<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/facebook-to-tighten-live-stream-access-after-mosque-attacks-206634">Facebook</a> will block election advertising from outside <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australias-economy-slows-ahead-of-election-201452">Australia ahead of polls next month</a>, in the wake of growing criticism of the social media giant's role in the spread of disinformation.

The restrictions -- already rolled out for polls in other countries such as Thailand and Indonesia -- will come into force when the government announces the election date in the coming days.

"We're temporarily not allowing electoral ads purchased from outside Australia ahead of the election in May," Facebook's Australia and New Zealand policy director Mia Garlick said in a statement.

"The restriction... will apply to ads we determine to be coming from foreign entities that are of an electoral nature, meaning they contain references to politicians, parties or election suppression.

"We also won't allow foreign ads that include political slogans and party logos."

Facebook said it has introduced restrictions on foreign electoral ads in countries including Nigeria, Ukraine, Thailand, Indonesia, and Ireland around its May 2018 referendum on abortion.&nbsp;

For the European Parliamentary elections, it requires advertisers to be authorised in their country to run ads related to the vote.

The world's biggest social network first began looking into its influence on elections after revelations of Russian influence campaigns during the 2016 US election.

Critics have accused the US firm of being too slow to act.

AFP has a global fact-checking network that is dedicated to verifying and debunking disinformation spread online.&nbsp;

Some of this content is flagged on Facebook, as part of a contract between AFP and the social media company. AFP's collaboration with Facebook has just been extended to Australia.

Facebook will block election advertising from outside Australia ahead of polls next month, in the wake of growing criticism of the social media giant's role in the spread of disinformation.

Facebook will block election advertising from outside Australia ahead of polls next month, in the wake of growing criticism of the social media giant's role in the spread of disinformation. The restrictions -- already rolled out for polls in other countries such as Thailand and Indonesia -- will come into force when the government announces the election date in the coming days. "We're temporarily not allowing electoral ads purchased from outside Australia ahead of the election in May," Facebook's Australia and New Zealand policy director Mia Garlick said in a statement. "The restriction... will apply to ads we determine to be coming from foreign entities that are of an electoral nature, meaning they contain references to politicians, parties or election suppression. "We also won't allow foreign ads that include political slogans and party logos." Facebook said it has introduced restrictions on foreign electoral ads in countries including Nigeria, Ukraine, Thailand, Indonesia, and Ireland around its May 2018 referendum on abortion. For the European Parliamentary elections, it requires advertisers to be authorised in their country to run ads related to the vote. The world's biggest social network first began looking into its influence on elections after revelations of Russian influence campaigns during the 2016 US election. Critics have accused the US firm of being too slow to act. AFP has a global fact-checking network that is dedicated to verifying and debunking disinformation spread online. Some of this content is flagged on Facebook, as part of a contract between AFP and the social media company. AFP's collaboration with Facebook has just been extended to Australia.

Facebook to block foreign ads for Australia election

India rose two spots in the latest FIFA rankings, but just missed the top 100.&nbsp;

India are now ranked 101st in the world and 18th in Asia.&nbsp;

Iran continued to top the Asian rankings; they are ranked 21st in the world, followed by Japan (26), South Korea (37), Australia (41) and Qatar (55).

Belgium remained top of the rankings with 1737 points, ahead of France (1734), Brazil (1676), England (1647) and Croatia (1621).&nbsp;

India have&nbsp;been in the top 100 before.

One reason for their poor ranking is the few international matches that they play — India for example has not played an international match since the last rankings on February 7 — the more you play, the higher you move up the rankings.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

India rose two spots in the latest FIFA rankings, but just missed the top 100. India are now ranked 101st in the world and 18th in Asia. Iran continued to top the Asian rankings; they are ranked 21st in the world, followed by Japan (26), South Korea (37), Australia (41) and Qatar (55).

India rose two spots in the latest FIFA rankings, but just missed the top 100. India are now ranked 101st in the world and 18th in Asia. Iran continued to top the Asian rankings; they are ranked 21st in the world, followed by Japan (26), South Korea (37), Australia (41) and Qatar (55). Belgium remained top of the rankings with 1737 points, ahead of France (1734), Brazil (1676), England (1647) and Croatia (1621). India have been in the top 100 before. One reason for their poor ranking is the few international matches that they play — India for example has not played an international match since the last rankings on February 7 — the more you play, the higher you move up the rankings.

FIFA rankings: India moves up two spots, just misses top 100

Traffic on&nbsp;Real Estate Institute of Western Australia surged after Japan named new imperial era as 'Reiwa'.&nbsp;

Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga announced the highly anticipated name by holding up a board with the characters handwritten on it.

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe also addressed the nation to explain its meaning.

Meanwhile, the Real Estate Institute of Western Australia, also REIWA, welcomed Japan’s name choice as traffic surged on its website and interaction with REIWA’s social channels increased dramatically in a matter of minutes, said institute's website in a blog post.

70 per cent of traffic to the website yesterday were from people in Japan, mistaking the real estate portal for their country’s new imperial era, the blog post added.

The arrival of Reiwa on 1 May 2019 will end a 30-year run of the Heisei (“achieving peace”) era, which began in 1989.

The name Reiwa was taken from an old existing compilation of Japanese poetry and represents fortune, peace and harmony.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Traffic on Real Estate Institute of Western Australia surged after Japan named new imperial era as 'Reiwa'. Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga announced the highly anticipated name by holding up a board with the characters handwritten on it.

Traffic on Real Estate Institute of Western Australia surged after Japan named new imperial era as 'Reiwa'. Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga announced the highly anticipated name by holding up a board with the characters handwritten on it. Prime Minister Shinzo Abe also addressed the nation to explain its meaning. Meanwhile, the Real Estate Institute of Western Australia, also REIWA, welcomed Japan’s name choice as traffic surged on its website and interaction with REIWA’s social channels increased dramatically in a matter of minutes, said institute's website in a blog post. 70 per cent of traffic to the website yesterday were from people in Japan, mistaking the real estate portal for their country’s new imperial era, the blog post added. The arrival of Reiwa on 1 May 2019 will end a 30-year run of the Heisei (“achieving peace”) era, which began in 1989. The name Reiwa was taken from an old existing compilation of Japanese poetry and represents fortune, peace and harmony.

Traffic on Australia real estate institute surges after Japan names new imperial era 'Reiwa'   

Australia pulled off a sensational last-over, six-run win despite a debut hundred by Pakistan's Abid Ali and second career century by Mohammad Rizwan in the fourth one-day international in Dubai on Friday.

Needing 278 to win, Pakistan were brought close to their target by Ali's 112 and Rizwan's 104 but in the end the twin hundreds were in vain as they failed to score a required 17 off Marcus Stoinis's last over.

The win gives Australia a 4-0 lead with the last match also in Dubai on Sunday. Glenn Maxwell missed a second career hundred by just two runs, Usman Khawaja scored 62 and Alex Carey 55 as Australia posted 277-7 in their 50 overs.

Ali and Rizwan had put Pakistan on course for victory with a 144-run third-wicket stand but once Ali departed off leg-spinner Adam Zampa in the 42nd over, the innings wilted under the pressure of 60 runs in the last 8.5 overs.

Umar Akmal and debutant Saad Ali fell for seven each to paceman Nathan Coulter-Nile who finished with 3-53 while Stoinis had Rizwan and Usman Shinwari (six) in the final over to seal the win.

Ali, only drafted into the side two hours before the start after Imam-ul-Haq went down with fever, grabbed his opportunity, completing his hundred off 111 balls.

He was lucky to survive a leg-before appeal on 98 off Zampa as the review went on umpire's call. He took two singles to reach the three-figures mark.

Ali is the 15th batsman to score a hundred on one-day international debut. Salim Elahi (102 not out v Sri Lanka at Gujranwala in 1995) and Imam (100 v Sri Lanka in Abu

Dhabi 2017) were the other two Pakistani batsmen to score debut ODI tons.

Ali hit nine boundaries in his 111-ball knock while Rizwan had a six and nine boundaries off 102 balls.

"Credit to our boys, though Abid and Rizwan getting hundreds were great knocks," said Australian skipper Aaron Finch whose team has now won seven games in a row after their 3-2 win in India earlier this month.

"When (Usman) Shinwari hit a six (in the last over), the heart started going again. But we kept hanging in. And that's something we've prided ourselves on. Our quicks at the end were very disciplined." Imad Wasim praised Ali and Rizwan, but blamed the middle-order batting for defeat.

"The two hundreds were positives for us, but we should have won this game," said Wasim. "We lacked power hitters and a finisher." Earlier, it was Maxwell who lifted

Australia -- sent into bat -- from 140-5 to an imposing total. Maxwell hit three sixes and nine boundaries in his 98 off 82 balls.

A new look Pakistan team, with Wasim as skipper after Shoaib Malik was ruled out with a rib injury, caught Australia napping at 101-4 when Maxwell walked in. Dropped on 10 by keeper Rizwan off Yasir Shah, Maxwell repaired the innings with a 134-run partnership for the sixth wicket with Carey who finished with 67-ball 55 for his maiden fifty with three boundaries.

Maxwell, bowled by fast bowler Shinwari off a no-ball when on 76, was within a sight of his second ODI hundred when he was run out while attempting a double run. Carey supported Maxwell as the pair beat the previous sixth wicket stand in Australia-Pakistan ODIs of 90 between Dirk Wellham and Rod Marsh at Sydney in 1981.

Australia lost in-form opener Finch for 39, one short of completing 4,000 one-day runs while Usman Khawaja made a solid 78-ball 62 with six boundaries before he was trapped leg-before by Yasir who finished with 2-57.

Wasim, who had figures of 2-56, dismissed Shaun Marsh (five) and Peter Handscomb (seven) while Mohammad Hasnain got the prized wicket of Finch before dismissing Carey off the last ball, grabbing 2-52.

Australia pulled off a sensational last-over, six-run win despite a debut hundred by Pakistan's Abid Ali and second career century by Mohammad Rizwan in the fourth one-day international in Dubai on Friday.

Australia pulled off a sensational last-over, six-run win despite a debut hundred by Pakistan's Abid Ali and second career century by Mohammad Rizwan in the fourth one-day international in Dubai on Friday. Needing 278 to win, Pakistan were brought close to their target by Ali's 112 and Rizwan's 104 but in the end the twin hundreds were in vain as they failed to score a required 17 off Marcus Stoinis's last over. The win gives Australia a 4-0 lead with the last match also in Dubai on Sunday. Glenn Maxwell missed a second career hundred by just two runs, Usman Khawaja scored 62 and Alex Carey 55 as Australia posted 277-7 in their 50 overs. Ali and Rizwan had put Pakistan on course for victory with a 144-run third-wicket stand but once Ali departed off leg-spinner Adam Zampa in the 42nd over, the innings wilted under the pressure of 60 runs in the last 8.5 overs. Umar Akmal and debutant Saad Ali fell for seven each to paceman Nathan Coulter-Nile who finished with 3-53 while Stoinis had Rizwan and Usman Shinwari (six) in the final over to seal the win. Ali, only drafted into the side two hours before the start after Imam-ul-Haq went down with fever, grabbed his opportunity, completing his hundred off 111 balls. He was lucky to survive a leg-before appeal on 98 off Zampa as the review went on umpire's call. He took two singles to reach the three-figures mark. Ali is the 15th batsman to score a hundred on one-day international debut. Salim Elahi (102 not out v Sri Lanka at Gujranwala in 1995) and Imam (100 v Sri Lanka in Abu Dhabi 2017) were the other two Pakistani batsmen to score debut ODI tons. Ali hit nine boundaries in his 111-ball knock while Rizwan had a six and nine boundaries off 102 balls. "Credit to our boys, though Abid and Rizwan getting hundreds were great knocks," said Australian skipper Aaron Finch whose team has now won seven games in a row after their 3-2 win in India earlier this month. "When (Usman) Shinwari hit a six (in the last over), the heart started going again. But we kept hanging in. And that's something we've prided ourselves on. Our quicks at the end were very disciplined." Imad Wasim praised Ali and Rizwan, but blamed the middle-order batting for defeat. "The two hundreds were positives for us, but we should have won this game," said Wasim. "We lacked power hitters and a finisher." Earlier, it was Maxwell who lifted Australia -- sent into bat -- from 140-5 to an imposing total. Maxwell hit three sixes and nine boundaries in his 98 off 82 balls. A new look Pakistan team, with Wasim as skipper after Shoaib Malik was ruled out with a rib injury, caught Australia napping at 101-4 when Maxwell walked in. Dropped on 10 by keeper Rizwan off Yasir Shah, Maxwell repaired the innings with a 134-run partnership for the sixth wicket with Carey who finished with 67-ball 55 for his maiden fifty with three boundaries. Maxwell, bowled by fast bowler Shinwari off a no-ball when on 76, was within a sight of his second ODI hundred when he was run out while attempting a double run. Carey supported Maxwell as the pair beat the previous sixth wicket stand in Australia-Pakistan ODIs of 90 between Dirk Wellham and Rod Marsh at Sydney in 1981. Australia lost in-form opener Finch for 39, one short of completing 4,000 one-day runs while Usman Khawaja made a solid 78-ball 62 with six boundaries before he was trapped leg-before by Yasir who finished with 2-57. Wasim, who had figures of 2-56, dismissed Shaun Marsh (five) and Peter Handscomb (seven) while Mohammad Hasnain got the prized wicket of Finch before dismissing Carey off the last ball, grabbing 2-52.

