A Covid patient was admitted to Sydney's Westmead hospital after overdosing on ivermectin and other drugs in order to treat Covid infection. The patient was suffering from vomiting and diarrhoea. The patient had ordered the drug online.

The Guradian quoted hospital's toxicologist who said that increasing number of people were being brought to hospitals after taking unproven medicines to treat Covid infection.

“There’s no evidence to support the use of ivermectin to treat Covid-19. Don’t look for magic cures online, and don’t rely on what’s being peddled on the internet, because none of them work,” said the toxicologist.

Australia's chief medical officer Paul Kelly has strongly requested the public not to take unproven medicines to treat Covid infection.&nbsp;

“The reality is, there are many trials that have been done into ivermectin, not a single one of them have shown to be effective,” he said as quoted by The Guardian.

Ivermectin is an anti-parasitic medication. In Australia, it is approved for treatment of round worm infection, river-blindness and scabies.

A Covid patient was admitted to Sydney's Westmead hospital after overdosing on ivermectin and other drugs in order to treat Covid infection. The patient was suffering from vomiting and diarrhoea.

A Covid patient was admitted to Sydney's Westmead hospital after overdosing on ivermectin and other drugs in order to treat Covid infection. The patient was suffering from vomiting and diarrhoea. The patient had ordered the drug online. The Guradian quoted hospital's toxicologist who said that increasing number of people were being brought to hospitals after taking unproven medicines to treat Covid infection. “There’s no evidence to support the use of ivermectin to treat Covid-19. Don’t look for magic cures online, and don’t rely on what’s being peddled on the internet, because none of them work,” said the toxicologist. Australia's chief medical officer Paul Kelly has strongly requested the public not to take unproven medicines to treat Covid infection. “The reality is, there are many trials that have been done into ivermectin, not a single one of them have shown to be effective,” he said as quoted by The Guardian. Ivermectin is an anti-parasitic medication. In Australia, it is approved for treatment of round worm infection, river-blindness and scabies.

Australia: Covid patient overdoses on ivermectin, admitted to Sydney hospital

Victoria is set to become Australia’s first state to ban public display of Nazi symbols. Starting from next year, a ban on extremist propaganda will be brought in.<o:p></o:p>

The new law will prohibit display of swastikas and all other hate symbols and Nazi-related symbols in the state. However, this will not include use of symbols for educational and historical purposes.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/australia-police-can-now-hack-citizens-devices-collect-or-delete-their-data-410011">Australia: Police can now hack citizens' devices, collect or delete their data</a>

<o:p></o:p>

"A couple of years ago we saw a swastika painted on an aged care retirement home full of Holocaust survivors … and it’s not just an issue for the Jewish community, it’s right across the board,"&nbsp;Liberal member for Caulfield, David Southwick said.<o:p></o:p>

Last year, a Nazi flag was waved over a home in the north-west area of Victoria but the authorities were unable to remove the flag as it was not legal.<o:p></o:p>

"This abhorrent behaviour has no place in our state. The fact that you're having to ban something that shouldn’t be happening in 2021 is quite sad, but it’s necessary," Victorian attorney general, Jaclyn Symes said.

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<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-plus-future-of-war-cyber-is-the-new-nuclear-397239/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<o:p></o:p>

Authorities believe this new regulation is bound to “send a strong signal” to everyone in the whole state of Victoria.<o:p></o:p>

Experts have appreciated the new regulation as new symbols of hate have been developed by several extremist groups. "New codes and symbols are continually being developed by hate groups and the legislation will need to be flexible enough to capture this," Peter Wertheim, the co-chief executive officer of peak Jewish body the Executive Council of Australian Jewry told the Guardian. "We hope the federal government will follow suit."<o:p></o:p>

Experts and human rights activists are urging other states and federal government to follow the footsteps of the Victorian government and remove symbols of hatred from the whole nation.<o:p></o:p>

Victoria is set to become Australia’s first state to ban public display of Nazi symbols. Starting from next year, a ban on extremist propaganda will be brought in.

Victoria is set to become Australia’s first state to ban public display of Nazi symbols. Starting from next year, a ban on extremist propaganda will be brought in. The new law will prohibit display of swastikas and all other hate symbols and Nazi-related symbols in the state. However, this will not include use of symbols for educational and historical purposes. Also read | Australia: Police can now hack citizens' devices, collect or delete their data "A couple of years ago we saw a swastika painted on an aged care retirement home full of Holocaust survivors … and it’s not just an issue for the Jewish community, it’s right across the board," Liberal member for Caulfield, David Southwick said. Last year, a Nazi flag was waved over a home in the north-west area of Victoria but the authorities were unable to remove the flag as it was not legal. "This abhorrent behaviour has no place in our state. The fact that you're having to ban something that shouldn’t be happening in 2021 is quite sad, but it’s necessary," Victorian attorney general, Jaclyn Symes said. WATCH | Authorities believe this new regulation is bound to “send a strong signal” to everyone in the whole state of Victoria. Experts have appreciated the new regulation as new symbols of hate have been developed by several extremist groups. "New codes and symbols are continually being developed by hate groups and the legislation will need to be flexible enough to capture this," Peter Wertheim, the co-chief executive officer of peak Jewish body the Executive Council of Australian Jewry told the Guardian. "We hope the federal government will follow suit." Experts and human rights activists are urging other states and federal government to follow the footsteps of the Victorian government and remove symbols of hatred from the whole nation.

Victoria set to become first Australian state to ban display of Nazi symbols

As coronavirus lockdowns weighed more on supply than demand, Australian home prices rose at the fastest annual pace since August 1989, though months of blistering gains are increasingly putting housing beyond the reach of many.

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The Coronavirus restrictions have shuttered swathes of business and the Australian economy is in recession. In this case, all eyes are on the upcoming data on GDP.

World Business Watch: Australian economy faces recession

Over 80, but not 'over the hill'. These seniors are in smashing shape. By continuing to play, they're maintaining more than their physical health.

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As Delta variant of COVID-19 ravages Sydney with more people turning up at hospitals, a startling report has come to the fore revealing that several overworked ICU nurses are sedating patients to manage their workload.

Two intensive care nurses from Sydney’s Royal Prince Alfred and St Vincent’s hospitals have claimed that the surging COVID-19 cases have stretched manpower in the hospital, leaving them understaffed, the Guardian reports.

They claimed that they have been infusing&nbsp;'titration' sedative as per the admissible limits prescribed by a doctor,&nbsp;enough “to knock the patient out” so that they can ensure that the patient remains safe when they divert their attention elsewhere.

“If someone is busy or something happens elsewhere, you turn up the sedation dose to knock the patient out so you can move elsewhere and know there won’t be a problem if you’re not keeping eyes on the patient,” a nurse, who didn’t wish to be named, told the Guardian.

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“It’s a bad thing because you want the patients to do more breathing on their own, but I know that if I up the sedation they will be safe from dislodging things like ripping out tubes which could be significantly worse for their health than me sedating them for a few hours.

“If we deem it necessary, then we up it, just in the same way we can lower it if we sense a chance for them to come off ventilation. There’s no questions asked at the moment.”

The nurse stressed that increasing sedative dosage during current staffing pressures can be the safest outcome for patients.

Recently, the New South Wales (NSW) Nurses and Midwives’ Association had&nbsp;claimed that the NSW health system has not been staffing ICUs to meet professional standards, and said the understaffing was a problem before the pandemic but that it has become significantly worse during the Delta outbreak.

On Monday, NSW recorded 1,290 new cases of COVID-19 in the 24 hours. There are now 126 people in intensive care, with 54 on ventilators. Of those in intensive care, 113 had not received any vaccine doses, while 12 had received one dose and one patient had been double vaccinated.

(With inputs from agencies)

As Delta variant of COVID-19 ravages Sydney with more people turning up at hospitals, a startling report has come to the fore revealing that several overworked ICU nurses are sedating patients to manage their workload.

