidable contender. The match showcased the skills of players like Beaumont and Jones, who played pivotal roles in the team's success. Such victories are crucial as they build momentum and support for women's cricket on a global stage.

The political landscape in Wales is shifting, and the question on everyone's mind is whether the emerging leader is prepared to take the reins of governance. With the stakes higher than ever, the ability to navigate the complexities of politics will be crucial for success. This situation matters because effective leadership can significantly impact the future of Wales and its citizens.

Madeline Horwath's latest cartoon humorously depicts St George's return to England, offering a light-hearted take on a traditional figure. This cartoon matters as it reflects contemporary cultural commentary, blending humor with historical references, and engages audiences in a playful discussion about national identity.

England's cricketers are gearing up for a demanding winter tour that will be crucial for their chances in the upcoming Ashes and World Cup. With a packed schedule ahead, players are aware of the challenges they will face, reminiscent of Mike Gatting's concerns about the intense 30-game schedule from decades ago. This tour is significant not only for the team's performance but also for the future of cricket in England, as it tests the players' endurance and skill on an international stage.

Thomas Tuchel's experience at PSG taught him the importance of teamwork over individual star power, a lesson he must apply as he takes on his new role. His time at PSG was marked by frustration when players failed to work collectively, which ultimately hindered their success. As he transitions to coaching in England, Tuchel's focus on building a cohesive unit will be crucial for achieving results and avoiding the pitfalls of past experiences.

Plaid Cymru leader Rhun ap Iorwerth is rallying support as he aims to challenge the long-standing dominance of Labour in Wales ahead of the upcoming May elections. He believes this is a pivotal moment for his party to bring about significant change in the region. This election is crucial as it could reshape the political landscape in Wales, offering voters a fresh alternative and potentially ending a century of Labour governance.

Harry Brook has expressed optimism about England's chances in the upcoming Ashes series, especially with Australian captain Pat Cummins likely missing the first Test due to injury. Brook acknowledges that while this could benefit England, Australia's strong pool of pace bowlers means they shouldn't be taken lightly. This situation adds an intriguing layer to the series, as both teams prepare for a fiercely competitive showdown.

Senator Lidia Thorpe has clarified her recent comments made at a pro-Gaza rally in Melbourne, stating that her remark about burning down Parliament House was intended as a metaphor. She described the backlash as 'mock outrage' that diverts attention from the real suffering of Palestinians. This situation highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding political discourse in Australia and raises questions about freedom of speech and the interpretation of political statements.

In a significant development, the Israeli military has confirmed the release of the first seven hostages to the Red Cross in Gaza, with expectations that all remaining hostages will be freed soon. This news is crucial as it marks a hopeful step towards resolving the ongoing crisis and restoring peace in the region. Additionally, Donald Trump is set to arrive in Israel, potentially influencing future negotiations and efforts for stability.

Sébastien Lecornu has officially taken office as the French Prime Minister, stepping into a challenging role as his government faces urgent pressure to produce a budget amidst rising political turmoil. This situation is causing concern among businesses and investors, potentially impacting France's reputation. Lecornu's ability to navigate these challenges and seek compromises will be crucial to avoid a no-confidence vote in the National Assembly, making this a pivotal moment for his administration.

In a troubling development, Victoria police are uncertain about the status of Dezi Freeman, raising concerns about his well-being. Meanwhile, the Australian Federal Police (AFP) are looking into comments made by Lidia Thorpe at a pro-Palestine rally, which adds another layer of complexity to the ongoing discussions surrounding political statements and public safety. These events highlight the challenges faced by authorities in maintaining order and addressing public concerns, making it a significant moment in Australian news.

In Pakistan, indigenous knowledge is playing a crucial role in combating climate change, especially in vulnerable areas where residents have lost trust in government efforts despite significant investments in early warning systems. This approach not only empowers local communities but also enhances resilience against climate impacts, showcasing the importance of integrating traditional wisdom with modern strategies.

The recent by-election in Caerphilly has garnered significant attention, highlighting its importance beyond merely electing a representative to Cardiff Bay. This event reflects the community's engagement in local politics and the potential for change in governance. It matters because it showcases how local elections can influence broader political dynamics and encourage civic participation.