Australia claim narrow win despite Abid Ali's debut hundred

Australia's "Egg Boy" — Will Connolly — has said his egg attack on an Australian senator has "united people".&nbsp;

Connolly had cracked an egg on Australian seantor Fraser Anning after the New Zealand mosque massacre. Anning was at the time making a speech blaming Muslim immigration to New Zealand for the attacks.&nbsp;

"The real cause of the bloodshed on New Zealand streets today is the immigration program which allowed Muslim fanatics to migrate to New Zealand in the first place," Anning had said.&nbsp;

Video of the egg attack had very quickly gone viral around the world, with sympathy largely coming down on the side of Connolly.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/controversial-australian-senator-egged-after-new-zealand-shootings-statement-203716">The video showed Connolly cracking an egg on Anning's head as he speaks</a>. The senator turns around and hits Connolly, and then hits him again.&nbsp;

"After that tragedy in Christchurch, I thought the world should be supporting all those victims, giving them love and passion. And the senator released a statement, which was pretty much a divisive hate speech blaming the victims for the attack," Connolly told Australia's Network 10.&nbsp;

"I was just flat-out disgusted," he added.&nbsp;

"I didn't think this was going to blow up. In fact, it's blown up completely out of proportion, to the point where it's kind of embarrassing because too much of the attention is brought away from the real victims suffering — we should be focusing on them," Connolly said to Network 10.&nbsp;

"I understand what I did was not the right thing to do, however this egg has united people and money had been raised — tens of thousands of dollars has been raised for those victims."

Anning had sued Connolly... and donations poured in for Connolly's legal defence. Connolly later said the money collected — over $50,000 — would be donated to the victims.&nbsp;

"I'm so proud to stand for what is right and I encourage everyone to stand up for what you all believe in," Connolly had written earlier on Twitter.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Thanks to everyone. 
 
Egg boy <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EggBoy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EggBoy</a> <a href="https://t.co/5CwzqGprCi">pic.twitter.com/5CwzqGprCi</a>
— WillConnolly (@WillConnolly_A) <a href="https://twitter.com/WillConnolly_A/status/1110102883977056262?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 25, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Hi from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Eggboy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Eggboy</a> 
 
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Australia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Australia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StrayKidsComeback?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StrayKidsComeback</a> <a href="https://t.co/DGfJnkghk3">pic.twitter.com/DGfJnkghk3</a>
— WillConnolly (@WillConnolly_A) <a href="https://twitter.com/WillConnolly_A/status/1109888344706699265?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"I do not condone violence and I do not condone egging someone, and everyone has a right to an opinion, but as I listened to Senator Anning for over an hour, I realised a point had to be made and if no one was going to do anything, then I was," he added.&nbsp;

Australia's "Egg Boy" — Will Connolly — has said his egg attack on an Australian senator has "united people". Connolly had cracked an egg on Australian seantor Fraser Anning after the New Zealand mosque massacre.

Australia's "Egg Boy" — Will Connolly — has said his egg attack on an Australian senator has "united people". Connolly had cracked an egg on Australian seantor Fraser Anning after the New Zealand mosque massacre. Anning was at the time making a speech blaming Muslim immigration to New Zealand for the attacks. "The real cause of the bloodshed on New Zealand streets today is the immigration program which allowed Muslim fanatics to migrate to New Zealand in the first place," Anning had said. Video of the egg attack had very quickly gone viral around the world, with sympathy largely coming down on the side of Connolly. The video showed Connolly cracking an egg on Anning's head as he speaks. The senator turns around and hits Connolly, and then hits him again. "After that tragedy in Christchurch, I thought the world should be supporting all those victims, giving them love and passion. And the senator released a statement, which was pretty much a divisive hate speech blaming the victims for the attack," Connolly told Australia's Network 10. "I was just flat-out disgusted," he added. "I didn't think this was going to blow up. In fact, it's blown up completely out of proportion, to the point where it's kind of embarrassing because too much of the attention is brought away from the real victims suffering — we should be focusing on them," Connolly said to Network 10. "I understand what I did was not the right thing to do, however this egg has united people and money had been raised — tens of thousands of dollars has been raised for those victims." Anning had sued Connolly... and donations poured in for Connolly's legal defence. Connolly later said the money collected — over $50,000 — would be donated to the victims. "I'm so proud to stand for what is right and I encourage everyone to stand up for what you all believe in," Connolly had written earlier on Twitter. Thanks to everyone. Egg boy #EggBoy pic.twitter.com/5CwzqGprCi — WillConnolly (@WillConnolly_A) March 25, 2019 × Hi from #Eggboy #Australia #StrayKidsComeback pic.twitter.com/DGfJnkghk3 — WillConnolly (@WillConnolly_A) March 24, 2019 × "I do not condone violence and I do not condone egging someone, and everyone has a right to an opinion, but as I listened to Senator Anning for over an hour, I realised a point had to be made and if no one was going to do anything, then I was," he added.

Egg attack 'united people', says Australia's 'Egg Boy' Will Connolly

Australia on Monday appointed ex-England bowling coach Troy Cooley&nbsp;for their upcoming Ashes series as they bid to win the urn on away soil for the first time in 18 years.

Meanwhile, Adam Griffith, a former head coach of Tasmania and assistant to national coach Justin&nbsp;Langer at the Western Warriors, takes charge of the bowlers for the team's World Cup campaign in England.

Their appointments follow the departure of another former England bowling coach, David Saker, who quit in February.

Tasmanian Cooley is credited as being a key figure in helping England break their Ashes drought on home soil in 2005.

He recently coached Australia's one-day bowlers for an away series win against India and is currently with the squad in the United Arab Emirates for their limited-overs clashes against Pakistan.

Cricket Australia's team performance manager Belinda Clark said Cooley and Griffith brought a wealth of knowledge and experience.

"We reached out to the coaches working in Australian cricket and received expressions of interest from a strong field of candidates and through the process Adam and Troy emerged as the clear standouts for these secondments," she said.

"Adam and Troy have extensive coaching experience, which we believe will help support our players to best prepare and perform in the upcoming campaigns."

Former Australian skipper Ricky Ponting was last month appointed as batting coach for the World Cup. Ex-England player Graeme Hick is Australia's Test batting coach.

The World Cup kicks off on May 30 and ends on July 14, while the five-test Ashes series is in August and September.

Australia on Monday appointed ex-England bowling coach Troy Cooley for their upcoming Ashes series as they bid to win the urn on away soil for the first time in 18 years.

Australia on Monday appointed ex-England bowling coach Troy Cooley for their upcoming Ashes series as they bid to win the urn on away soil for the first time in 18 years. Meanwhile, Adam Griffith, a former head coach of Tasmania and assistant to national coach Justin Langer at the Western Warriors, takes charge of the bowlers for the team's World Cup campaign in England. Their appointments follow the departure of another former England bowling coach, David Saker, who quit in February. Tasmanian Cooley is credited as being a key figure in helping England break their Ashes drought on home soil in 2005. He recently coached Australia's one-day bowlers for an away series win against India and is currently with the squad in the United Arab Emirates for their limited-overs clashes against Pakistan. Cricket Australia's team performance manager Belinda Clark said Cooley and Griffith brought a wealth of knowledge and experience. "We reached out to the coaches working in Australian cricket and received expressions of interest from a strong field of candidates and through the process Adam and Troy emerged as the clear standouts for these secondments," she said. "Adam and Troy have extensive coaching experience, which we believe will help support our players to best prepare and perform in the upcoming campaigns." Former Australian skipper Ricky Ponting was last month appointed as batting coach for the World Cup. Ex-England player Graeme Hick is Australia's Test batting coach. The World Cup kicks off on May 30 and ends on July 14, while the five-test Ashes series is in August and September.

Australia name ex-England bowling coach Troy Cooley for Ashes tour

A severe category 3 cyclone blew into the key mining region of Pilbara in Western Australia Sunday, forcing evacuations and a halt to port operations, as the north of the country dealt with the effects of an even more powerful storm that hit the previous day.

Cyclone Veronica weakened from a category 4 storm before its core winds hit the coast near the mining centre of Port Hedland, but officials warned the system was slow moving and would continue pounding the region with gale force winds and heavy rain for 24 to 48 hours.&nbsp;

The Bureau of Meteorology said Veronica's forward movement had stalled around midday Sunday before its eye made landfall, and was forecast to weaken to a category 1 storm overnight and then veer west along the coastline.

It said the "severe" storm was producing wind gusts of up to 200 kilometres per hour (120 mph), pushing a storm surge of up to two metres (seven feet) onto the coast.

Rainfall was expected to hit 20-40 centimetres, it said.

"Tides are likely to rise significantly above the normal high tide mark with damaging waves and very dangerous coastal inundation," the bureau said.&nbsp;

Major mining and energy companies took precautionary steps across the region, a hub of liquefied natural gas and iron-ore exports, with ports cleared of ships and non-essential staff evacuated, according to australianminining.com.au website.&nbsp;

Australia's western coast usually sees three or four cyclones per year and emergency services said residents were well prepared for this storm.

Meanwhile, Cyclone Trevor, which hit northern Australia on Saturday as a powerful category 4, weakened to a tropical storm overnight as it moved inland in the sparsely populated region.

Officials said no deaths, injuries or significant damage had been reported from the storm, but that heavy rains were continuing and flooding was still a danger.

The army and police had evacuated more than 2,000 residents from outposts in Trevor's path, many of them indigenous communities, and people began returning to their homes on Sunday, police said.

A severe category 3 cyclone blew into the key mining region of Pilbara in Western Australia Sunday, forcing evacuations and a halt to port operations, as the north of the country dealt with the effects of an even more powerful storm that hit the previous day.

A severe category 3 cyclone blew into the key mining region of Pilbara in Western Australia Sunday, forcing evacuations and a halt to port operations, as the north of the country dealt with the effects of an even more powerful storm that hit the previous day. Cyclone Veronica weakened from a category 4 storm before its core winds hit the coast near the mining centre of Port Hedland, but officials warned the system was slow moving and would continue pounding the region with gale force winds and heavy rain for 24 to 48 hours. The Bureau of Meteorology said Veronica's forward movement had stalled around midday Sunday before its eye made landfall, and was forecast to weaken to a category 1 storm overnight and then veer west along the coastline. It said the "severe" storm was producing wind gusts of up to 200 kilometres per hour (120 mph), pushing a storm surge of up to two metres (seven feet) onto the coast. Rainfall was expected to hit 20-40 centimetres, it said. "Tides are likely to rise significantly above the normal high tide mark with damaging waves and very dangerous coastal inundation," the bureau said. Major mining and energy companies took precautionary steps across the region, a hub of liquefied natural gas and iron-ore exports, with ports cleared of ships and non-essential staff evacuated, according to australianminining.com.au website. Australia's western coast usually sees three or four cyclones per year and emergency services said residents were well prepared for this storm. Meanwhile, Cyclone Trevor, which hit northern Australia on Saturday as a powerful category 4, weakened to a tropical storm overnight as it moved inland in the sparsely populated region. Officials said no deaths, injuries or significant damage had been reported from the storm, but that heavy rains were continuing and flooding was still a danger. The army and police had evacuated more than 2,000 residents from outposts in Trevor's path, many of them indigenous communities, and people began returning to their homes on Sunday, police said.

Australia hit with second 'severe' cylcone in two days

A "very destructive" category 4 cyclone slammed into Australia's remote northern coast on Saturday, while a second, equally powerful storm bore down on the country's west.

Cyclone Trevor, pushing a huge storm tide and packing winds of up to 250 kilometres per hou, made landfall on the sparsely populated Northern Territory coast near the Gulf of Carpentaria town of Port McArthur, national broadcaster ABC reported.

The army and police had already evacuated most residents from communities in Trevor's path, though a handful of locals remained behind, police told the ABC.

The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) said Trevor was driving a "very dangerous storm tide" along coastal regions and that heavy rainfall was expected to cause flooding across wide areas of the Northern Territory and neighbouring Queensland.

Meanwhile, another category 4 cyclone, Veronica, was bearing down on the more heavily populated mining region of Pilbara in Western Australia state, where it was expected to make landfall late Saturday or Sunday. &nbsp;

Jonathan Howe of the BOM said Veronica was expected to slow down as it approached the coast near the mining centre of Port Hedland, carrying up to a metre of rain for some areas and pushing a storm surge than could reach four metres (nine feet).

"We could see widespread inundation," of the region, he said.

A "very destructive" category 4 cyclone slammed into Australia's remote northern coast on Saturday, while a second, equally powerful storm bore down on the country's west.

A "very destructive" category 4 cyclone slammed into Australia's remote northern coast on Saturday, while a second, equally powerful storm bore down on the country's west. Cyclone Trevor, pushing a huge storm tide and packing winds of up to 250 kilometres per hou, made landfall on the sparsely populated Northern Territory coast near the Gulf of Carpentaria town of Port McArthur, national broadcaster ABC reported. The army and police had already evacuated most residents from communities in Trevor's path, though a handful of locals remained behind, police told the ABC. The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) said Trevor was driving a "very dangerous storm tide" along coastal regions and that heavy rainfall was expected to cause flooding across wide areas of the Northern Territory and neighbouring Queensland. Meanwhile, another category 4 cyclone, Veronica, was bearing down on the more heavily populated mining region of Pilbara in Western Australia state, where it was expected to make landfall late Saturday or Sunday. Jonathan Howe of the BOM said Veronica was expected to slow down as it approached the coast near the mining centre of Port Hedland, carrying up to a metre of rain for some areas and pushing a storm surge than could reach four metres (nine feet). "We could see widespread inundation," of the region, he said.

Twin cyclones batter Australia

Australia captain Aaron Finch scored a century as they beat Pakistan by eight wickets in the opening one-day international at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium on Friday.

Chasing 281 to win, the tourists reached their target with an over to spare and took a 1-0 lead in the five-match series with Finch making 116 and Shaun Marsh unbeaten on 91.

Unbeaten Haris Sohail's maiden ODI ton had helped Pakistan reach 280 for five in 50 overs after skipper Shoaib Malik, standing in for the rested Sarfraz Ahmed, won the toss and elected to bat.