As Delta variant of COVID-19 ravages Sydney with more people turning up at hospitals, a startling report has come to the fore revealing that several overworked ICU nurses are sedating patients to manage their workload. Two intensive care nurses from Sydney’s Royal Prince Alfred and St Vincent’s hospitals have claimed that the surging COVID-19 cases have stretched manpower in the hospital, leaving them understaffed, the Guardian reports. They claimed that they have been infusing 'titration' sedative as per the admissible limits prescribed by a doctor, enough “to knock the patient out” so that they can ensure that the patient remains safe when they divert their attention elsewhere. “If someone is busy or something happens elsewhere, you turn up the sedation dose to knock the patient out so you can move elsewhere and know there won’t be a problem if you’re not keeping eyes on the patient,” a nurse, who didn’t wish to be named, told the Guardian. Also read | Australia ends COVID-19 vaccine trials after participants develop antibodies for HIV “It’s a bad thing because you want the patients to do more breathing on their own, but I know that if I up the sedation they will be safe from dislodging things like ripping out tubes which could be significantly worse for their health than me sedating them for a few hours. “If we deem it necessary, then we up it, just in the same way we can lower it if we sense a chance for them to come off ventilation. There’s no questions asked at the moment.” The nurse stressed that increasing sedative dosage during current staffing pressures can be the safest outcome for patients. Recently, the New South Wales (NSW) Nurses and Midwives’ Association had claimed that the NSW health system has not been staffing ICUs to meet professional standards, and said the understaffing was a problem before the pandemic but that it has become significantly worse during the Delta outbreak. On Monday, NSW recorded 1,290 new cases of COVID-19 in the 24 hours. There are now 126 people in intensive care, with 54 on ventilators. Of those in intensive care, 113 had not received any vaccine doses, while 12 had received one dose and one patient had been double vaccinated. (With inputs from agencies)

Sydney ICU nurses using sedatives on patients to manage COVID workload: Report

Intensive care cases in Australia's New South Wales will hit a peak in October as COVID-19 infections accumulate, said the premier of the country's most populous state, which reported record daily new infections on Monday.

New South Wales, the epicentre of Australia's current outbreak, declared a record 1,290 new cases.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the state was preparing for additional hospitalisations as infections pile up before increased vaccination coverage starts to ease the pressure.&nbsp;

"We anticipate that the worst month, the worst time for our intensive care unit will be in October," Berejiklian said in the state capital Sydney.&nbsp;

"We will need to manage things differently because we are in the middle of a pandemic, but we will cope."&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghans-pour-into-iran-border-as-taliban-take-control-409352">Also read |&nbsp;Afghans pour into Iran border as Taliban take control</a>

There are 840 people in hospital for COVID-19 in New South Wales, with 137 in intensive care and 48 requiring ventilation.&nbsp;

The state reported four additional fatalities on Monday, taking the COVID-19 death toll to 1,003 in Australia, the last of the Group of 20 big economies to exceed that milestone.

"Aboriginal people were deemed to be vulnerable communities, vulnerable groups in the vaccine rollout. And clearly that has failed," Linda Burney, Labour's Shadow Minister for Indigenous Australians, told reporters. 
Nationwide, a record 1,375 new COVID-19 cases were reported.&nbsp;

Australia's second-most populous state, Victoria, reported 73 new COVID-19 cases on Monday, a day after Premier Dan Andrews said he would extend lockdown measures as daily infections reached the highest in a year. 
&nbsp;

Intensive care cases in Australia's New South Wales will hit a peak in October as COVID-19 infections accumulate, said the premier of the country's most populous state, which reported record daily new infections on Monday.

Intensive care cases in Australia's New South Wales will hit a peak in October as COVID-19 infections accumulate, said the premier of the country's most populous state, which reported record daily new infections on Monday. New South Wales, the epicentre of Australia's current outbreak, declared a record 1,290 new cases. Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the state was preparing for additional hospitalisations as infections pile up before increased vaccination coverage starts to ease the pressure. "We anticipate that the worst month, the worst time for our intensive care unit will be in October," Berejiklian said in the state capital Sydney. "We will need to manage things differently because we are in the middle of a pandemic, but we will cope." Also read | Afghans pour into Iran border as Taliban take control There are 840 people in hospital for COVID-19 in New South Wales, with 137 in intensive care and 48 requiring ventilation. The state reported four additional fatalities on Monday, taking the COVID-19 death toll to 1,003 in Australia, the last of the Group of 20 big economies to exceed that milestone. "Aboriginal people were deemed to be vulnerable communities, vulnerable groups in the vaccine rollout. And clearly that has failed," Linda Burney, Labour's Shadow Minister for Indigenous Australians, told reporters. Nationwide, a record 1,375 new COVID-19 cases were reported. Australia's second-most populous state, Victoria, reported 73 new COVID-19 cases on Monday, a day after Premier Dan Andrews said he would extend lockdown measures as daily infections reached the highest in a year.

Australian state warns COVID-19 hospitalisations to peak in October

The entire multi-format series in the Indian women`s team tour of Australia will now be played in the state of Queensland due to the restrictions caused by the outbreak of COVID-19 in the country. The change is subject to final approval for the Indian team`s quarantine in Brisbane. 
 
It is also reported that the start of the series will be delayed by two days. "After the quarantine, the Indians will play a practice match in Brisbane on September 18. It is understood that the BCCI had asked for the warm-up game and multiple training sessions ahead of it (series) following completion of quarantine, based on their takeaways from India`s tour of UK earlier this year, when there were no tour games, which affected the team`s preparations," said a report by ESPNCricinfo. 
 
The Indian team, consisting of 22 members along with support staff, chief selector Neetu David and panel member V Kalpana, will leave for Australia from Bengaluru later on Sunday and serve a mandatory quarantine till September 13. 
 
The Australian cricketers who are not from Queensland are expected to come next week, with those arriving from Melbourne and Sydney required to quarantine. 
 
In the original schedule, North Sydney Oval and Junction Oval were to host the three ODIs on September 19, 22 and 24. It was to be followed by the one-off pink-ball Test from September 30-October 3 at Perth. After the Test, the three T20Is were to take place at the North Sydney Oval on October 7, 9 and 11. 
 
But the resurgence of COVID-19 has forced lockdowns around Australia and venues to be rejigged. This means that the whole series will be played between two venues -- the Metricon Stadium in Carrara hosting the Test and T20Is, while Harrup Park in Mackay will stage the ODIs. 
 
The Allan Border Field in Brisbane had hosted the limited-overs series between Australia and New Zealand in September-October last year. But the stadium is unavailable due to redevelopment. 
 
"The formal approval of plans by the BCCI is also being sought by Cricket Australia, but sources with knowledge of negotiations indicated that the Indian board had never wavered in its commitment to the tour, having announced its squad last week. Sources with knowledge of talks have indicated that one of the roadblocks to staging the series in other states has been a reluctance to allow players and staff from Sydney or Melbourne to enter for quarantine and training, even though the entire group is fully vaccinated," said a report by The Age and Sydney Morning Herald on Sunday. 
 
The report also said that apart from the women`s series against India, the start of the men`s domestic season with the Marsh Cup will be affected too due to COVID-19. In this situation, staging a successful series against India will help Cricket Australia (CA) in building a case for the men`s Ashes to be hosted later in the year. 
 
"The successful arrival of India`s team and staging of the series would be a helpful outcome for CA at a time when it is in talks with the ECB about terms around the playing of the men`s Ashes series this summer. England`s players have raised concern about quarantine terms for themselves and their families, to the point that as many as 10 players have indicated they may not tour. However, the provision of quarantine periods with a good degree of freedom of movement at Queensland resorts on the Gold Coast - affording plenty of outdoor activity and golf courses - would likely assuage many of these concerns," further said the report.

The entire multi-format series in the Indian women`s team tour of Australia will now be played in the state of Queensland due to the restrictions caused by the outbreak of COVID-19 in the country.