Sohail, who scored his first test century against Australia in October, anchored the innings with an unbeaten 101 off 115 balls including six fours and a six before late fireworks by Imad Wasim ensured they would defend a challenging total.

The victory was Australia's fourth in a row in the format and follows their 3-2 series triumph in India.

Finch and Marsh put on a 172-run stand after Usman Khawaja was dismissed for 24. The pair paced their innings perfectly on a wicket that improved under lights before Finch was dismissed by debutant pace bowler Mohammad Abbas in the 43rd over.

The captain hit eight fours and four sixes en route to his 12th century. Peter Handscomb ensured Australia crossed the finish line without any problems, scoring an unbeaten 30.

Earlier, Pakistan's openers started sluggishly, with Imam-ul-Haq scoring 17 before being dismissed by spinner Nathan Lyon while debutant Shan Masood was castled by paceman Nathan Coulter-Nile for a 62-ball 40.

Sohail and Umar Akmal combined for a 98-run partnership before the latter, dropped by Peter Handscomb in the 27th over, was caught at mid-off just short of his half-century as he looked to increase the scoring rate.

Malik was bowled by Glenn Maxwell for 11 shortly afterwards and was replaced in the middle by Faheem Ashraf, who helped steady the innings with a handy 28.

Sohail, playing in his first ODI in over four months, edged closer to his century before completing it with a single off Coulter-Nile in the final over of the innings.

Pakistan scored 55 runs in the last five overs thanks to all-rounder Wasim, who made an unbeaten 28 from 13 balls to boost the total.

The second game takes place at the same venue on Sunday.

Australia captain Aaron Finch scored a century as they beat Pakistan by eight wickets in the opening one-day international at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium on Friday.

Australia captain Aaron Finch scored a century as they beat Pakistan by eight wickets in the opening one-day international at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium on Friday. Chasing 281 to win, the tourists reached their target with an over to spare and took a 1-0 lead in the five-match series with Finch making 116 and Shaun Marsh unbeaten on 91. Unbeaten Haris Sohail's maiden ODI ton had helped Pakistan reach 280 for five in 50 overs after skipper Shoaib Malik, standing in for the rested Sarfraz Ahmed, won the toss and elected to bat. Sohail, who scored his first test century against Australia in October, anchored the innings with an unbeaten 101 off 115 balls including six fours and a six before late fireworks by Imad Wasim ensured they would defend a challenging total. The victory was Australia's fourth in a row in the format and follows their 3-2 series triumph in India. Finch and Marsh put on a 172-run stand after Usman Khawaja was dismissed for 24. The pair paced their innings perfectly on a wicket that improved under lights before Finch was dismissed by debutant pace bowler Mohammad Abbas in the 43rd over. The captain hit eight fours and four sixes en route to his 12th century. Peter Handscomb ensured Australia crossed the finish line without any problems, scoring an unbeaten 30. Earlier, Pakistan's openers started sluggishly, with Imam-ul-Haq scoring 17 before being dismissed by spinner Nathan Lyon while debutant Shan Masood was castled by paceman Nathan Coulter-Nile for a 62-ball 40. Sohail and Umar Akmal combined for a 98-run partnership before the latter, dropped by Peter Handscomb in the 27th over, was caught at mid-off just short of his half-century as he looked to increase the scoring rate. Malik was bowled by Glenn Maxwell for 11 shortly afterwards and was replaced in the middle by Faheem Ashraf, who helped steady the innings with a handy 28. Sohail, playing in his first ODI in over four months, edged closer to his century before completing it with a single off Coulter-Nile in the final over of the innings. Pakistan scored 55 runs in the last five overs thanks to all-rounder Wasim, who made an unbeaten 28 from 13 balls to boost the total. The second game takes place at the same venue on Sunday.

AUSvsPAK, 1st ODI: Aaron Finch century helps Australia beat Pakistan by 8 wickets

In-form batsman Usman Khawaja should be part of Australia's World Cup plans despite the imminent returns of Steve Smith and David Warner, former captain Ricky Ponting has said.

Khawaja struck 383 runs, including two centuries, in Australia's 3-2 series win over India earlier this month and Ponting is of the view that the left-hander opener had earned his place at the World Cup.

"I think we all saw over the last few weeks just how skilful a player Usman Khawaja is... and I think when you see him play like that it just makes you wonder why he doesn't do it a bit more regularly," Ponting told reporters on Tuesday.

"I would be surprised if Khawaja wasn't in the (World Cup) squad. Khawaja could probably slot down at three when Warner comes in and Steve Smith might bat at four or five or something just to shore up those middle overs."

Smith and Warner were suspended for their roles in a ball-tampering scandal in South Africa last year and are set to be reintegrated into the team ahead of the May 30-July 14 World Cup in England and Wales.

Ponting, who led Australia to World Cup glory in 2003 and 2007, said current skipper Aaron Finch would continue to lead the side at this year's tournament but former captain Smith could still be counted for advice.

"(Smith) is still out on the field, so he can help Aaron Finch out," Ponting added. "I'd imagine that Aaron Finch would be leaning on Steve Smith a lot for a bit of advice, maybe leading into the games, as far as preparation is concerned."

In-form batsman Usman Khawaja should be part of Australia's World Cup plans despite the imminent returns of Steve Smith and David Warner, former captain Ricky Ponting has said.

In-form batsman Usman Khawaja should be part of Australia's World Cup plans despite the imminent returns of Steve Smith and David Warner, former captain Ricky Ponting has said. Khawaja struck 383 runs, including two centuries, in Australia's 3-2 series win over India earlier this month and Ponting is of the view that the left-hander opener had earned his place at the World Cup. "I think we all saw over the last few weeks just how skilful a player Usman Khawaja is... and I think when you see him play like that it just makes you wonder why he doesn't do it a bit more regularly," Ponting told reporters on Tuesday. "I would be surprised if Khawaja wasn't in the (World Cup) squad. Khawaja could probably slot down at three when Warner comes in and Steve Smith might bat at four or five or something just to shore up those middle overs." Smith and Warner were suspended for their roles in a ball-tampering scandal in South Africa last year and are set to be reintegrated into the team ahead of the May 30-July 14 World Cup in England and Wales. Ponting, who led Australia to World Cup glory in 2003 and 2007, said current skipper Aaron Finch would continue to lead the side at this year's tournament but former captain Smith could still be counted for advice. "(Smith) is still out on the field, so he can help Aaron Finch out," Ponting added. "I'd imagine that Aaron Finch would be leaning on Steve Smith a lot for a bit of advice, maybe leading into the games, as far as preparation is concerned."

Despite Smith-Warner return, Ricky Ponting backs Usman Khawaja to make Australia's World Cup squad

High-flying India crashed to a stunning 2-3 defeat against Australia at home in the bilateral ODI series and the setback should act as a warning sign for Virat Kohli and his men going into the upcoming World Cup as one of the favourites, feels former captain Rahul Dravid.

India led 2-0 in the five-match series but lost the last three to the reigning World Cup champions to lose an ODI series after a lengthy gap.

These games are the last of the 50-over competition for India going into the World Cup commencing on May 30 in England.

"I think there was a bit of notion that we are going walk there and win the World Cup easily. So it's a good thing that has happened. What it has (the outcome against Australia) reminded us is that we have to play the World Cup very, very well," said Dravid.

He was speaking at the launch of ESPNCricinfos new metrics, SuperStats, along with his former India teammate Sanjay Manjrekar here on Wednesday.

"In a way, I think its a good balancing factor. India has performed well in the last couple of years. There was a little bit of talk that we are almost going to walk in there and win the World Cup very easily because we are the No. 1 team and we have been dominating one-day cricket for the last couple of years," said India's current under 19 and A team coach.

"But I don't find anything strange from my perspective watching the series. I still feel that we are going to be one of the favourites. But it's going to be tough. It's going to be competitive," the cricket stalwart insisted.

Both Dravid and Manjrekar also answered queries on the much-talked-about workload factor in the IPL starting on March 23 for some key Indian players, who are expected to make the World Cup squad, such as Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya.

All-rounder Pandya is coming off a lower back injury layoff that forced him to miss matches in Australia as well as the home series against the same opponents at home.

"Most players are smart about these things. They know how to handle their body. I don't think the players would put their body on the line. I was reading Patrick Cummins (Australia pacer) saying that he feels better bowling when he is constantly playing rather than having rested and coming back," Dravid said.

"So to each player, it's different. There cannot be a blanket case that all should be rested. We have to just trust the players. They know what needs to be done," he opined.

Manjrekar was even more forthright and said the Cricket Board should not put pressure on IPL franchises to rest some players in view of the following World Cup.

"My views won't be appreciated. This is free enterprise. IPL is capitalism at its best. I don't think there should be any outside interference. It should be up to the franchises. Don't think there should be pressure (on IPL franchises) from the Cricket Board (BCCI) (to rest some players)," the former Test batsman turned TV commentator remarked.

Both also talked about the numbers game in cricket.

While welcoming the new parameters launched by the cricket website which he felt would be of some help to coaches, Dravid said, "numbers are not everything but at the same time you cannot ignore numbers".

"Numbers can't quantify whether someone is not feeling up for it on that particular day. There's a mix of both," is how he put it.&nbsp;

High-flying India crashed to a stunning 2-3 defeat against Australia at home in the bilateral ODI series and the setback should act as a warning sign for Virat Kohli and his men going into the upcoming World Cup as one of the favourites, feels former captain Rahul Dravid.

High-flying India crashed to a stunning 2-3 defeat against Australia at home in the bilateral ODI series and the setback should act as a warning sign for Virat Kohli and his men going into the upcoming World Cup as one of the favourites, feels former captain Rahul Dravid. India led 2-0 in the five-match series but lost the last three to the reigning World Cup champions to lose an ODI series after a lengthy gap. These games are the last of the 50-over competition for India going into the World Cup commencing on May 30 in England. "I think there was a bit of notion that we are going walk there and win the World Cup easily. So it's a good thing that has happened. What it has (the outcome against Australia) reminded us is that we have to play the World Cup very, very well," said Dravid. He was speaking at the launch of ESPNCricinfos new metrics, SuperStats, along with his former India teammate Sanjay Manjrekar here on Wednesday. "In a way, I think its a good balancing factor. India has performed well in the last couple of years. There was a little bit of talk that we are almost going to walk in there and win the World Cup very easily because we are the No. 1 team and we have been dominating one-day cricket for the last couple of years," said India's current under 19 and A team coach. "But I don't find anything strange from my perspective watching the series. I still feel that we are going to be one of the favourites. But it's going to be tough. It's going to be competitive," the cricket stalwart insisted. Both Dravid and Manjrekar also answered queries on the much-talked-about workload factor in the IPL starting on March 23 for some key Indian players, who are expected to make the World Cup squad, such as Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya. All-rounder Pandya is coming off a lower back injury layoff that forced him to miss matches in Australia as well as the home series against the same opponents at home. "Most players are smart about these things. They know how to handle their body. I don't think the players would put their body on the line. I was reading Patrick Cummins (Australia pacer) saying that he feels better bowling when he is constantly playing rather than having rested and coming back," Dravid said. "So to each player, it's different. There cannot be a blanket case that all should be rested. We have to just trust the players. They know what needs to be done," he opined. Manjrekar was even more forthright and said the Cricket Board should not put pressure on IPL franchises to rest some players in view of the following World Cup. "My views won't be appreciated. This is free enterprise. IPL is capitalism at its best. I don't think there should be any outside interference. It should be up to the franchises. Don't think there should be pressure (on IPL franchises) from the Cricket Board (BCCI) (to rest some players)," the former Test batsman turned TV commentator remarked. Both also talked about the numbers game in cricket. While welcoming the new parameters launched by the cricket website which he felt would be of some help to coaches, Dravid said, "numbers are not everything but at the same time you cannot ignore numbers". "Numbers can't quantify whether someone is not feeling up for it on that particular day. There's a mix of both," is how he put it.

Defeat to Australia warning sign for India ahead of ICC World Cup: Rahul Dravid

Australia on Wednesday cut its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/abuse-rife-in-australian-immigration-centre-leaked-reports-4618">annual intake of immigrants</a> by nearly 15 per cent, and barred some new arrivals from living in its largest cities for three years, in a bid to ease urban congestion.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison —&nbsp;who is trailing badly in the polls ahead of a federal election in May —&nbsp;hopes to tap into rising voter frustration over house prices and congestion, which some see as a consequence of population growth.

"This is a practical problem that Australians wanted addressed," Morrison told reporters in Canberra, the capital, after announcing the annual immigration intake would be cut to 160,000 people, with effect from July 1, versus 190,000 before.

The policy change comes at a time of national reflection over Australia's attitude towards migrants after the shooting of at least 50 people at two mosques in New Zealand's city of Christchurch.

Australian Brenton Tarrant, 28, a suspected white supremacist, was charged with murder on Saturday after a lone gunman opened fire at the two mosques during Friday prayers.

"My great frustration is that, in addressing these issues of population and immigration programs, these debates often get hijacked by those of competing views who seek to exploit them for other causes," Morrison added.

"I reject all of that absolutely."

A ReachTel poll published in September showed that 63 per cent of Sydney residents supported curbs on the number of migrants moving to Australia's biggest city.

Morrison said the cap would include places for up to 23,000 people who could migrate to Australia under a new skilled visa.

Such arrivals could gain permanent residency after living outside of Australia's largest cities for three years, he added.

They will be barred from living in Melbourne, Perth, Sydney or the Gold Coast, where infrastructure is overutilised, said immigration minister David Coleman.

Authorities will require proof of residential and work addresses in future applications for permanent residency, he added, as a way of enforcing the requirement.

Business welcomed the bid to alleviate regional skill shortages.

"While Australians in our major cities are frustrated by congestion, those in our regions have told us they need more people, skills, jobs and investment," said Jennifer Westacott, chief executive of the Australian Business Council.

There is no cap on temporary migration, such as students on temporary visas, who form the bulk of migrants to Australia, which issued 378,292 student visas in the year to June 30, 2018.

Australia on Wednesday cut its annual intake of immigrants by nearly 15 per cent, and barred some new arrivals from living in its largest cities for three years, in a bid to ease urban congestion.

Australia on Wednesday cut its annual intake of immigrants by nearly 15 per cent, and barred some new arrivals from living in its largest cities for three years, in a bid to ease urban congestion. Prime Minister Scott Morrison — who is trailing badly in the polls ahead of a federal election in May — hopes to tap into rising voter frustration over house prices and congestion, which some see as a consequence of population growth. "This is a practical problem that Australians wanted addressed," Morrison told reporters in Canberra, the capital, after announcing the annual immigration intake would be cut to 160,000 people, with effect from July 1, versus 190,000 before. The policy change comes at a time of national reflection over Australia's attitude towards migrants after the shooting of at least 50 people at two mosques in New Zealand's city of Christchurch. Australian Brenton Tarrant, 28, a suspected white supremacist, was charged with murder on Saturday after a lone gunman opened fire at the two mosques during Friday prayers. "My great frustration is that, in addressing these issues of population and immigration programs, these debates often get hijacked by those of competing views who seek to exploit them for other causes," Morrison added. "I reject all of that absolutely." A ReachTel poll published in September showed that 63 per cent of Sydney residents supported curbs on the number of migrants moving to Australia's biggest city. Morrison said the cap would include places for up to 23,000 people who could migrate to Australia under a new skilled visa. Such arrivals could gain permanent residency after living outside of Australia's largest cities for three years, he added. They will be barred from living in Melbourne, Perth, Sydney or the Gold Coast, where infrastructure is overutilised, said immigration minister David Coleman. Authorities will require proof of residential and work addresses in future applications for permanent residency, he added, as a way of enforcing the requirement. Business welcomed the bid to alleviate regional skill shortages. "While Australians in our major cities are frustrated by congestion, those in our regions have told us they need more people, skills, jobs and investment," said Jennifer Westacott, chief executive of the Australian Business Council. There is no cap on temporary migration, such as students on temporary visas, who form the bulk of migrants to Australia, which issued 378,292 student visas in the year to June 30, 2018.

Australia says some new immigrants will not be allowed to live in its biggest cities

Indonesia summoned Canberra's ambassador Monday after an<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-have-made-a-decision-we-are-unified-pm-ardern-says-new-zealand-will-tighten-gun-laws-204011"> Australian senator blamed </a>last week's mosque attacks by a white supremacist in New Zealand on immigration.

Indonesian foreign minister Retno Marsudi said she had called ambassador Gary Quinlan to her office to convey the Muslim majority country's "strong condemnation" of Queensland Senator Fraser Anning's controversial comments.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/UdM1DVfcraE" width="560"></iframe>

The people killed in Friday's massacre in Christchurch included one Indonesian, while another was seriously injured.

"Ambassador Quinlan conveyed his reassurance that the statement made by Senator Anning does not reflect the position and sentiments of the government and the people of Australia," Marsudi said.

She added: "Indonesia strongly condemns this act of terrorism which has no place in New Zealand or anywhere else in this world."

On Friday, Anning said in a statement the attack in the southern New Zealand city was the result of Muslim immigration into the country.&nbsp;

Anning's remarks drew condemnation from across the political spectrum in Australia.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison described the comments as "appalling" and "ugly" with "no place in Australia", as he announced a bipartisan motion of censure would be launched.

Former PM Kevin Rudd dubbed Anning a "racist and a fascist", and encouraged Australians to sign a petition calling for him to be booted out of parliament.

On Saturday, Anning - elected in 2017 by a fluke of Australia's proportional voting system, having received only 19 first preference votes - had to be restrained after punching a teenager who threw an egg at him in protest over his comments.

Indonesia summoned Canberra's ambassador Monday after an Australian senator blamed last week's mosque attacks by a white supremacist in New Zealand on immigration.

Indonesia summoned Canberra's ambassador Monday after an Australian senator blamed last week's mosque attacks by a white supremacist in New Zealand on immigration. Indonesian foreign minister Retno Marsudi said she had called ambassador Gary Quinlan to her office to convey the Muslim majority country's "strong condemnation" of Queensland Senator Fraser Anning's controversial comments. The people killed in Friday's massacre in Christchurch included one Indonesian, while another was seriously injured. "Ambassador Quinlan conveyed his reassurance that the statement made by Senator Anning does not reflect the position and sentiments of the government and the people of Australia," Marsudi said. She added: "Indonesia strongly condemns this act of terrorism which has no place in New Zealand or anywhere else in this world." On Friday, Anning said in a statement the attack in the southern New Zealand city was the result of Muslim immigration into the country. Anning's remarks drew condemnation from across the political spectrum in Australia. Prime Minister Scott Morrison described the comments as "appalling" and "ugly" with "no place in Australia", as he announced a bipartisan motion of censure would be launched. Former PM Kevin Rudd dubbed Anning a "racist and a fascist", and encouraged Australians to sign a petition calling for him to be booted out of parliament. On Saturday, Anning - elected in 2017 by a fluke of Australia's proportional voting system, having received only 19 first preference votes - had to be restrained after punching a teenager who threw an egg at him in protest over his comments.

Indonesia summons Australian foreign minister over Senator's remark

Rohit Sharma added another major milestone to his name as he became the third fastest to reach 8000 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-beat-india-by-35-runs-in-fifth-odi-win-series-3-2-203158">ODI runs during the series decider against Australia</a> in New Delhi on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Rohit Sharma played a brilliant inning and scored his 41st ODI half-century before giving away his wicket for 56 runs. &nbsp;

The Indian cricket team opener achieved the feat on his 200th ODI innings and is tied with former India skipper Sourav Ganguly. Virat Kohli was the fastest with 175 innings while AB De Villers is second with 182.

Overall, he become the ninth Indian cricket team player to reach 8000 runs after Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni, Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, Virender Sehwag, Yuvraj Singh, Sourav Ganguly and Mohammad Azharuddin.

In the fourth ODI in Mohali, Rohit completed 3000 ODI runs on home soil and also became the joint fastest to reach achieve the feat along with South Africa’s Hashim Amla (57 innings).&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Australia defeated India Wednesday by 35 runs to win the fifth One-Day International at the Feroz Shah Kotla stadium. By virtue of this win, the visitors have won the five-game series 3-2.

Opting to bat, Australia were restricted to a score of 272 runs despite Usman Khawaja hitting a century and Peter Handscomb slamming a half-century.

In reply, India were bowled out for 237 runs as wickets kept tumbling and vice-captain Rohit Sharma didn't find any support at the other end.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Rohit Sharma added another major milestone to his name as he became the third fastest to reach 8000 ODI runs during the series decider against Australia in New Delhi on Wednesday.

Rohit Sharma added another major milestone to his name as he became the third fastest to reach 8000 ODI runs during the series decider against Australia in New Delhi on Wednesday. Rohit Sharma played a brilliant inning and scored his 41st ODI half-century before giving away his wicket for 56 runs. The Indian cricket team opener achieved the feat on his 200th ODI innings and is tied with former India skipper Sourav Ganguly. Virat Kohli was the fastest with 175 innings while AB De Villers is second with 182. Overall, he become the ninth Indian cricket team player to reach 8000 runs after Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni, Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, Virender Sehwag, Yuvraj Singh, Sourav Ganguly and Mohammad Azharuddin. In the fourth ODI in Mohali, Rohit completed 3000 ODI runs on home soil and also became the joint fastest to reach achieve the feat along with South Africa’s Hashim Amla (57 innings). Meanwhile, Australia defeated India Wednesday by 35 runs to win the fifth One-Day International at the Feroz Shah Kotla stadium. By virtue of this win, the visitors have won the five-game series 3-2. Opting to bat, Australia were restricted to a score of 272 runs despite Usman Khawaja hitting a century and Peter Handscomb slamming a half-century. In reply, India were bowled out for 237 runs as wickets kept tumbling and vice-captain Rohit Sharma didn't find any support at the other end.

IND vs AUS: Rohit Sharma becomes third fastest batsman to reach 8000 runs in ODIs

Australia's former foreign minister says she was mistaken for the spouse of a politician by <a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/melania-trumps-wardrobe-choices-during-africa-trip-stirs-controversy-170144#melania-trump-concluded-her-africa-trip-170130">US First Lady Melania Trump</a>, in her latest comments on the subordinate role of women in conservative politics.

Julie Bishop has been vocal about the treatment of senior female politicians since she stepped down after the ouster of former prime minister Malcolm Turnbull last year.

Bishop, who was Australia's first female foreign minister and deputy leader of the Liberal Party, is among several senior politicians from the centre-right government set to quit parliament at upcoming national elections amid expectations of an opposition win.

She told a talk in Adelaide Saturday that Melania thought her partner David Patton was Australia's foreign minister, instead of her, after President Donald Trump stuck up a conversation with him, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation reported.

"Melania, standing by, assumed David was the foreign minister and she said to me: 'Julie, will you be coming to my ladies' lunch tomorrow?," Bishop said of the encounter at the UN General Assembly Leaders' week in 2017.

"And I said 'No, David's going to the partners' lunch'. She thought about that for a while, thinking: 'Why would Australia's foreign minister come to the partners' lunch?'

"So this went on for a while until the president explained that I was the foreign minister."

Australia's embattled minority government has been accused of having a "women problem", with Prime Minister Scott Morrison recently boosting the number of female politicians in his cabinet to counter the criticism.

One cabinet minister who is also leaving parliament, Kelly O'Dwyer, reportedly said as a warning in a party meeting several months ago that the Liberals were widely viewed by voters as "homophobic, anti-women, climate-change deniers".&nbsp;

Bishop said she was not comfortable being the only woman among 18 men in cabinet after Turnbull's predecessor Tony Abbott won national elections in 2013.&nbsp;

"This isn't fine. This is not completely normal," she said of the situation.

There have been growing calls for the Liberals to introduce quotas to improve the low levels of female representation in the party.

This is not the first time the issue of sexism has been raised in Australian politics.

Former prime minister Julia Gillard became a torchbearer for women around the world in 2012 with her fiery speech about misogyny in parliament, where she accused Abbott of sexism.

Australia's former foreign minister says she was mistaken for the spouse of a politician by US First Lady Melania Trump, in her latest comments on the subordinate role of women in conservative politics.

Australia's former foreign minister says she was mistaken for the spouse of a politician by US First Lady Melania Trump, in her latest comments on the subordinate role of women in conservative politics. Julie Bishop has been vocal about the treatment of senior female politicians since she stepped down after the ouster of former prime minister Malcolm Turnbull last year. Bishop, who was Australia's first female foreign minister and deputy leader of the Liberal Party, is among several senior politicians from the centre-right government set to quit parliament at upcoming national elections amid expectations of an opposition win. She told a talk in Adelaide Saturday that Melania thought her partner David Patton was Australia's foreign minister, instead of her, after President Donald Trump stuck up a conversation with him, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation reported. "Melania, standing by, assumed David was the foreign minister and she said to me: 'Julie, will you be coming to my ladies' lunch tomorrow?," Bishop said of the encounter at the UN General Assembly Leaders' week in 2017. "And I said 'No, David's going to the partners' lunch'. She thought about that for a while, thinking: 'Why would Australia's foreign minister come to the partners' lunch?' "So this went on for a while until the president explained that I was the foreign minister." Australia's embattled minority government has been accused of having a "women problem", with Prime Minister Scott Morrison recently boosting the number of female politicians in his cabinet to counter the criticism. One cabinet minister who is also leaving parliament, Kelly O'Dwyer, reportedly said as a warning in a party meeting several months ago that the Liberals were widely viewed by voters as "homophobic, anti-women, climate-change deniers". Bishop said she was not comfortable being the only woman among 18 men in cabinet after Turnbull's predecessor Tony Abbott won national elections in 2013. "This isn't fine. This is not completely normal," she said of the situation. There have been growing calls for the Liberals to introduce quotas to improve the low levels of female representation in the party. This is not the first time the issue of sexism has been raised in Australian politics. Former prime minister Julia Gillard became a torchbearer for women around the world in 2012 with her fiery speech about misogyny in parliament, where she accused Abbott of sexism.

Melania Trump 'mistook former female Australia foreign minister for partner'

Chinese telecoms giant&nbsp;Huawei&nbsp;said Friday it had&nbsp;no&nbsp;immediate plans to mount a&nbsp;legal&nbsp;challenge over&nbsp;Australia's decision to bar the company's equipment from the 5G network Down Under.&nbsp;

A day after taking Donald Trump's administration to court for banning US federal agencies from buying&nbsp;Huawei&nbsp;products, the firm said&nbsp;no&nbsp;such move was envisaged in&nbsp;Australia.

"Whilst we have our differences with the federal government, we would still rather work cooperatively," a company spokesman told AFP.&nbsp;

"A&nbsp;legal&nbsp;challenge is not a priority at this moment."&nbsp;

Australia&nbsp;in August announced guidelines on contracts to build fifth generation mobile networks in the country which effectively barred&nbsp;Huawei and another Chinese giant, ZTE, from the project.

Canberra cited intelligence agency warnings&nbsp;against&nbsp;the "involvement of vendors who are likely to be subject to extrajudicial directions from a foreign government".