The entire multi-format series in the Indian women`s team tour of Australia will now be played in the state of Queensland due to the restrictions caused by the outbreak of COVID-19 in the country. The change is subject to final approval for the Indian team`s quarantine in Brisbane. It is also reported that the start of the series will be delayed by two days. "After the quarantine, the Indians will play a practice match in Brisbane on September 18. It is understood that the BCCI had asked for the warm-up game and multiple training sessions ahead of it (series) following completion of quarantine, based on their takeaways from India`s tour of UK earlier this year, when there were no tour games, which affected the team`s preparations," said a report by ESPNCricinfo. The Indian team, consisting of 22 members along with support staff, chief selector Neetu David and panel member V Kalpana, will leave for Australia from Bengaluru later on Sunday and serve a mandatory quarantine till September 13. The Australian cricketers who are not from Queensland are expected to come next week, with those arriving from Melbourne and Sydney required to quarantine. In the original schedule, North Sydney Oval and Junction Oval were to host the three ODIs on September 19, 22 and 24. It was to be followed by the one-off pink-ball Test from September 30-October 3 at Perth. After the Test, the three T20Is were to take place at the North Sydney Oval on October 7, 9 and 11. But the resurgence of COVID-19 has forced lockdowns around Australia and venues to be rejigged. This means that the whole series will be played between two venues -- the Metricon Stadium in Carrara hosting the Test and T20Is, while Harrup Park in Mackay will stage the ODIs. The Allan Border Field in Brisbane had hosted the limited-overs series between Australia and New Zealand in September-October last year. But the stadium is unavailable due to redevelopment. "The formal approval of plans by the BCCI is also being sought by Cricket Australia, but sources with knowledge of negotiations indicated that the Indian board had never wavered in its commitment to the tour, having announced its squad last week. Sources with knowledge of talks have indicated that one of the roadblocks to staging the series in other states has been a reluctance to allow players and staff from Sydney or Melbourne to enter for quarantine and training, even though the entire group is fully vaccinated," said a report by The Age and Sydney Morning Herald on Sunday. The report also said that apart from the women`s series against India, the start of the men`s domestic season with the Marsh Cup will be affected too due to COVID-19. In this situation, staging a successful series against India will help Cricket Australia (CA) in building a case for the men`s Ashes to be hosted later in the year. "The successful arrival of India`s team and staging of the series would be a helpful outcome for CA at a time when it is in talks with the ECB about terms around the playing of the men`s Ashes series this summer. England`s players have raised concern about quarantine terms for themselves and their families, to the point that as many as 10 players have indicated they may not tour. However, the provision of quarantine periods with a good degree of freedom of movement at Queensland resorts on the Gold Coast - affording plenty of outdoor activity and golf courses - would likely assuage many of these concerns," further said the report.

India tour of Australia: All matches to be played in Queensland

As many as 10 England players could be forced to pull out of the Ashes tour of Australia if an agreement is not arrived at over travel and quarantine arrangements for their families.

According to a report in the 'Sydney Morning Herald', unhappy with Cricket Australia's lack of progress on this front, many English players are considering pulling out if their demands are not met.

At a meeting of the England squad at Headingley this week, it is understood there was mounting frustration about a lack of progress by Cricket Australia over quarantine rules, the daily reported.

Australia has some of the strictest COVID-19 quarantine regulations in place and its own cricketers are currently serving two weeks in an Adelaide hotel after returning from a white-ball tour of West Indies and Bangladesh.

The Australian players are also not allowed to train at the moment. It is understood that CA doesn't have enough influence over the government there and even individual states can impose a ban or shut the city entirely on quick notice, disturbing all the agreements made before the players left the UK.

CA said on Saturday it was working closely with government and health officials in its quest to find a solution.

"Cricket Australia continues to work closely with the ECB (England and Wales Cricket Board) and government authorities in Australia regarding the upcoming Ashes series, which will be the centrepiece for one of the biggest summers of cricket on record," a CA statement read.

"We are currently planning the operational requirements of this tour and working with the ECB on the proposed make-up of the England touring party. "As was the case last season, CA will work constructively and in partnership with government to deliver the summer of cricket, while ensuring the health, wellbeing and safety of the community."

The five-Test Ashes series is slated to be held from December 8 to January 18.

As many as 10 England players could be forced to pull out of the Ashes tour of Australia if an agreement is not arrived at over travel and quarantine arrangements for their families.

As many as 10 England players could be forced to pull out of the Ashes tour of Australia if an agreement is not arrived at over travel and quarantine arrangements for their families. According to a report in the 'Sydney Morning Herald', unhappy with Cricket Australia's lack of progress on this front, many English players are considering pulling out if their demands are not met. At a meeting of the England squad at Headingley this week, it is understood there was mounting frustration about a lack of progress by Cricket Australia over quarantine rules, the daily reported. Australia has some of the strictest COVID-19 quarantine regulations in place and its own cricketers are currently serving two weeks in an Adelaide hotel after returning from a white-ball tour of West Indies and Bangladesh. The Australian players are also not allowed to train at the moment. It is understood that CA doesn't have enough influence over the government there and even individual states can impose a ban or shut the city entirely on quick notice, disturbing all the agreements made before the players left the UK. CA said on Saturday it was working closely with government and health officials in its quest to find a solution. "Cricket Australia continues to work closely with the ECB (England and Wales Cricket Board) and government authorities in Australia regarding the upcoming Ashes series, which will be the centrepiece for one of the biggest summers of cricket on record," a CA statement read. "We are currently planning the operational requirements of this tour and working with the ECB on the proposed make-up of the England touring party. "As was the case last season, CA will work constructively and in partnership with government to deliver the summer of cricket, while ensuring the health, wellbeing and safety of the community." The five-Test Ashes series is slated to be held from December 8 to January 18.

10 England players could pull out of Ashes over strict quarantine rules in Australia

Amidst an ongoing Covid crisis in the country, Australia’s government has decided to start vaccinating children between the age of 12 to 15 from September 12.<o:p></o:p>

The decision was taken after technical advice of the Australian government confirmed that Pfizer is suitable for young people. <o:p></o:p>

However, several experts have also warned that an ongoing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccine</a> shortage can cause further trouble if the government starts vaccinating young people right now. Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (Atagi) has suggested that Pfizer doses should not be prioritised for young people. They also advised the government to let adults get an opportunity to choose their vaccine before starting to vaccinate children with Pfizer.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/some-sri-lankans-opt-for-cardboard-coffins-amid-covid-19-surge-408465">WATCH |</a>

<o:p></o:p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/some-sri-lankans-opt-for-cardboard-coffins-amid-covid-19-surge-408465/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

After the announcement, Australian leader Scott Morrison said the country is moving towards a "soft and careful opening" instead of a "big opening". <o:p></o:p>

This announcement has come amidst a new worry of a fresh spread of the virus after two truck drivers tested positive for<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus"> coronavirus</a>. These drivers had travelled from WA to New South Wales. They were also fully vaccinated, wearing face mask and had very limited public exposure, as per reports.<o:p></o:p>

The Western Australian premier Mark McGowan said that he plans to continue border restrictions even if the country reaches 70 per cent vaccination target. "The idea that we would bring down the border and allow open travel … It would be a catastrophe and I’m just not going to do it," McGowan told local media. "The idea we just deliberately infect our citizens when we get to 70% … I just can’t do that, because people will die."<o:p></o:p>

Amidst an ongoing Covid crisis in the country, Australia’s government has decided to start vaccinating children between the age of 12 to 15 from September 12. The decision was taken after technical advice of the Australian government confirmed that Pfizer is suitable for young people.