As&nbsp;Huawei&nbsp;has grown, fears have emerged that the company could effectively provide the Chinese state with a switch to cut critical infrastructure during a crisis.&nbsp;

While&nbsp;Huawei&nbsp;insists it is a private company, its founder Ren Zhengfei is a 74-year-old former People's Liberation Army engineer.&nbsp;

And while there are&nbsp;no&nbsp;formal ties with the state, in practice large Chinese firms and the ruling Communist Party are intricately interlinked.&nbsp;

In 2015, Beijing passed a law obliging its corporations to aid the government on matters of national security.&nbsp;

That, coupled with Beijing's more muscular foreign and security policy overseas, has raised concerns among members of the Five Eyes intelligence sharing collective.&nbsp;

All five members -&nbsp;Australia, Britain, Canada, New Zealand, and the United States -&nbsp;have taken at least some steps toward limiting&nbsp;Huawei's role in sensitive infrastructure.

But at the same time,&nbsp;Huawei&nbsp;has become enmeshed in local economies.

The company&nbsp;says&nbsp;its business in&nbsp;Australia&nbsp;alone is worth Aus$650 million and has 700 employees, and its equipment is used directly or indirectly by half the population.

Chinese telecoms giant Huawei said Friday it had no immediate plans to mount a legal challenge over Australia's decision to bar the company's equipment from the 5G network Down Under.

Chinese telecoms giant Huawei said Friday it had no immediate plans to mount a legal challenge over Australia's decision to bar the company's equipment from the 5G network Down Under. A day after taking Donald Trump's administration to court for banning US federal agencies from buying Huawei products, the firm said no such move was envisaged in Australia. "Whilst we have our differences with the federal government, we would still rather work cooperatively," a company spokesman told AFP. "A legal challenge is not a priority at this moment." Australia in August announced guidelines on contracts to build fifth generation mobile networks in the country which effectively barred Huawei and another Chinese giant, ZTE, from the project. Canberra cited intelligence agency warnings against the "involvement of vendors who are likely to be subject to extrajudicial directions from a foreign government". As Huawei has grown, fears have emerged that the company could effectively provide the Chinese state with a switch to cut critical infrastructure during a crisis. While Huawei insists it is a private company, its founder Ren Zhengfei is a 74-year-old former People's Liberation Army engineer. And while there are no formal ties with the state, in practice large Chinese firms and the ruling Communist Party are intricately interlinked. In 2015, Beijing passed a law obliging its corporations to aid the government on matters of national security. That, coupled with Beijing's more muscular foreign and security policy overseas, has raised concerns among members of the Five Eyes intelligence sharing collective. All five members - Australia, Britain, Canada, New Zealand, and the United States - have taken at least some steps toward limiting Huawei's role in sensitive infrastructure. But at the same time, Huawei has become enmeshed in local economies. The company says its business in Australia alone is worth Aus$650 million and has 700 employees, and its equipment is used directly or indirectly by half the population.

Have differences with Australia on 5G but will work cooperate: Huawei

Australia expressed alarm Friday at the slow response from firms linked to a grounded cargo ship that has for weeks been leaking oil into a World Heritage-listed coral atoll in the Solomon Islands.

MV Solomon Trader ran aground during high winds on February 5 while loading bauxite at remote Rennell Island.

More than a month later, the 225-meter (740-foot) ship is still stuck on the reef and has leaked more than 70 tonnes of heavy fuel oil into the sea, with another 600 tonnes still on the stricken vessel.

"We needed much speedier action in response to what is potentially a very significant natural disaster," Australia's minister for international development and the Pacific, Anne Ruston, told AFP Friday.

"We would have liked to have seen that the operator and their necessary insurers were a little bit quicker to respond to what was happening, instead of leaving it up to Australia and the Solomon Islands to respond."

The ship's insurer, Korean Protection and Indemnity Club (KP&amp;I), issued an apology late Wednesday on behalf of itself and the vessel's Hong Kong-based owner, King Trader Ltd.

Addressing delays in responding to the disaster, KP&amp;I said a tug initially tried to manoeuvre the ship off the reef but poor weather intervened and pushed it further onshore.

Rennell Island is the largest raised coral atoll in the world and includes a UNESCO World Heritage site which extends kilometers out to sea.

The Islanders rely on waters in the ecologically delicate region for their livelihoods.

Experts and specialized equipment are now on site from as far afield as Australia, New Zealand, Vanuatu, the United States, Singapore, and Europe.

They are cleaning up the shore and removing the remaining oil from the ship, while divers were to inspect the hull and seal any leaks.

The Australian government has sent salvage experts to assist the response and vowed to help the Solomons make sure those responsible for the spill are held to account.

Australia expressed alarm Friday at the slow response from firms linked to a grounded cargo ship that has for weeks been leaking oil into a World Heritage-listed coral atoll in the Solomon Islands.

Australia expressed alarm Friday at the slow response from firms linked to a grounded cargo ship that has for weeks been leaking oil into a World Heritage-listed coral atoll in the Solomon Islands. MV Solomon Trader ran aground during high winds on February 5 while loading bauxite at remote Rennell Island. More than a month later, the 225-meter (740-foot) ship is still stuck on the reef and has leaked more than 70 tonnes of heavy fuel oil into the sea, with another 600 tonnes still on the stricken vessel. "We needed much speedier action in response to what is potentially a very significant natural disaster," Australia's minister for international development and the Pacific, Anne Ruston, told AFP Friday. "We would have liked to have seen that the operator and their necessary insurers were a little bit quicker to respond to what was happening, instead of leaving it up to Australia and the Solomon Islands to respond." The ship's insurer, Korean Protection and Indemnity Club (KP&I), issued an apology late Wednesday on behalf of itself and the vessel's Hong Kong-based owner, King Trader Ltd. Addressing delays in responding to the disaster, KP&I said a tug initially tried to manoeuvre the ship off the reef but poor weather intervened and pushed it further onshore. Rennell Island is the largest raised coral atoll in the world and includes a UNESCO World Heritage site which extends kilometers out to sea. The Islanders rely on waters in the ecologically delicate region for their livelihoods. Experts and specialized equipment are now on site from as far afield as Australia, New Zealand, Vanuatu, the United States, Singapore, and Europe. They are cleaning up the shore and removing the remaining oil from the ship, while divers were to inspect the hull and seal any leaks. The Australian government has sent salvage experts to assist the response and vowed to help the Solomons make sure those responsible for the spill are held to account.

Australia blames firms for slow response to Solomons oil spill

A match-winning performance against Australia in the second ODI has boosted his chances of securing a World Cup spot but India all-rounder Vijay Shankar insists he is not losing sleep over his selection.&nbsp;

Captain Virat Kohli handed the ball to Shankar when Australia needed 11 runs from the last over and India required two wickets for a win. Shankar dismissed Marcus Stoinis and Adam Zampa in three balls, delivering when it mattered.&nbsp;

"I've said previously also that I never think about the selection or World Cup thing because it's a long way off from now. Every game is very important. I just look to give my best and win a game for the team," said the Tamil Nadu all-rounder.

Shankar said the tough final of the Nidahas Trophy in Sri Lanka last year when he struggled to rotate strike was a big learning curve for him and it helped him in pressure situation today.

"To be honest the Nidahas Trophy has taught me too many things. Actually, I learnt to how to stay neutral after that. Be it high or low, it doesn't matter. I need to stay calm and neutral all the time."

"I was just ready for the challenge because I knew I had to bowl that one over. And I was just telling (myself) after the 43rd-44th over, I am going to bowl anytime. Maybe the last over and I should be ready to defend a total of 10 runs or 15 runs. So, I was mentally prepared for that."

The young all-rounder said experienced Jasprit Bumrah also guided him while approaching the final over.&nbsp;

"After the 48th over, Bumrah came up to me and said the ball is reversing a bit. He told me that I need to hit the right length on this wicket, where I give myself a chance to hit the stumps.&nbsp;

"When he said that, I was clear mentally that the only way to defend those runs is by picking wickets and if I can bowl straighter, (I'll) give myself a chance to take wickets," he said adding that he only bowled the last over for his club side before this.

Shankar said he would not over-react after taking match-winning wickets but is glad that he could help the team win.

"Just because I got the two wickets in the last over does not make me feel really high or happy."

He also batted well, contributed 46 runs off 41 balls before being run out in an unfortunate manner.&nbsp;

"When you get run out like this, I won't say unfortunate, that was struck and he (Kohli) hit the ball so hard and I didn't have much time to get back in (to the crease) but then these things happen in cricket. As long as I bat well and as long as contribute to the team's win, I will be happy."&nbsp;

A match-winning performance against Australia in the second ODI has boosted his chances of securing a World Cup spot but India all-rounder Vijay Shankar insists he is not losing sleep over his selection.

A match-winning performance against Australia in the second ODI has boosted his chances of securing a World Cup spot but India all-rounder Vijay Shankar insists he is not losing sleep over his selection. Captain Virat Kohli handed the ball to Shankar when Australia needed 11 runs from the last over and India required two wickets for a win. Shankar dismissed Marcus Stoinis and Adam Zampa in three balls, delivering when it mattered. "I've said previously also that I never think about the selection or World Cup thing because it's a long way off from now. Every game is very important. I just look to give my best and win a game for the team," said the Tamil Nadu all-rounder. Shankar said the tough final of the Nidahas Trophy in Sri Lanka last year when he struggled to rotate strike was a big learning curve for him and it helped him in pressure situation today. "To be honest the Nidahas Trophy has taught me too many things. Actually, I learnt to how to stay neutral after that. Be it high or low, it doesn't matter. I need to stay calm and neutral all the time." "I was just ready for the challenge because I knew I had to bowl that one over. And I was just telling (myself) after the 43rd-44th over, I am going to bowl anytime. Maybe the last over and I should be ready to defend a total of 10 runs or 15 runs. So, I was mentally prepared for that." The young all-rounder said experienced Jasprit Bumrah also guided him while approaching the final over. "After the 48th over, Bumrah came up to me and said the ball is reversing a bit. He told me that I need to hit the right length on this wicket, where I give myself a chance to hit the stumps. "When he said that, I was clear mentally that the only way to defend those runs is by picking wickets and if I can bowl straighter, (I'll) give myself a chance to take wickets," he said adding that he only bowled the last over for his club side before this. Shankar said he would not over-react after taking match-winning wickets but is glad that he could help the team win. "Just because I got the two wickets in the last over does not make me feel really high or happy." He also batted well, contributed 46 runs off 41 balls before being run out in an unfortunate manner. "When you get run out like this, I won't say unfortunate, that was struck and he (Kohli) hit the ball so hard and I didn't have much time to get back in (to the crease) but then these things happen in cricket. As long as I bat well and as long as contribute to the team's win, I will be happy."

World Cup is still a long way off, says Vijay Shankar on his selection chances

A 32-year-old Indian-origin woman dentist has been found dead with stab wounds in Australia, days after she went missing from Sydney’s busiest area under mysterious circumstances, police said on Wednesday. 
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Preethi Reddy’s body was found stuffed in a suitcase in her car parked in an eastern Sydney street, New South Wales Police said.

Her ex-boyfriend has also died in a road accident that appeared deliberate, they said.

Reddy was last seen waiting in line at McDonald’s in George Street on Sunday, the police said.

On Tuesday, the police found her car parked in Strachan Lane in Kingsford. Inside the car, they found her body in a suitcase, according to media reports.

Her body had been stabbed numerous times. She and her ex-boyfriend stayed in a hotel in Market Street in Sydney’s CBD on Sunday, officials said.

Reddy was attending a dental conference in St Leonards at the weekend and last spoke to her family at around 11 AM on Sunday.

She told them that she would head home after breakfast, and when she failed to return, her family contacted police.

NSW Police described Reddy’s disappearance as “out of character” and said there were serious concerns of her welfare.

Her work colleagues said they were “terrified” and had been unable to sleep since her disappearance.

“It’s devastating, and this is completely out of character,” dental assistant Chelsea Holmes of Glenbrook Dental Surgery was quoted as saying by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation.

“We got a call on Monday asking if she had turned up to work … and now we are just hoping and none of us has been able to sleep.

“I spoke to her last Thursday and it was ‘see you next week’ and completely normal,” she said adding “Now I am just praying she will be found,” Holmes said.

The NSW police said they were appealing for information in relation to her whereabouts.

Reddy attended a dental convention at St Leonards at the weekend, and last spoke with her family about 11am on Sunday, saying she planned to head home after having a late breakfast in Sydney, according to the police.

She was reported missing to Nepean Police Area Command later that night after she failed to arrive home, police added.

A 32-year-old Indian-origin woman dentist has been found dead with stab wounds in Australia, days after she went missing from Sydney’s busiest area under mysterious circumstances, police said on Wednesday.

A 32-year-old Indian-origin woman dentist has been found dead with stab wounds in Australia, days after she went missing from Sydney’s busiest area under mysterious circumstances, police said on Wednesday. Advertising Preethi Reddy’s body was found stuffed in a suitcase in her car parked in an eastern Sydney street, New South Wales Police said. Her ex-boyfriend has also died in a road accident that appeared deliberate, they said. Reddy was last seen waiting in line at McDonald’s in George Street on Sunday, the police said. On Tuesday, the police found her car parked in Strachan Lane in Kingsford. Inside the car, they found her body in a suitcase, according to media reports. Her body had been stabbed numerous times. She and her ex-boyfriend stayed in a hotel in Market Street in Sydney’s CBD on Sunday, officials said. Reddy was attending a dental conference in St Leonards at the weekend and last spoke to her family at around 11 AM on Sunday. She told them that she would head home after breakfast, and when she failed to return, her family contacted police. NSW Police described Reddy’s disappearance as “out of character” and said there were serious concerns of her welfare. Her work colleagues said they were “terrified” and had been unable to sleep since her disappearance. “It’s devastating, and this is completely out of character,” dental assistant Chelsea Holmes of Glenbrook Dental Surgery was quoted as saying by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation. “We got a call on Monday asking if she had turned up to work … and now we are just hoping and none of us has been able to sleep. “I spoke to her last Thursday and it was ‘see you next week’ and completely normal,” she said adding “Now I am just praying she will be found,” Holmes said. The NSW police said they were appealing for information in relation to her whereabouts. Reddy attended a dental convention at St Leonards at the weekend, and last spoke with her family about 11am on Sunday, saying she planned to head home after having a late breakfast in Sydney, according to the police. She was reported missing to Nepean Police Area Command later that night after she failed to arrive home, police added.

Indian-origin woman dentist killed in Australia, body found in suitcase

Indian-origin dentist found dead In Sydney

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/enhance-security-government-issues-alert-to-at-all-airports-airlines-200723">Enhance security, Indian government issues alert to all airports, airlines</a>

The government on Saturday issued an "alert" for all airports and airlines in the country, asking them to "enhance the existing security measures", as it has received intelligence inputs in the aftermath of the Pulwama attack and subsequent developments.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-india-vs-australia-1st-odi-at-rajiv-gandhi-international-stadium-200657">Live updates | INDvsAUS, 1st ODI: Dhawan out for nought, India are 4/1 after 2 overs</a>

Nathan Coulter-Nile to Dhawan, caught out by Maxwell.&nbsp;

It's no doubt a big wicket for Australia and it might create pressure on the India side.&nbsp;

Skipper Kohli comes to the crease.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/defence-minister-nirmala-sitharaman-meets-wing-commander-abhinandan-he-is-currently-undergoing-cooling-process-200730">Wing Commander Abhinandan undergoing 'cooling process', is met by Nirmala Sitharaman</a>

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman met Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman on Saturday.&nbsp;

Abhinandan was released from Pakistani custody on Friday night and has since then been kept at the Air Force Central Medical Establishment in Delhi.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/dragon-capsule-successfully-separates-from-rocket-spacex-200705">SpaceX astronaut capsule separates from </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/dragon-capsule-successfully-separates-from-rocket-spacex-200705">rocket</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/dragon-capsule-successfully-separates-from-rocket-spacex-200705">, is en route to International Space Station</a>

NASA and SpaceX celebrated the successful launch Saturday of a new astronaut capsule on a week-long round trip to the International Space Station -- a key step towards resuming manned space flights from US soil after an eight-year break.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/samjhauta-express-services-restored-train-to-run-from-india-on-sunday-railways-200726">Samjhauta Express services restored; train to run from India to Pak to Sunday</a>

The Samjhauta Express will leave for Pakistan from Delhi on Sunday after the two neighbours agreed to operationalise services at their ends, a senior railway official told PTI.

The announcement came a day after Pakistan released Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman.

Enhance security, Indian government issues alert to all airports, airlines The government on Saturday issued an "alert" for all airports and airlines in the country, asking them to "enhance the existing security measures", as it has received intelligence inputs in the aftermath of the Pulwama attack and subsequent developments.

Enhance security, Indian government issues alert to all airports, airlines The government on Saturday issued an "alert" for all airports and airlines in the country, asking them to "enhance the existing security measures", as it has received intelligence inputs in the aftermath of the Pulwama attack and subsequent developments. Live updates | INDvsAUS, 1st ODI: Dhawan out for nought, India are 4/1 after 2 overs Nathan Coulter-Nile to Dhawan, caught out by Maxwell. It's no doubt a big wicket for Australia and it might create pressure on the India side. Skipper Kohli comes to the crease. Wing Commander Abhinandan undergoing 'cooling process', is met by Nirmala Sitharaman Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman met Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman on Saturday. Abhinandan was released from Pakistani custody on Friday night and has since then been kept at the Air Force Central Medical Establishment in Delhi. SpaceX astronaut capsule separates from rocket, is en route to International Space Station NASA and SpaceX celebrated the successful launch Saturday of a new astronaut capsule on a week-long round trip to the International Space Station -- a key step towards resuming manned space flights from US soil after an eight-year break. Samjhauta Express services restored; train to run from India to Pak to Sunday The Samjhauta Express will leave for Pakistan from Delhi on Sunday after the two neighbours agreed to operationalise services at their ends, a senior railway official told PTI. The announcement came a day after Pakistan released Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Two more key Australian ministers Saturday announced their retirement from politics before elections in May, amid a huge exodus of politicians from the Liberal Party in recent weeks.

Defense Minister Christopher Pyne, considered one of the most moderate politicians in the administration of Prime Minister Scott Morrison, confirmed his retirement after 26 years in politics on Saturday morning.

Pyne, who had retained his South Australian seat since 1993, said he will not contest the May elections as he is planning to move into the private sector.

Minister of Defense Industry, Steven Ciobo, also resigned Saturday morning with immediate effect after 17 years in Parliament and said he, too, will not be contesting the upcoming elections.

Morrison appointed Linda Reynolds, Australia's first female brigadier in the Army Reserve, as the new Minister for Defence Industry, and said her appointment took the number of women ministers in his cabinet to seven, the highest number on record.

"Our Government has a plan to make Australia even stronger, Linda is part of my team that'll make that happen," Morrison tweeted.

Pyne, in charge of a $200 billion expansion of Australia's military capability, and Ciobo, join a growing number of Liberal ministers, who have quit ahead of the elections, including former Foreign Minister Julie Bishop, Minister for Jobs Kelly O'Dwyer, Human Services Minister Michael Keenan and Indigenous Affairs Minister Nigel Scullion.

The centre-right government is not a favourite to win the May elections and the retirement of senior members of the cabinet just ahead of the elections have complicated its future even further.

Morrison will need to retain all the parliamentary seats held by his coalition government, but with senior ministers jumping ship just ahead of the elections it seems a tough battle.

Morrison confirmed the decisions of the two ministers in a televised speech while expressing confidence that public support will help them sail through the elections.

Although no dates have been confirmed as yet, Australia must elect before May 19 half of the 76 members of the Senate and will hold elections before November to elect the 151 members of the next House of Representatives.

Two more key Australian ministers Saturday announced their retirement from politics before elections in May, amid a huge exodus of politicians from the Liberal Party in recent weeks.

Two more key Australian ministers Saturday announced their retirement from politics before elections in May, amid a huge exodus of politicians from the Liberal Party in recent weeks. Defense Minister Christopher Pyne, considered one of the most moderate politicians in the administration of Prime Minister Scott Morrison, confirmed his retirement after 26 years in politics on Saturday morning. Pyne, who had retained his South Australian seat since 1993, said he will not contest the May elections as he is planning to move into the private sector. Minister of Defense Industry, Steven Ciobo, also resigned Saturday morning with immediate effect after 17 years in Parliament and said he, too, will not be contesting the upcoming elections. Morrison appointed Linda Reynolds, Australia's first female brigadier in the Army Reserve, as the new Minister for Defence Industry, and said her appointment took the number of women ministers in his cabinet to seven, the highest number on record. "Our Government has a plan to make Australia even stronger, Linda is part of my team that'll make that happen," Morrison tweeted. Pyne, in charge of a $200 billion expansion of Australia's military capability, and Ciobo, join a growing number of Liberal ministers, who have quit ahead of the elections, including former Foreign Minister Julie Bishop, Minister for Jobs Kelly O'Dwyer, Human Services Minister Michael Keenan and Indigenous Affairs Minister Nigel Scullion. The centre-right government is not a favourite to win the May elections and the retirement of senior members of the cabinet just ahead of the elections have complicated its future even further. Morrison will need to retain all the parliamentary seats held by his coalition government, but with senior ministers jumping ship just ahead of the elections it seems a tough battle. Morrison confirmed the decisions of the two ministers in a televised speech while expressing confidence that public support will help them sail through the elections. Although no dates have been confirmed as yet, Australia must elect before May 19 half of the 76 members of the Senate and will hold elections before November to elect the 151 members of the next House of Representatives.

Australia's political crisis deepens as more ministers resign

The importance of the one-day series against Australia beginning on Saturday is not lost on Virat Kohli's India as they gauge their World Cup preparations against the reigning champions in their final series before the showpiece event.&nbsp;

India capped their memorable tour of Australia, where they registered their first ever test series victory Down Under, by claiming the three-match ODI series 2-1 in January.&nbsp;

Chief selector MSK&nbsp;Prasad told reporters last month that most of the players in&nbsp;the current India side pick themselves and it was a matter of finalising a couple of slots before the World Cup in England and Wales.&nbsp;

The five-match series against Australia is naturally important for a handful of Indian players who want to nail down their places with solid performances against the tourists who have slipped to sixth in world rankings.&nbsp;

Wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant has leapfrogged Dinesh Karthik to be Mahendra Singh Dhoni's understudy behind the stumps, but needs to prove his maturity against Australia to make the flight to England.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-2019-schedule-squad-time-and-venue-197778">India vs Australia 2019: Schedule, Squad, Time and Venue</a>

"The progression of Rishabh in the last one year is phenomenal across the formats," Prasad, a former stumper himself, told ESPNcricinfo recently, describing the exciting 21-year-old's form as a "healthy headache".&nbsp;

"What we actually felt is he needs a bit of maturity now, gain more experience. That is the reason we have included him in India A series wherever possible."&nbsp;

Lokesh Rahul has been thrown a lifeline despite a slump in form and a brief suspension he incurred for inappropriate comments on a television show. The opener impressed with scores of 50 and 47 in the Twenty20 matches against Australia.&nbsp;

"I got some time off from international cricket, so I could come back here and reflect on what wasn't going right for me," said Rahul, who remains optimistic of securing a back-up role to first-choice opening pair Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan.&nbsp;

Australia play an ODI series against Pakistan in United Arab Emirates later this month but coach Justin Langer will hope the series against world number two India will provide answers to many questions.&nbsp;

Finch's lack of form at the top of the batting order has been a concern for a team who eagerly await the return of Steve Smith and David Warner from ball-tampering suspensions which expire at the end of the month.

"We have just got to keep giving him plenty of care and support. We know he'll come good," Langer said, throwing his weight behind Finch.

Usman Khawaja did reasonably well in the home ODI series against India, and while he may not match the strike rate of some of his teammates, Finch's poor form means Australia will keep an eye on how the left-hander fares against India.

Among others, batsman Peter Handscomb will look to prove his prowess against spin while quick Nathan Coulter-Nile will hope to stay on his feet through the series to shed his 'injury-prone' image.

The importance of the one-day series against Australia beginning on Saturday is not lost on Virat Kohli's India as they gauge their World Cup preparations against the reigning champions in their final series before the showpiece event.

The importance of the one-day series against Australia beginning on Saturday is not lost on Virat Kohli's India as they gauge their World Cup preparations against the reigning champions in their final series before the showpiece event. India capped their memorable tour of Australia, where they registered their first ever test series victory Down Under, by claiming the three-match ODI series 2-1 in January. Chief selector MSK Prasad told reporters last month that most of the players in the current India side pick themselves and it was a matter of finalising a couple of slots before the World Cup in England and Wales. The five-match series against Australia is naturally important for a handful of Indian players who want to nail down their places with solid performances against the tourists who have slipped to sixth in world rankings. Wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant has leapfrogged Dinesh Karthik to be Mahendra Singh Dhoni's understudy behind the stumps, but needs to prove his maturity against Australia to make the flight to England. Also Read: India vs Australia 2019: Schedule, Squad, Time and Venue "The progression of Rishabh in the last one year is phenomenal across the formats," Prasad, a former stumper himself, told ESPNcricinfo recently, describing the exciting 21-year-old's form as a "healthy headache". "What we actually felt is he needs a bit of maturity now, gain more experience. That is the reason we have included him in India A series wherever possible." Lokesh Rahul has been thrown a lifeline despite a slump in form and a brief suspension he incurred for inappropriate comments on a television show. The opener impressed with scores of 50 and 47 in the Twenty20 matches against Australia. "I got some time off from international cricket, so I could come back here and reflect on what wasn't going right for me," said Rahul, who remains optimistic of securing a back-up role to first-choice opening pair Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan. Australia play an ODI series against Pakistan in United Arab Emirates later this month but coach Justin Langer will hope the series against world number two India will provide answers to many questions. Finch's lack of form at the top of the batting order has been a concern for a team who eagerly await the return of Steve Smith and David Warner from ball-tampering suspensions which expire at the end of the month. "We have just got to keep giving him plenty of care and support. We know he'll come good," Langer said, throwing his weight behind Finch. Usman Khawaja did reasonably well in the home ODI series against India, and while he may not match the strike rate of some of his teammates, Finch's poor form means Australia will keep an eye on how the left-hander fares against India. Among others, batsman Peter Handscomb will look to prove his prowess against spin while quick Nathan Coulter-Nile will hope to stay on his feet through the series to shed his 'injury-prone' image.

India vs Australia, 1st ODI: Virat Kohli to evaluate World Cup plans against defending champions

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/no-remorse-prosecutors-call-for-immediate-imprisonment-of-australian-cardinal-george-pell-199943">Australia's Cardinal George Pell</a>, a former top adviser to Pope Francis, was remanded into custody on Wednesday after a sentence plea hearing on his conviction for sexually abusing two choir boys more than two decades ago.

Pell will be formally sentenced on March 13.

Pell faces a maximum of 10 years in jail for each of five child sex offences, which included indecent assault and one charge of sexual penetration.

His lawyers have lodged an appeal against his conviction.

Pell was found guilty of child sex abuse in December. The guilty verdict was revealed on Tuesday after a court suppression order was dropped.

Judge Peter Kidd revoked Pell's bail on Wednesday, granted for medical treatment after his 2018 trial, and he was immediately taken into custody at the end of the plea hearing.

Pell, the Vatican's former treasurer, is the most senior Catholic clergyman in the world to be convicted for child sex offences, an outcome that shocked the church and his supporters.

"This offending warrants immediate imprisonment," prosecutor Mark Gibson told the court on Wednesday. "It involved two vulnerable boys, given their age, 13."

Pell's lawyer Robert Richter argued for a lenient sentence.