Amidst an ongoing Covid crisis in the country, Australia’s government has decided to start vaccinating children between the age of 12 to 15 from September 12. The decision was taken after technical advice of the Australian government confirmed that Pfizer is suitable for young people. However, several experts have also warned that an ongoing vaccine shortage can cause further trouble if the government starts vaccinating young people right now. Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (Atagi) has suggested that Pfizer doses should not be prioritised for young people. They also advised the government to let adults get an opportunity to choose their vaccine before starting to vaccinate children with Pfizer. WATCH | After the announcement, Australian leader Scott Morrison said the country is moving towards a "soft and careful opening" instead of a "big opening". This announcement has come amidst a new worry of a fresh spread of the virus after two truck drivers tested positive for coronavirus. These drivers had travelled from WA to New South Wales. They were also fully vaccinated, wearing face mask and had very limited public exposure, as per reports. The Western Australian premier Mark McGowan said that he plans to continue border restrictions even if the country reaches 70 per cent vaccination target. "The idea that we would bring down the border and allow open travel … It would be a catastrophe and I’m just not going to do it," McGowan told local media. "The idea we just deliberately infect our citizens when we get to 70% … I just can’t do that, because people will die."

Coronavirus: Australia to start vaccinating 12 to 15-year-olds soon

Australia's new daily cases of COVID-19 topped 1,000 for the first time since the pandemic began.&nbsp;

Two major hospitals in Sydney have set up emergency outdoor tents to help deal with a rise in patients.

The city is struggling to stamp out a surge in the fast-spreading Delta variant as daily infections are hitting record levels even after two months under lockdown.

New South Wales (NSW) state reported 1,029 new locally acquired cases, exceeding the previous record of 919 a day earlier.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/terror-threat-at-kabul-airport-say-us-and-allies-amid-evacuation-408392">Also read |&nbsp;'Terror threat' at Kabul airport, say US and allies amid evacuation</a>

Of the new cases, 969 were detected in greater Sydney, up from 838.

State Premier Gladys Berejiklian said that the authorities had quadrupled the number of the state's intensive care ventilators to 2,000 early last year.&nbsp;

Although the system is "under pressure", it can withstand the current crisis once vaccination rates rise, she said.

"It might be different to the help you got before because of the situation, but please know the system is kicking in," Berejiklian said at a televised media conference.

Australia's new daily cases of COVID-19 topped 1,000 for the first time since the pandemic began. Two major hospitals in Sydney have set up emergency outdoor tents to help deal with a rise in patients.

Australia's new daily cases of COVID-19 topped 1,000 for the first time since the pandemic began. Two major hospitals in Sydney have set up emergency outdoor tents to help deal with a rise in patients. The city is struggling to stamp out a surge in the fast-spreading Delta variant as daily infections are hitting record levels even after two months under lockdown. New South Wales (NSW) state reported 1,029 new locally acquired cases, exceeding the previous record of 919 a day earlier. Also read | 'Terror threat' at Kabul airport, say US and allies amid evacuation Of the new cases, 969 were detected in greater Sydney, up from 838. State Premier Gladys Berejiklian said that the authorities had quadrupled the number of the state's intensive care ventilators to 2,000 early last year. Although the system is "under pressure", it can withstand the current crisis once vaccination rates rise, she said. "It might be different to the help you got before because of the situation, but please know the system is kicking in," Berejiklian said at a televised media conference.

Australia sees a record high in COVID-19 cases

Western nations warned their citizens on August 26 to immediately leave the surrounds of Kabul airport over a terrorist threat, as thousands of people try to reach a dwindling number of evacuation flights.

Western Nations warn of terror attack at Kabul airport

Australia is currently battling its worst COVID-19 outbreak. The government's pandemic modeling adviser has said that the country can proceed with reopening plans when it reaches 70 to 80 percent vaccination levels.

Australia sets targets to reopen after lockdown, PM says COVID-19 lockdowns unsustainable

In a heartwarming video, two motorists were seen guiding a black swan and her cygnet across a busy freeway in Perth, Australia. The swans were stuck inside the Kwinana Freeway on Narrows Bridge.

Two motorists guide a black swan and her cygnet across a busy freeway in Australia's Perth

Australia is facing double trouble. While coronavirus cases continue to rise, Australians it seems are angry over strict lockdown restrictions.

COVID-19: Anti-lockdown protests rock Australia

While nations across the world are rushing to bring back their citizens from Afghanistan, Australia has apparently rejected more than 100 visas.

As per several reports, more than 100 former Australian embassy employees have been rejected visas to Australia. This came as a shock for these former embassy employees who were hoping to leave Afghanistan as soon as possible and had pinned their hopes on Australia.

"Australia’s Minister for Foreign Affairs has considered your application. Unfortunately, you are not eligible for certification under this policy," the letter from Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade reads.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/at-least-seven-afghans-killed-in-chaos-near-kabul-airport-amid-evacuation-407591">At least seven Afghans killed in chaos near Kabul airport amid evacuation</a>

However,&nbsp;the country is offering 3,000 humanitarian visas for those stuck in the country, especially minorities, women, children and those who have links to Australia.

Authorities are urging visa applicants to carefully assess their situation and see if they can qualify under the humanitarian visas.

Several security guards and full-time maintenance staff of the Australian embassy in Kabul have claimed that they were told their services — many of whom have worked for more than a decade — were not enough to make them eligible for evacuation flights.

"Unfortunately the Australian government turned its back and left behind those 196 people with their families who have worked in different sections at the Australian embassy Kabul,&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;for the past two decades,"&nbsp;a guard told Guardian Australia on condition of anonymity.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/kabul-india-evacuates-20-afghan-sikhs-2-sikh-mps-407553">WATCH |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/kabul-india-evacuates-20-afghan-sikhs-2-sikh-mps-407553/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"They worked up to the last moments that Australian embassy closed and evacuated its office. They [have] proven themselves with their services and we do not deserve this, to be left behind in [a] bad security situation which is going on everywhere nowadays in Afghanistan."

The Australian Embassy in Kabul was abruptly closed in May as the officials calculated that they could not guarantee the security of their employees at that time.

While the federal government of Australia claims that former employees can apply for a humanitarian visa but should meet the standard requirements regarding health, character and security, the security guard who applied for the visa disagrees with this claim. He argued that even though he had met the set criteria, his visa request was granted.

While nations across the world are rushing to bring back their citizens from Afghanistan, Australia has apparently rejected more than 100 visas. As per several reports, more than 100 former Australian embassy employees have been rejected visas to Australia.

While nations across the world are rushing to bring back their citizens from Afghanistan, Australia has apparently rejected more than 100 visas. As per several reports, more than 100 former Australian embassy employees have been rejected visas to Australia. This came as a shock for these former embassy employees who were hoping to leave Afghanistan as soon as possible and had pinned their hopes on Australia. "Australia’s Minister for Foreign Affairs has considered your application. Unfortunately, you are not eligible for certification under this policy," the letter from Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade reads. Also read | At least seven Afghans killed in chaos near Kabul airport amid evacuation However, the country is offering 3,000 humanitarian visas for those stuck in the country, especially minorities, women, children and those who have links to Australia. Authorities are urging visa applicants to carefully assess their situation and see if they can qualify under the humanitarian visas. Several security guards and full-time maintenance staff of the Australian embassy in Kabul have claimed that they were told their services — many of whom have worked for more than a decade — were not enough to make them eligible for evacuation flights. "Unfortunately the Australian government turned its back and left behind those 196 people with their families who have worked in different sections at the Australian embassy Kabul, Afghanistan for the past two decades," a guard told Guardian Australia on condition of anonymity. WATCH | "They worked up to the last moments that Australian embassy closed and evacuated its office. They [have] proven themselves with their services and we do not deserve this, to be left behind in [a] bad security situation which is going on everywhere nowadays in Afghanistan." The Australian Embassy in Kabul was abruptly closed in May as the officials calculated that they could not guarantee the security of their employees at that time. While the federal government of Australia claims that former employees can apply for a humanitarian visa but should meet the standard requirements regarding health, character and security, the security guard who applied for the visa disagrees with this claim. He argued that even though he had met the set criteria, his visa request was granted.

Australia rejects more than 100 visas of former embassy employees

Australian police patrolled the streets and blocked transport into the centre of&nbsp;Sydney&nbsp;on Saturday to prevent a planned anti-lockdown protest as the country reported a record high daily number of new COVID-19 infections.

Officials reported a total of 886 cases in New South Wales and Victoria states, with the vast bulk in&nbsp;Sydney, which is the epicentre of the Delta variant-fuelled outbreak.

With other states and territories still to report daily numbers, new infections have already exceeded the previous single-day high for the pandemic of 754 cases on Thursday.

"We are in a very serious situation here in New South Wales," state Health Minister Brad Hazzard said. "There is no time now to be selfish, it's time to think of the broader community and your families."

Sydney, a city of more than 5 million people, has been in a strict lockdown&nbsp;for weeks now, failing so far to contain an outbreak that has spread across internal borders and as far as neighbouring New Zealand.

New South Wales officials reported three deaths and 516 people in hospital on Saturday. Of the 85 people in intensive care, 76 were unvaccinated, officials said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/experts-look-at-toxic-algae-after-california-family-is-found-dead-on-hiking-trail-407267">Also read |&nbsp;Experts look at toxic algae after California family is found dead on hiking trail</a>

At least 96 people were active in community during their infectious period, and there were a number of breaches of public health orders, all slowing the efforts to curtail the outbreak.

More than 1,500 police officers were deployed on&nbsp;Sydney's streets on Saturday, trains were ordered to bypass major city stations and rideshares were banned to the city centre as police tried to prevent an unauthorised anti-lockdown protest.

Australian media reported that a similar protest was planned in Melbourne, with Victoria Premier Daniel Andrews on Saturday expanding a lockdown in that city to entire state as he reported 61 new locally acquired cases&nbsp;

At least 39 of the new Victoria cases were active in community while infectious, raising concerns over officials' ability to gain control over the outbreak. Eighteen people were in hospital, eight in intensive care and six on ventilators.

Australia's COVID-19 numbers are still relatively low compared to other developed countries, with just over 43,000 cases and 978 deaths, but the latest outbreak has seen a significant resurgence in cases.

Australian police patrolled the streets and blocked transport into the centre of Sydney on Saturday to prevent a planned anti-lockdown protest as the country reported a record high daily number of new COVID-19 infections.

Australian police patrolled the streets and blocked transport into the centre of Sydney on Saturday to prevent a planned anti-lockdown protest as the country reported a record high daily number of new COVID-19 infections. Officials reported a total of 886 cases in New South Wales and Victoria states, with the vast bulk in Sydney, which is the epicentre of the Delta variant-fuelled outbreak. With other states and territories still to report daily numbers, new infections have already exceeded the previous single-day high for the pandemic of 754 cases on Thursday. "We are in a very serious situation here in New South Wales," state Health Minister Brad Hazzard said. "There is no time now to be selfish, it's time to think of the broader community and your families." Sydney, a city of more than 5 million people, has been in a strict lockdown for weeks now, failing so far to contain an outbreak that has spread across internal borders and as far as neighbouring New Zealand. New South Wales officials reported three deaths and 516 people in hospital on Saturday. Of the 85 people in intensive care, 76 were unvaccinated, officials said. Also read | Experts look at toxic algae after California family is found dead on hiking trail At least 96 people were active in community during their infectious period, and there were a number of breaches of public health orders, all slowing the efforts to curtail the outbreak. More than 1,500 police officers were deployed on Sydney's streets on Saturday, trains were ordered to bypass major city stations and rideshares were banned to the city centre as police tried to prevent an unauthorised anti-lockdown protest. Australian media reported that a similar protest was planned in Melbourne, with Victoria Premier Daniel Andrews on Saturday expanding a lockdown in that city to entire state as he reported 61 new locally acquired cases At least 39 of the new Victoria cases were active in community while infectious, raising concerns over officials' ability to gain control over the outbreak. Eighteen people were in hospital, eight in intensive care and six on ventilators. Australia's COVID-19 numbers are still relatively low compared to other developed countries, with just over 43,000 cases and 978 deaths, but the latest outbreak has seen a significant resurgence in cases.

Australia reports record COVID-19 cases as police block Sydney protest

Sydney&nbsp;extended its two-month-old&nbsp;lockdown&nbsp;for another month and introduced a&nbsp;partial&nbsp;curfew&nbsp;Friday, as Australia's largest city struggled to contain a fast-spreading coronavirus outbreak.&nbsp;

New South Wales premier Gladys Berejiklian announced the "difficult" decision, telling the city's population of five million it was time to "bunker down".&nbsp;

"Unfortunately the case numbers continue to grow," she said. "This is what life will look like for most of us until the end of September."

For much of the pandemic,&nbsp;Sydney&nbsp;saw very few virus cases.&nbsp;

But the city is now reporting more than 600 cases each day, straining contact tracing efforts,&nbsp;and that number shows little sign of shrinking.&nbsp;

Stay-at-home orders will now remain in place across the city until the end of September and residents in virus hotspots will also be subject to a nighttime&nbsp;curfew&nbsp;and limited to one hour of outdoor exercise a day.

Around 1,000 defence force personnel are helping police implement restrictions, as weary residents increasingly bend the rules.&nbsp;

With the number of deaths rising steadily and the virus spreading to regional areas, Australia is racing to get jabs in arms.

Just 30 percent of the population is currently fully vaccinated.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-says-49-ebola-contact-cases-identified-in-ivory-coast-406976">Also read |&nbsp;WHO says 49 Ebola contact cases identified in Ivory Coast</a>

Meanwhile, there are growing concerns about vulnerable Aboriginal communities in the New South Wales Outback, where the virus is now spreading.

The entire population of Wilcannia, a small dusty town ringed by several ancient Aboriginal sites -- have been asked to get tested after a funeral was identified as a potential super-spreader event.

A local health department spokesman told AFP officials were going door-to-door urging locals to get tested for the virus, while a sports field has been converted into a testing site.

Early in the pandemic, Wilcannia residents had put up signs on the town's limits asking travellers not to stop — fearing the virus could obliterate an already vulnerable community.&nbsp;

New South Wales authorities are also facing growing anger from other Australian states, where the virus cases linked to the&nbsp;Sydney&nbsp;outbreak have emerged.

Sydney extended its two-month-old lockdown for another month and introduced a partial curfew Friday, as Australia's largest city struggled to contain a fast-spreading coronavirus outbreak.

Sydney extended its two-month-old lockdown for another month and introduced a partial curfew Friday, as Australia's largest city struggled to contain a fast-spreading coronavirus outbreak. New South Wales premier Gladys Berejiklian announced the "difficult" decision, telling the city's population of five million it was time to "bunker down". "Unfortunately the case numbers continue to grow," she said. "This is what life will look like for most of us until the end of September." For much of the pandemic, Sydney saw very few virus cases. But the city is now reporting more than 600 cases each day, straining contact tracing efforts, and that number shows little sign of shrinking. Stay-at-home orders will now remain in place across the city until the end of September and residents in virus hotspots will also be subject to a nighttime curfew and limited to one hour of outdoor exercise a day. Around 1,000 defence force personnel are helping police implement restrictions, as weary residents increasingly bend the rules. With the number of deaths rising steadily and the virus spreading to regional areas, Australia is racing to get jabs in arms. Just 30 percent of the population is currently fully vaccinated. Also read | WHO says 49 Ebola contact cases identified in Ivory Coast Meanwhile, there are growing concerns about vulnerable Aboriginal communities in the New South Wales Outback, where the virus is now spreading. The entire population of Wilcannia, a small dusty town ringed by several ancient Aboriginal sites -- have been asked to get tested after a funeral was identified as a potential super-spreader event. A local health department spokesman told AFP officials were going door-to-door urging locals to get tested for the virus, while a sports field has been converted into a testing site. Early in the pandemic, Wilcannia residents had put up signs on the town's limits asking travellers not to stop — fearing the virus could obliterate an already vulnerable community. New South Wales authorities are also facing growing anger from other Australian states, where the virus cases linked to the Sydney outbreak have emerged.