Ten character references submitted for Pell describe him as a man of great passion, with a great sense of humour who could relate to everyone from prime ministers to street beggars, Richter told the court.

"None of them believe he is capable of this," Richter said.

Australia's Cardinal George Pell, a former top adviser to Pope Francis, was remanded into custody on Wednesday after a sentence plea hearing on his conviction for sexually abusing two choir boys more than two decades ago.

Australia's Cardinal George Pell, a former top adviser to Pope Francis, was remanded into custody on Wednesday after a sentence plea hearing on his conviction for sexually abusing two choir boys more than two decades ago. Pell will be formally sentenced on March 13. Pell faces a maximum of 10 years in jail for each of five child sex offences, which included indecent assault and one charge of sexual penetration. His lawyers have lodged an appeal against his conviction. Pell was found guilty of child sex abuse in December. The guilty verdict was revealed on Tuesday after a court suppression order was dropped. Judge Peter Kidd revoked Pell's bail on Wednesday, granted for medical treatment after his 2018 trial, and he was immediately taken into custody at the end of the plea hearing. Pell, the Vatican's former treasurer, is the most senior Catholic clergyman in the world to be convicted for child sex offences, an outcome that shocked the church and his supporters. "This offending warrants immediate imprisonment," prosecutor Mark Gibson told the court on Wednesday. "It involved two vulnerable boys, given their age, 13." Pell's lawyer Robert Richter argued for a lenient sentence. Ten character references submitted for Pell describe him as a man of great passion, with a great sense of humour who could relate to everyone from prime ministers to street beggars, Richter told the court. "None of them believe he is capable of this," Richter said.

Australia's Cardinal George Pell remanded into custody for child sex offences

Hours, after India confirmed that it's air force, struck the biggest camp of United Nations listed terror group Jaish e Mohammed in Pakistan's Balakot, New Delhi was quick to inform world capitals of the developments.&nbsp;

The Indian External Affairs Minister (EAM) Sushma Swaraj spoke to five of her counterparts. The EAM spoke to United States secretary of state Mike Pompeo, Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi, Singaporean foreign minister Vivian Balakrishnan and in the neighbourhood, Afghan foreign minister Salahuddin Rabbani and Bangladesh's foreign minister Dr AK Abdul Momen.

In her calls, she briefed how about the Indian strikes were non-military preemptive action against the terror group that has been responsible for many attacks in India.

Jaish e Mohammed (JeM) claimed responsibility of the Pulwama terror attack on 14th February killing 40 of India's security personnel in Jammu and Kashmir. The worst attack in over 2 decades on Indian forces. JeM was also responsible for the 2001 attack on the Indian parliament and 2016 attack on the Pathankot airbase. According to Indian intelligence reports, Jaish was also planning more suicide terror attacks in the country in the aftermath of the Pulwama terror attack.

India briefs foreign envoys

Earlier in the day, India briefed foreign envoys in the countries regarding its action. The foreign secretary Vijay Gokhale briefed envoys of the P5 or the permanent five countries of the United Nations security council which include--China, Russia, US, France and UK, ASEAN bloc, Brazil, Australia, Brazil, Germany, Kuwait and neighbouring countries like Bhutan, Maldives, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka.

A source told WION that during the briefing, Foreign secretary asked "international community to impress upon Pakistan the need for it to take action to seriously fight terrorism" and the aim of India preemptive action.

Later Dean of Diplomatic Corps Hans Dannenberg Castellanos speaking to reporters outside the MEA said,"The message was exactly the one conveyed to media, the operation was a very directed one and did not impact any civilians in Pakistan and did not impact any military installations in Pakistan.. and it was a pre-emptive strike to avoid any terrorist attacks in India, they had credible intelligence that the people who were planning it was in that camp. It was a responsible action We have to inform our capital"

Global reaction: Pressure on Pakistan

Meanwhile, reactions have started to come. Australia was the first country to react. While expressing concern, Australian foreign minister in a release said, "Pakistan must take urgent and meaningful action against terrorist groups in its territory, including Jaish-e-Mohammed"

Australia urged that Islamabad "must do everything possible to implement its own prescription of Jaish-e-Mohammed" and can "no longer allow extremist groups the legal and physical space to operate from its territory."

The United Kingdom also said its "concerned by rising tensions". While asking both India and Pakistan to avoid taking action that poses risk to regional stability, London said its working closely with international partners, including in the "United Nations Security Council (UNSC), to ensure that those responsible for the Pulwama attack are held to account.”

Wion has learnt that UK is working on the listing of Jaish-e-Mohammed leader Masood Azhar under UN Security Council Resolution 1267 and has had discussions with members of UNSC on this issue.

France last week said it will propose listing of JEM chief Azhar for his listing as an international terrorist, something that has been scuttled by China many times in the past citing lack of consensus at the 1267 committee of UNSC.

Pakistan all weather ally China has taken a cautious stance. Asked about the Indian strikes, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lu Kang called both India and Pakistan to "exercise restraint" and do more to "improve their bilateral relations"

Indian external affairs minister will be in China on Wednesday for the RIC or Russia, India, China foreign ministers meet in which she will be strongly raising with Bejing listing of Masood Azhar as an international terrorist under UN list.&nbsp;

Pakistan dials us

Meanwhile, in a copy move, Pakistani foreign minister SM Qureshi has been briefing diplomatic corp in Islamabad post-Indian strikes in Pakistan. He spoke to US secretary of state Mike Pompeo.

In the aftermath of Pulwama, he has been calling his global counterparts saying Islamabad is willing to act if given actionable evidence of its involvement in Pulwama terror attack, only to be told Pakistan must act on terror groups on its soil.

Monday releases from European Union (EU) and Germany foreign offices both have called on Pakistan not to allow its territory as a safe haven for terror groups with EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Federica Mogherini saying Islamabad needs to act on terrorism in a &nbsp;clear and sustained actions manner.

Pakistan also summoned Indian Acting High Commissioner to lodge a protest on Indians strikes and accepted that Indian aircraft were present in its air space in wee hours of Tuesday morning.

Hours, after India confirmed that it's air force, struck the biggest camp of United Nations listed terror group Jaish e Mohammed in Pakistan's Balakot, New Delhi was quick to inform world capitals of the developments.

Hours, after India confirmed that it's air force, struck the biggest camp of United Nations listed terror group Jaish e Mohammed in Pakistan's Balakot, New Delhi was quick to inform world capitals of the developments. The Indian External Affairs Minister (EAM) Sushma Swaraj spoke to five of her counterparts. The EAM spoke to United States secretary of state Mike Pompeo, Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi, Singaporean foreign minister Vivian Balakrishnan and in the neighbourhood, Afghan foreign minister Salahuddin Rabbani and Bangladesh's foreign minister Dr AK Abdul Momen. In her calls, she briefed how about the Indian strikes were non-military preemptive action against the terror group that has been responsible for many attacks in India. Jaish e Mohammed (JeM) claimed responsibility of the Pulwama terror attack on 14th February killing 40 of India's security personnel in Jammu and Kashmir. The worst attack in over 2 decades on Indian forces. JeM was also responsible for the 2001 attack on the Indian parliament and 2016 attack on the Pathankot airbase. According to Indian intelligence reports, Jaish was also planning more suicide terror attacks in the country in the aftermath of the Pulwama terror attack. India briefs foreign envoys Earlier in the day, India briefed foreign envoys in the countries regarding its action. The foreign secretary Vijay Gokhale briefed envoys of the P5 or the permanent five countries of the United Nations security council which include--China, Russia, US, France and UK, ASEAN bloc, Brazil, Australia, Brazil, Germany, Kuwait and neighbouring countries like Bhutan, Maldives, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka. A source told WION that during the briefing, Foreign secretary asked "international community to impress upon Pakistan the need for it to take action to seriously fight terrorism" and the aim of India preemptive action. Later Dean of Diplomatic Corps Hans Dannenberg Castellanos speaking to reporters outside the MEA said,"The message was exactly the one conveyed to media, the operation was a very directed one and did not impact any civilians in Pakistan and did not impact any military installations in Pakistan.. and it was a pre-emptive strike to avoid any terrorist attacks in India, they had credible intelligence that the people who were planning it was in that camp. It was a responsible action We have to inform our capital" Global reaction: Pressure on Pakistan Meanwhile, reactions have started to come. Australia was the first country to react. While expressing concern, Australian foreign minister in a release said, "Pakistan must take urgent and meaningful action against terrorist groups in its territory, including Jaish-e-Mohammed" Australia urged that Islamabad "must do everything possible to implement its own prescription of Jaish-e-Mohammed" and can "no longer allow extremist groups the legal and physical space to operate from its territory." The United Kingdom also said its "concerned by rising tensions". While asking both India and Pakistan to avoid taking action that poses risk to regional stability, London said its working closely with international partners, including in the "United Nations Security Council (UNSC), to ensure that those responsible for the Pulwama attack are held to account.” Wion has learnt that UK is working on the listing of Jaish-e-Mohammed leader Masood Azhar under UN Security Council Resolution 1267 and has had discussions with members of UNSC on this issue. France last week said it will propose listing of JEM chief Azhar for his listing as an international terrorist, something that has been scuttled by China many times in the past citing lack of consensus at the 1267 committee of UNSC. Pakistan all weather ally China has taken a cautious stance. Asked about the Indian strikes, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lu Kang called both India and Pakistan to "exercise restraint" and do more to "improve their bilateral relations" Indian external affairs minister will be in China on Wednesday for the RIC or Russia, India, China foreign ministers meet in which she will be strongly raising with Bejing listing of Masood Azhar as an international terrorist under UN list. Pakistan dials us Meanwhile, in a copy move, Pakistani foreign minister SM Qureshi has been briefing diplomatic corp in Islamabad post-Indian strikes in Pakistan. He spoke to US secretary of state Mike Pompeo. In the aftermath of Pulwama, he has been calling his global counterparts saying Islamabad is willing to act if given actionable evidence of its involvement in Pulwama terror attack, only to be told Pakistan must act on terror groups on its soil. Monday releases from European Union (EU) and Germany foreign offices both have called on Pakistan not to allow its territory as a safe haven for terror groups with EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Federica Mogherini saying Islamabad needs to act on terrorism in a clear and sustained actions manner. Pakistan also summoned Indian Acting High Commissioner to lodge a protest on Indians strikes and accepted that Indian aircraft were present in its air space in wee hours of Tuesday morning.

Diplomacy takes over after India strikes; EAM calls 5 foreign ministers; UK, Australia says Pakistan must act on terror

Former Australia batsman <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=Cameron+Bancroft">Cameron Bancroft</a> has played down any talk of a rift with David Warner after being accused of throwing his fellow opener "under a bus" in a controversial interview about the Cape Town ball-tampering scandal.

Bancroft, who was suspended for nine months for his part in the Newlands incident, made a successful return to first class cricket on Saturday, unbeaten on 73 for Western Australia at stumps on the first day.

The 26-year-old was roundly criticised for casting Warner as the instigator in an interview during the Boxing Day test against India, while describing himself as an impressionable rookie just wanting to "fit in" to the team.

Former Australia captain and TV pundit Ricky Ponting, now employed as a coaching consultant for the one-day international team, said Bancroft had further "damaged (his) brand", while Michael Slater said he had "buried" Warner.

Two months on from the interview, Bancroft said he had been in touch with Warner, and that all three banned players had supported each other through their "journey".

"I think all of us, including Dave, have been really challenged through this period of time," Bancroft told state radio station ABC.

"I know that all three of us have really stuck by each other and looked after each other well.

"You can't understand the trauma I felt, it was probably very different trauma to how he (Warner) felt, and I can't possibly understand that.

"I guess moving forward there will be great lessons for all of us, including Dave.

"That's something we've all shared with each other and something I've certainly shared with Dave when we've communicated throughout this entire journey."

Bancroft's ban expired in December, while those of Warner and former captain Steve Smith will end March 29.

Bancroft had no regrets about his interview with former Australia wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist, saying he felt he had "important learnings to share".

"I guess if other people were triggered by that, I guess that's their battle to face," he said.

"But if I was able to touch people through some parts of my journey, and to help them I guess break through [in] their lives, that was my sole intention for that."

Bancroft has signed to play with English county side Durham as he looks to regain a place in the test side for the Ashes starting in August.

"I think I love the game far more authentically now," he said.

"You know at times you get caught up in some unhealthy values that playing at the highest level can sometimes present -- at the end of the day it's a game of cricket, and it's nice that that's why I play the game (now)."

Former Australia batsman Cameron Bancroft has played down any talk of a rift with David Warner after being accused of throwing his fellow opener "under a bus" in a controversial interview about the Cape Town ball-tampering scandal.

Former Australia batsman Cameron Bancroft has played down any talk of a rift with David Warner after being accused of throwing his fellow opener "under a bus" in a controversial interview about the Cape Town ball-tampering scandal. Bancroft, who was suspended for nine months for his part in the Newlands incident, made a successful return to first class cricket on Saturday, unbeaten on 73 for Western Australia at stumps on the first day. The 26-year-old was roundly criticised for casting Warner as the instigator in an interview during the Boxing Day test against India, while describing himself as an impressionable rookie just wanting to "fit in" to the team. Former Australia captain and TV pundit Ricky Ponting, now employed as a coaching consultant for the one-day international team, said Bancroft had further "damaged (his) brand", while Michael Slater said he had "buried" Warner. Two months on from the interview, Bancroft said he had been in touch with Warner, and that all three banned players had supported each other through their "journey". "I think all of us, including Dave, have been really challenged through this period of time," Bancroft told state radio station ABC. "I know that all three of us have really stuck by each other and looked after each other well. "You can't understand the trauma I felt, it was probably very different trauma to how he (Warner) felt, and I can't possibly understand that. "I guess moving forward there will be great lessons for all of us, including Dave. "That's something we've all shared with each other and something I've certainly shared with Dave when we've communicated throughout this entire journey." Bancroft's ban expired in December, while those of Warner and former captain Steve Smith will end March 29. Bancroft had no regrets about his interview with former Australia wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist, saying he felt he had "important learnings to share". "I guess if other people were triggered by that, I guess that's their battle to face," he said. "But if I was able to touch people through some parts of my journey, and to help them I guess break through [in] their lives, that was my sole intention for that." Bancroft has signed to play with English county side Durham as he looks to regain a place in the test side for the Ashes starting in August. "I think I love the game far more authentically now," he said. "You know at times you get caught up in some unhealthy values that playing at the highest level can sometimes present -- at the end of the day it's a game of cricket, and it's nice that that's why I play the game (now)."