Sydney extends lockdown, imposes partial curfew

Justin Langer's role as the head coach of the Australian cricket team has come under scanner after his side suffered consecutive defeats in the T20 series. The Aussies were thrashed 4-1 by the West Indies and 4-1 in Bangladesh, raising concerns ahead of ICC T20 World Cup that will kick off later this year.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-virat-kohlis-way-is-to-get-very-abusive-says-a-former-england-batsman-407058" hreflang="en">Cricket - 'Virat Kohli’s way is to get very abusive', says a former England batsman</a>

However, Australian Test captain Tim Paine has backed Langer as the coach of the team. Paine said he and other senior players had cleared the air with Langer and that the coach was not to blame for the team's recent setbacks in the West Indies and Bangladesh.

"It was important that myself, Aaron Finch, Pat Cummins and the leaders of Australian cricket got around him, discussed things that needed to be discussed and then got around him and supported him to move forward," Paine said on radio station SEN Hobart on Friday.

"The last few days we've really been able to galvanise around him, to have some really robust discussions on where we want to take this cricket team, what we expect of him and what he expects of us."

This week, Cricket Australia chief Nick Hockley said that Langer was contracted through to mid-2022 and praised him for helping rally the team when he took over in the wake of the Newlands ball-tampering scandal in 2018.

"It’s been a bit of a shame the last week that a lot of the failings around Australian cricket have been pinned on JL (Langer)," added Paine.

"That’s certainly not the case. We haven’t lived up to our own standards on the field."

Justin Langer's role as the head coach of the Australian cricket team has come under scanner after his side suffered consecutive defeats in the T20 series. The Aussies were thrashed 4-1 by the West Indies and 4-1 in Bangladesh, raising concerns ahead of ICC T20 World Cup that will kick off later this year.

Justin Langer's role as the head coach of the Australian cricket team has come under scanner after his side suffered consecutive defeats in the T20 series. The Aussies were thrashed 4-1 by the West Indies and 4-1 in Bangladesh, raising concerns ahead of ICC T20 World Cup that will kick off later this year. ALSO READ: Cricket - 'Virat Kohli’s way is to get very abusive', says a former England batsman However, Australian Test captain Tim Paine has backed Langer as the coach of the team. Paine said he and other senior players had cleared the air with Langer and that the coach was not to blame for the team's recent setbacks in the West Indies and Bangladesh. "It was important that myself, Aaron Finch, Pat Cummins and the leaders of Australian cricket got around him, discussed things that needed to be discussed and then got around him and supported him to move forward," Paine said on radio station SEN Hobart on Friday. "The last few days we've really been able to galvanise around him, to have some really robust discussions on where we want to take this cricket team, what we expect of him and what he expects of us." This week, Cricket Australia chief Nick Hockley said that Langer was contracted through to mid-2022 and praised him for helping rally the team when he took over in the wake of the Newlands ball-tampering scandal in 2018. "It’s been a bit of a shame the last week that a lot of the failings around Australian cricket have been pinned on JL (Langer)," added Paine. "That’s certainly not the case. We haven’t lived up to our own standards on the field."

'It’s been a bit of a shame': Tim Paine backs Justin Langer as coach of Australian cricket team

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday (August 17) announced the schedule of the Men's T20 World Cup 2021 as the high-octane event will get underway from 17 October. The final clash will be in Dubai on November 14 and a reserve day is also kept aside on November 15.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-coach-grumpy-justin-langers-leadership-under-spotlight-406529" hreflang="en">Cricket - 'Coach Grumpy': Justin Langer's leadership under spotlight</a>

Cricket Australia has now announced its squad and all their first-choice players who missed the recent tours of West Indies and Bangladesh will be returning for the coveted tournament.&nbsp;

The team will be led by Aaron Finch, who is currrently recovering after knee surgery. Aussie wicketkeeper Josh Inglis also earned his maiden call-up.&nbsp;

Inglis performed prolifically in the Vitality Blast. "Josh has been on our radar for some time with his performances in white ball cricket and more recently in the Vitality Blast where he topped the run charts," chairman of selectors George Bailey said. "He offers the squad flexibility in the batting order with his adaptability, counterattacking ability and power striking. He is a player we are excited about for the future."

Inglis scored 531 runs at an average of 48.27 in the Vitality Blast for Leicestershire. He scored two centuries in the tournament.

Cricketing stars like Steve Smith, David Warner will also be a part of the team.&nbsp;

<h2>Squad</h2>

Aaron Finch (capt), David Warner, Steve Smith, Glenn Maxwell, Mitchell Marsh, Matthew Wade, Ashton Agar, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Kane Richardson, Adam Zampa, Josh Hazlewood, Marcus Stoinis, Mitchell Swepson, Josh Inglis 
Travelling reserves: Dan Christian, Nathan Ellis, Daniel Sams

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday (August 17) announced the schedule of the Men's T20 World Cup 2021 as the high-octane event will get underway from 17 October.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday (August 17) announced the schedule of the Men's T20 World Cup 2021 as the high-octane event will get underway from 17 October. The final clash will be in Dubai on November 14 and a reserve day is also kept aside on November 15. ALSO READ: Cricket - 'Coach Grumpy': Justin Langer's leadership under spotlight Cricket Australia has now announced its squad and all their first-choice players who missed the recent tours of West Indies and Bangladesh will be returning for the coveted tournament. The team will be led by Aaron Finch, who is currrently recovering after knee surgery. Aussie wicketkeeper Josh Inglis also earned his maiden call-up. Inglis performed prolifically in the Vitality Blast. "Josh has been on our radar for some time with his performances in white ball cricket and more recently in the Vitality Blast where he topped the run charts," chairman of selectors George Bailey said. "He offers the squad flexibility in the batting order with his adaptability, counterattacking ability and power striking. He is a player we are excited about for the future." Inglis scored 531 runs at an average of 48.27 in the Vitality Blast for Leicestershire. He scored two centuries in the tournament. Cricketing stars like Steve Smith, David Warner will also be a part of the team. Squad Aaron Finch (capt), David Warner, Steve Smith, Glenn Maxwell, Mitchell Marsh, Matthew Wade, Ashton Agar, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Kane Richardson, Adam Zampa, Josh Hazlewood, Marcus Stoinis, Mitchell Swepson, Josh Inglis Travelling reserves: Dan Christian, Nathan Ellis, Daniel Sams

Cricket - Cricket Australia announce their squad for ICC T20 World Cup

Australia cricket coach Justin Langer was under mounting pressure Wednesday over his management style, sparking uncertainty around his position heading into the Twenty20 World Cup and an Ashes series.

Langer was forced to address negative feedback earlier this year when discontent surfaced about his "headmaster-like" leadership and shifting moods.

He took the criticism on board and admitted he had been "grumpy and intense" most of his life.

Langer faced controversy again last week after reports of a heated argument with a Cricket Australia journalist after a poor white-ball tour of the West Indies and Bangladesh.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-england-sachin-tendulkar-responds-to-virat-kohlis-poor-form-406490">India vs England: Sachin Tendulkar responds to Virat Kohli's poor form</a>

The confrontation is said to have taken place in the team hotel, with players and staff watching.

Langer's friend and former teammate&nbsp;Adam Gilchrist&nbsp;said growing speculation around his position could "derail the summer", and urged Cricket Australia to stamp out leaks to the media.

"Justin is very aware of these perceived issues with his management style, and he's going to keep trying to work with that, and I'm sure the players will try to work alongside that as well," Gilchrist said this week.

"But the bigger issue, and it will derail the summer if it doesn't get sorted out, is the fact these journalists have a direct line of contact with people within the inner sanctum there, and the people in that inner sanctum are happy to let it get out.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/from-sourav-ganguly-to-sachin-tendulkar-former-indian-cricketers-laud-virat-led-team-after-fantastic-lords-win-406220">From Sourav Ganguly to Sachin Tendulkar: Former Indian cricketers laud Virat-led team after 'fantastic' Lord's win</a>

"So Cricket Australia needs to try to address this very quickly.&nbsp;

"If everyone believes the best thing to do is move on from Justin Langer as a coach, do it sooner rather than later because it is just going to create a side issue, which is going to continue to be a circus," he added.

Cricket Australia did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

- 'Hair trigger' -

Langer was hired in the wake of the notorious "Sandpaper-gate" ball-tampering tour of South Africa in 2019, which led to then-captain Steve Smith and his deputy David Warner being suspended for a year.

The coach was tasked with rebuilding the culture of Australian cricket and was widely praised for doing so, but there have been rumours of dressing-room friction.

Malcolm Conn, who was media manager for the Australian team during their 2019 Ashes tour of England, said he respected Langer but quickly learned to stay out of his way.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;INDvsENG:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indvseng-netizens-says-dont-mess-with-team-india-on-bumrah-buttler-argument-virats-reaction-goes-viral-watch-406209">Netizens says 'don't mess with team India' on Bumrah-Buttler argument; Virat's reaction goes viral - watch</a>

"You were never certain whether your question was going to be met with an answer or an explosion," he wrote in an opinion piece for the Sydney Morning Herald on Wednesday.

Conn detailed players walking on eggshells around Langer and his "sudden obsession with things that...didn't seem to matter".

"Like many of these minor incidents, Langer's latest blow-up at a Cricket Australia digital journalist during the recent tour of Bangladesh is nothing in isolation, but contributes to a pattern of erratic behaviour," he added.

Peter Lalor, chief cricket writer for The Australian broadsheet, said Langer doesn't deserve to have his reputation tarnished over a relatively minor incident.

"But the attention the event gained and the uncertainty it has caused suggests things are on something of a hair trigger," he added.

Australia cricket coach Justin Langer was under mounting pressure Wednesday over his management style, sparking uncertainty around his position heading into the Twenty20 World Cup and an Ashes series.

Australia cricket coach Justin Langer was under mounting pressure Wednesday over his management style, sparking uncertainty around his position heading into the Twenty20 World Cup and an Ashes series. Langer was forced to address negative feedback earlier this year when discontent surfaced about his "headmaster-like" leadership and shifting moods. He took the criticism on board and admitted he had been "grumpy and intense" most of his life. Langer faced controversy again last week after reports of a heated argument with a Cricket Australia journalist after a poor white-ball tour of the West Indies and Bangladesh. ALSO READ | India vs England: Sachin Tendulkar responds to Virat Kohli's poor form The confrontation is said to have taken place in the team hotel, with players and staff watching. Langer's friend and former teammate Adam Gilchrist said growing speculation around his position could "derail the summer", and urged Cricket Australia to stamp out leaks to the media. "Justin is very aware of these perceived issues with his management style, and he's going to keep trying to work with that, and I'm sure the players will try to work alongside that as well," Gilchrist said this week. "But the bigger issue, and it will derail the summer if it doesn't get sorted out, is the fact these journalists have a direct line of contact with people within the inner sanctum there, and the people in that inner sanctum are happy to let it get out. ALSO READ | From Sourav Ganguly to Sachin Tendulkar: Former Indian cricketers laud Virat-led team after 'fantastic' Lord's win "So Cricket Australia needs to try to address this very quickly. "If everyone believes the best thing to do is move on from Justin Langer as a coach, do it sooner rather than later because it is just going to create a side issue, which is going to continue to be a circus," he added. Cricket Australia did not immediately respond to a request for comment. - 'Hair trigger' - Langer was hired in the wake of the notorious "Sandpaper-gate" ball-tampering tour of South Africa in 2019, which led to then-captain Steve Smith and his deputy David Warner being suspended for a year. The coach was tasked with rebuilding the culture of Australian cricket and was widely praised for doing so, but there have been rumours of dressing-room friction. Malcolm Conn, who was media manager for the Australian team during their 2019 Ashes tour of England, said he respected Langer but quickly learned to stay out of his way. ALSO READ | INDvsENG: Netizens says 'don't mess with team India' on Bumrah-Buttler argument; Virat's reaction goes viral - watch "You were never certain whether your question was going to be met with an answer or an explosion," he wrote in an opinion piece for the Sydney Morning Herald on Wednesday. Conn detailed players walking on eggshells around Langer and his "sudden obsession with things that...didn't seem to matter". "Like many of these minor incidents, Langer's latest blow-up at a Cricket Australia digital journalist during the recent tour of Bangladesh is nothing in isolation, but contributes to a pattern of erratic behaviour," he added. Peter Lalor, chief cricket writer for The Australian broadsheet, said Langer doesn't deserve to have his reputation tarnished over a relatively minor incident. "But the attention the event gained and the uncertainty it has caused suggests things are on something of a hair trigger," he added.

Cricket - 'Coach Grumpy': Justin Langer's leadership under spotlight

Australia has said that it will not be able to help all Afghans that assisted its military. Australia becomes a second country after the United Kingdom to admit to this possibility.

Australia & UK admit to being unable to evacuate all Afghan helpers

A fossil, originally found in outback Queensland almost ten years ago, has been revealed by researchers to be the largest kind of pterosaur ever found in Australia.

Researchers uncover Australia's largest flying reptile

Coronavirus curfew was announced on Monday in Melbourne, Australia's second-largest city. Residents would now confined to their homes overnight. The measure was taken as a part of authorities' efforts to stamp out Delta variant ourbreak.&nbsp;

On Monday evening, more than five million residents would not be able to leave their homes between 9 pm and 5 am. Essential workers would be required to get special permits to be on the streets.

Victoria state premier Dan Andrews said the decision came after a series of street parties, pub crawls and home gatherings over the weekend, as Melbourne reached a "tipping point" in its latest outbreak.

"We've seen lots of different people flouting these rules, not doing as they should, making really poor choices," he said.

He also announced the restrictions would be extended to September 2. He said it was necessary for Melbourne to avoid a Sydney-like situation.

More than eight million people in New South Wales state are under lockdown -- including in Sydney where residents have already been under those restrictions for almost two months.

Since the outbreak began in mid-June, Australia's most populous state has recorded more than 8200 cases.

A snap lockdown was announced for the northern city of Darwin on Monday, with about 150,000 people told to stop non-essential movements for three days after a man tested positive.

"We have made the decision to lock down fast because of what we do not know," Northern Territory chief minister Michael Gunner said.

"There is a very real risk that this virus has been transmitted to others."

Australia's capital Canberra will also remain in lockdown until September 2 as health officials grapple with a small but growing outbreak in the city.

Australia won global praise for its early pandemic response but strict border closures and other measures have struggled to contain the highly transmissible Delta variant.

(With inputs from agencies)

Coronavirus curfew was announced on Monday in Melbourne, Australia's second-largest city. Residents would now confined to their homes overnight. The measure was taken as a part of authorities' efforts to stamp out Delta variant ourbreak.