Cameron Bancroft defends ball-tampering interview, says no David Warner rift

Australia defeated India by three wickets to clinch the first T20 international in a&nbsp;last ball-thriller on Sunday.&nbsp;

The Men in blue were on the verge of winning the game but Umesh Yadav's pale bowling in the last overturned the tables against India.

With just three wickets left, Australia hit 14 runs in the final over to register a dramatic win. Despite losing two early wickets, Glenn Maxwell's firework kept Australia on track as the visitors chased India's 127 runs target. 
&nbsp; 
Maxwell along with D Arcy Short established a partnership of over 60 runs to help their side recover from the early losses. Australia lost two wickets - Marcus Stoinis and Aaron Finch - for just five runs.

Put into bat, India were restricted to a paltry total with opener KL Rahul top-scoring for the side and reached his brilliant half-century to put up a decent total. However, he was dismissed Nathan Coulter-Nile for 50.

His 36-ball inning includes six boundaries and one six.

Wicketkeeper-batsman MS Dhoni failed to score any big runs despite playing 37 balls. He remained not out for 29 which includes just one six.

For the hosts, it was skipper Virat Kohli and KL Rahul fifty-run partnership that lifted India from the early loss of Rohit Sharma, who was dismissed for five runs. &nbsp;

Things were going strong when Kohli was sent back to the pavilion by Adam Zampa for 24 runs which included three sixes.&nbsp;The two played some phenomenal shots to help the team recover.

In bowling, Jasprit Bumrah registered the best figures for India. he clinched three wickets in his four overs and gave just 16 runs. Yuzvendra Chahal and Krunal Pandya took on wicket apiece.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Meanwhile, for Australia,&nbsp;Nathan Coulter-Nile took three wickets and&nbsp;Jason Behrendorff, Adam Zampa and Pat Cummins clinched one wicket each.&nbsp;

By virtue of this win, Australia leads the two-game T20series 1-0. the two teams will next play each other on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Australia defeated India by three wickets to clinch the first T20 international in a last ball-thriller on Sunday. The Men in blue were on the verge of winning the game but Umesh Yadav's pale bowling in the last overturned the tables against India.

Australia defeated India by three wickets to clinch the first T20 international in a last ball-thriller on Sunday. The Men in blue were on the verge of winning the game but Umesh Yadav's pale bowling in the last overturned the tables against India. With just three wickets left, Australia hit 14 runs in the final over to register a dramatic win. Despite losing two early wickets, Glenn Maxwell's firework kept Australia on track as the visitors chased India's 127 runs target. Maxwell along with D Arcy Short established a partnership of over 60 runs to help their side recover from the early losses. Australia lost two wickets - Marcus Stoinis and Aaron Finch - for just five runs. Put into bat, India were restricted to a paltry total with opener KL Rahul top-scoring for the side and reached his brilliant half-century to put up a decent total. However, he was dismissed Nathan Coulter-Nile for 50. His 36-ball inning includes six boundaries and one six. Wicketkeeper-batsman MS Dhoni failed to score any big runs despite playing 37 balls. He remained not out for 29 which includes just one six. For the hosts, it was skipper Virat Kohli and KL Rahul fifty-run partnership that lifted India from the early loss of Rohit Sharma, who was dismissed for five runs. Things were going strong when Kohli was sent back to the pavilion by Adam Zampa for 24 runs which included three sixes. The two played some phenomenal shots to help the team recover. In bowling, Jasprit Bumrah registered the best figures for India. he clinched three wickets in his four overs and gave just 16 runs. Yuzvendra Chahal and Krunal Pandya took on wicket apiece. Meanwhile, for Australia, Nathan Coulter-Nile took three wickets and Jason Behrendorff, Adam Zampa and Pat Cummins clinched one wicket each. By virtue of this win, Australia leads the two-game T20series 1-0. the two teams will next play each other on Wednesday.

1st T20I: Australia beat India by three wickets in last-ball thriller, lead series 1-0

Australia has confirmed that Julian Assange has a valid passport, a key development for the Wikileaks founder, who fears that Ecuador seeks to end his asylum in its London embassy and extradite him to the United States.

The new passport, which would allow Assange, who is in failing health, to return to Australia, was issued in September last year but remained unreported until Saturday. His previous passport had expired.

Senior officials of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) on Thursday told a Senate estimates hearing that Assange had a valid passport, reiterating a statement from last October.

Senator Rex Patrick of minority party Centre Alliance, who has taken up Assange's cause in parliament, asked department officials if they had talked to the United States about safe passage for Assange if he left the embassy.

James Larsen, the department's chief legal officer, said he was not aware of any US proceedings against Assange and so there was nothing to discuss.

"I don’t have a record before me of what our engagement with the United States is specifically concerning Mr Assange," he said.

"We are not aware, on the Australian government’s side, of any legal proceedings initiated within, or by, the United States, concerning Mr Assange."

US officials have acknowledged that federal prosecutors launched a lengthy criminal investigation into Assange and Wikileaks, which published US diplomatic and military secrets under him.

Assange's supporters remain convinced the United States will seek his extradition if he tries to leave the embassy.

"Day 2998 of the unlawful and arbitrary detention of Julian Assange in the United Kingdom," the Defend Assange Campaign said in a message on social network Twitter on Thursday.

"US government continues to seek his arrest and extradition for publishing the truth about the war in Iraq. He has been nominated for the 2019 Nobel Peace Prize."

Assange first took asylum in the embassy in 2012, but his relationship with Ecuador has grown increasingly tense.

In December he was administered a series of medical tests, in line with new rules for his asylum at the embassy that prompted him to sue the government.

Australia has confirmed that Julian Assange has a valid passport, a key development for the Wikileaks founder, who fears that Ecuador seeks to end his asylum in its London embassy and extradite him to the United States.

Australia has confirmed that Julian Assange has a valid passport, a key development for the Wikileaks founder, who fears that Ecuador seeks to end his asylum in its London embassy and extradite him to the United States. The new passport, which would allow Assange, who is in failing health, to return to Australia, was issued in September last year but remained unreported until Saturday. His previous passport had expired. Senior officials of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) on Thursday told a Senate estimates hearing that Assange had a valid passport, reiterating a statement from last October. Senator Rex Patrick of minority party Centre Alliance, who has taken up Assange's cause in parliament, asked department officials if they had talked to the United States about safe passage for Assange if he left the embassy. James Larsen, the department's chief legal officer, said he was not aware of any US proceedings against Assange and so there was nothing to discuss. "I don’t have a record before me of what our engagement with the United States is specifically concerning Mr Assange," he said. "We are not aware, on the Australian government’s side, of any legal proceedings initiated within, or by, the United States, concerning Mr Assange." US officials have acknowledged that federal prosecutors launched a lengthy criminal investigation into Assange and Wikileaks, which published US diplomatic and military secrets under him. Assange's supporters remain convinced the United States will seek his extradition if he tries to leave the embassy. "Day 2998 of the unlawful and arbitrary detention of Julian Assange in the United Kingdom," the Defend Assange Campaign said in a message on social network Twitter on Thursday. "US government continues to seek his arrest and extradition for publishing the truth about the war in Iraq. He has been nominated for the 2019 Nobel Peace Prize." Assange first took asylum in the embassy in 2012, but his relationship with Ecuador has grown increasingly tense. In December he was administered a series of medical tests, in line with new rules for his asylum at the embassy that prompted him to sue the government.

Australia confirms Wikileaks' Assange has valid passport

Australian police on Wednesday resumed the search two backpackers missing for three days near a beach with rough surf, as hopes dimmed for their rescue.

New South Wales Police said the two men, named as 20-year-old Hugo Palmer from England and 21-year-old Erwan Ferrieux from France, went missing near a picturesque strand north of Sydney.

"A search has resumed," police said in a statement asking the public for assistance.

Items of property belonging to the men were found at Shelly Beach on Australia's eastern central coast in the early hours of Monday, along with a silver Commodore car they rented.

"Police divers from Sydney joined the search yesterday and will continue assisting today," police said, raising fears that rescue efforts may soon give way to recovery.

Australian police on Wednesday resumed the search two backpackers missing for three days near a beach with rough surf, as hopes dimmed for their rescue. New South Wales Police said the two men, named as 20-year-old Hugo Palmer from England and 21-year-old Erwan Ferrieux from France, went missing near a picturesque strand north of Sydney.

Australian police on Wednesday resumed the search two backpackers missing for three days near a beach with rough surf, as hopes dimmed for their rescue. New South Wales Police said the two men, named as 20-year-old Hugo Palmer from England and 21-year-old Erwan Ferrieux from France, went missing near a picturesque strand north of Sydney. "A search has resumed," police said in a statement asking the public for assistance. Items of property belonging to the men were found at Shelly Beach on Australia's eastern central coast in the early hours of Monday, along with a silver Commodore car they rented. "Police divers from Sydney joined the search yesterday and will continue assisting today," police said, raising fears that rescue efforts may soon give way to recovery.

Fears grow for European backpackers missing in Australia

WION Gravitas: Australia accuses foreign government of cyber attacks

A cyber attack on Australian lawmakers that breached the networks of major political parties was probably carried out by a foreign government, Prime Minister Scott Morrison said on Monday, but did not name any suspects.

As Australia heads for an election due by May, lawmakers were told this month told to urgently change their passwords after the cyber intelligence agency detected an attack on the national parliament's computer network.

The hackers breached the networks of major political parties, Morrison said, as he issued an initial assessment by investigators.

"Our cyber experts believe that a sophisticated state actor is responsible for this malicious activity," he told parliament.

"We also became aware that the networks of some political parties, Liberal, Labor and Nationals have also been affected."

Morrison did not reveal what information was accessed, but he said there was no evidence of election interference.

Investors are still securing local networks, said Alastair MacGibbon, head of the Australian Cyber Security Centre, the government department responsible for online security.

"Our political institutions represent high-value targets," MacGibbon told reporters in the capital, Canberra.

"We will continue to work with our friends and colleagues, both here and overseas, to work out who is behind it and hopefully their intent."

Analysts have said China, Russia and Iran were the most likely culprits.

"When you consider motivation, you would have to say that China is the leading suspect, while you wouldn't rule out Russia either," said Fergus Hanson, head of the International Cyber Policy Centre at think-tank the Australian Strategic Policy Institute.

"It is the honey pot of juicy political gossip that has been hoovered up. Emails showing everything from the dirty laundry of internal fights through to who supported a policy could be on display."

Ties with China have deteriorated since 2017, after Canberra accused Beijing of meddling in its domestic affairs. Both countries have since sought to mend relations, but Australia remains wary of China.

Tension rose this month after Australia rescinded the visa of a prominent Chinese businessman, just months after barring Chinese telecoms giant Huawei Technologies from supplying equipment to its 5G broadband network.

Officers of Russia's GRU military intelligence agency covertly monitored computers of US Democratic candidate, Hillary Clinton’s 2016 presidential campaign and campaign committees, and stole large amounts of data, US investigators have concluded.

A cyber attack on Australian lawmakers that breached the networks of major political parties was probably carried out by a foreign government, Prime Minister Scott Morrison said on Monday, but did not name any suspects.

A cyber attack on Australian lawmakers that breached the networks of major political parties was probably carried out by a foreign government, Prime Minister Scott Morrison said on Monday, but did not name any suspects. As Australia heads for an election due by May, lawmakers were told this month told to urgently change their passwords after the cyber intelligence agency detected an attack on the national parliament's computer network. The hackers breached the networks of major political parties, Morrison said, as he issued an initial assessment by investigators. "Our cyber experts believe that a sophisticated state actor is responsible for this malicious activity," he told parliament. "We also became aware that the networks of some political parties, Liberal, Labor and Nationals have also been affected." Morrison did not reveal what information was accessed, but he said there was no evidence of election interference. Investors are still securing local networks, said Alastair MacGibbon, head of the Australian Cyber Security Centre, the government department responsible for online security. "Our political institutions represent high-value targets," MacGibbon told reporters in the capital, Canberra. "We will continue to work with our friends and colleagues, both here and overseas, to work out who is behind it and hopefully their intent." Analysts have said China, Russia and Iran were the most likely culprits. "When you consider motivation, you would have to say that China is the leading suspect, while you wouldn't rule out Russia either," said Fergus Hanson, head of the International Cyber Policy Centre at think-tank the Australian Strategic Policy Institute. "It is the honey pot of juicy political gossip that has been hoovered up. Emails showing everything from the dirty laundry of internal fights through to who supported a policy could be on display." Ties with China have deteriorated since 2017, after Canberra accused Beijing of meddling in its domestic affairs. Both countries have since sought to mend relations, but Australia remains wary of China. Tension rose this month after Australia rescinded the visa of a prominent Chinese businessman, just months after barring Chinese telecoms giant Huawei Technologies from supplying equipment to its 5G broadband network. Officers of Russia's GRU military intelligence agency covertly monitored computers of US Democratic candidate, Hillary Clinton’s 2016 presidential campaign and campaign committees, and stole large amounts of data, US investigators have concluded.

Australia accuses foreign government of cyber attack on lawmakers

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