Coronavirus curfew was announced on Monday in Melbourne, Australia's second-largest city. Residents would now confined to their homes overnight. The measure was taken as a part of authorities' efforts to stamp out Delta variant ourbreak. On Monday evening, more than five million residents would not be able to leave their homes between 9 pm and 5 am. Essential workers would be required to get special permits to be on the streets. Victoria state premier Dan Andrews said the decision came after a series of street parties, pub crawls and home gatherings over the weekend, as Melbourne reached a "tipping point" in its latest outbreak. "We've seen lots of different people flouting these rules, not doing as they should, making really poor choices," he said. He also announced the restrictions would be extended to September 2. He said it was necessary for Melbourne to avoid a Sydney-like situation. More than eight million people in New South Wales state are under lockdown -- including in Sydney where residents have already been under those restrictions for almost two months. Since the outbreak began in mid-June, Australia's most populous state has recorded more than 8200 cases. A snap lockdown was announced for the northern city of Darwin on Monday, with about 150,000 people told to stop non-essential movements for three days after a man tested positive. "We have made the decision to lock down fast because of what we do not know," Northern Territory chief minister Michael Gunner said. "There is a very real risk that this virus has been transmitted to others." Australia's capital Canberra will also remain in lockdown until September 2 as health officials grapple with a small but growing outbreak in the city. Australia won global praise for its early pandemic response but strict border closures and other measures have struggled to contain the highly transmissible Delta variant. (With inputs from agencies)

Australia: Coronavirus curfew announced in Melbourne

New&nbsp;South&nbsp;Wales&nbsp;reported a&nbsp;record&nbsp;466&nbsp;new&nbsp;locally acquired&nbsp;cases&nbsp;of&nbsp;COVID-19&nbsp;on Saturday, officials said as&nbsp;Australia's&nbsp;most populous state remained in tight lockdown.

"This is the largest jump we have seen in a night," state Premier Gladys Berejiklian told reporters in Sydney. "It's fair to say that we are extremely concerned about the situation that we're in, in&nbsp;New&nbsp;South&nbsp;Wales."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/businesses-in-portland-oregon-close-early-amid-scorching-heat-405201">Also read |&nbsp;Businesses in Portland, Oregon, close early amid scorching heat</a>

Officials warned the state's infections could surge further in coming days as they reported four more people had died, taking the number of deaths in the latest outbreak in the state to 42.

Of the&nbsp;new&nbsp;cases, at least 60 are people who spent time in the community while infectious, Berejiklian said.

New South Wales reported a record 466 new locally acquired cases of COVID-19 on Saturday, officials said as Australia's most populous state remained in tight lockdown.

New South Wales reported a record 466 new locally acquired cases of COVID-19 on Saturday, officials said as Australia's most populous state remained in tight lockdown. "This is the largest jump we have seen in a night," state Premier Gladys Berejiklian told reporters in Sydney. "It's fair to say that we are extremely concerned about the situation that we're in, in New South Wales." Also read | Businesses in Portland, Oregon, close early amid scorching heat Officials warned the state's infections could surge further in coming days as they reported four more people had died, taking the number of deaths in the latest outbreak in the state to 42. Of the new cases, at least 60 are people who spent time in the community while infectious, Berejiklian said.

Australia's New South Wales reports record spike in COVID-19 cases to 466

Australia's capital Melbourne is under a state of lockdown for a period of a week after a single case of COVID-19 infection was detected.

Australia: Melbourne to remain in lockdown until August 19

Australian marine rescuers worked to free a whale tangled in shark nets off Queensland's Gold Coast on Wednesday (August 11) after local surfers tried to cut the trapped humpback out of the netting.

Australian rescuers work to free whale tangled in shark nets off Queensland's Gold Coast

Australia's coveted status of being almost pandemic-free has now been taken away as the contagious delta variant outbreak forces nation's major states to go under lockdown. The country's most populous states. New South Wales, Victoria and Queensland reported 282 covid-19 new locally acquired infections on Sunday.

Australia: Authorities struggle to contain COVID-19

Shakib Al Hasan took four wickets as Bangladesh skittled out Australia for their lowest ever Twenty20 total of 62 to seal the series 4-1 on Monday.

Chasing 123 for victory, the visitors crashed out in 13.4 overs with Shakib returning figures of 4-9 with his left-arm spin in the 60-run rout in Dhaka.

Australia's previous lowest was 79 all out against England in 2005.

Bangladesh, who had secured their first series win over Australia after winning the opening three matches, bounced back from their previous loss to flatten the opposition batting.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/did-you-know-three-cricketers-represented-both-india-and-pakistan-in-international-test-matches-404294">Did you know? Three cricketers represented both India and Pakistan in international Test matches</a>

"The boys showed a lot of character and hunger to win a series against a team like Australia," home skipper Mahmudullah Riyad said after the triumph.

"We executed our plans really well. Obviously it was hard for the batters, but we did well to keep getting 120-130. All the bowlers worked really well together."

He said, "We always felt that in our backyard we are a very good team. We can't let anything go past.

"Though the ranking doesn't show it, I have always felt we have very good potential to be a very good team in T20 internationals."

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-rahul-dravid-teaches-cricket-expressions-in-kannada-to-british-high-commissioner-to-india-404147">Watch: Rahul Dravid teaches 'cricket expressions' in Kannada to British High Commissioner to India</a>

Pace bowler Mohammad Saifuddin combined with Shakib to rattle Australia with twin strikes in one over and send back Alex Carey and Moises Henriques, both for three.

Shakib, who got Ashton Turner out for his 100th T20 scalp, wiped off the tail with the wickets of Nathan Ellis and Adam Zampa as Bangladesh celebrated.

The 34-year-old Shakib, a veteran of 58 Tests, 258 one-day matches and 84 T20s, said he is "still enjoying the game".

Spinner Nasum Ahmed had done the early damage when he bowled Dan Christian for three and then trapped the in-form Mitchell Marsh for four in successive overs.

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Bangladesh win the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BANvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BANvAUS</a> T20I series 4-1! 
 
Shakib Al Hasan-led attack bowled Australia out for 62, guiding their side to a 60-run win 🙌 
 
Scorecard: <a href="https://t.co/ap9nHpzYec">https://t.co/ap9nHpzYec</a> <a href="https://t.co/7WyjAmgiOv">pic.twitter.com/7WyjAmgiOv</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1424748804578979849?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Skipper Matthew Wade (22) and Ben McDermott fought back with a 21-run stand for the third wicket but Mahmudullah broke the partnership. He got McDermott caught and bowled for 17.

"I've played for a few years now, certainly the toughest conditions to play T20 cricket in," said a disappointed Wade. "Great learning for youngsters."

Earlier Mohammad Naim made 23 in Bangladesh's 122 for eight after electing to bat.

Christian, who took an international scalp after seven years, and Nathan Ellis took two wickets each

Shakib Al Hasan took four wickets as Bangladesh skittled out Australia for their lowest ever Twenty20 total of 62 to seal the series 4-1 on Monday. Chasing 123 for victory, the visitors crashed out in 13.

Shakib Al Hasan took four wickets as Bangladesh skittled out Australia for their lowest ever Twenty20 total of 62 to seal the series 4-1 on Monday. Chasing 123 for victory, the visitors crashed out in 13.4 overs with Shakib returning figures of 4-9 with his left-arm spin in the 60-run rout in Dhaka. Australia's previous lowest was 79 all out against England in 2005. Bangladesh, who had secured their first series win over Australia after winning the opening three matches, bounced back from their previous loss to flatten the opposition batting. ALSO READ | Did you know? Three cricketers represented both India and Pakistan in international Test matches "The boys showed a lot of character and hunger to win a series against a team like Australia," home skipper Mahmudullah Riyad said after the triumph. "We executed our plans really well. Obviously it was hard for the batters, but we did well to keep getting 120-130. All the bowlers worked really well together." He said, "We always felt that in our backyard we are a very good team. We can't let anything go past. "Though the ranking doesn't show it, I have always felt we have very good potential to be a very good team in T20 internationals." ALSO READ | Watch: Rahul Dravid teaches 'cricket expressions' in Kannada to British High Commissioner to India Pace bowler Mohammad Saifuddin combined with Shakib to rattle Australia with twin strikes in one over and send back Alex Carey and Moises Henriques, both for three. Shakib, who got Ashton Turner out for his 100th T20 scalp, wiped off the tail with the wickets of Nathan Ellis and Adam Zampa as Bangladesh celebrated. The 34-year-old Shakib, a veteran of 58 Tests, 258 one-day matches and 84 T20s, said he is "still enjoying the game". Spinner Nasum Ahmed had done the early damage when he bowled Dan Christian for three and then trapped the in-form Mitchell Marsh for four in successive overs. Bangladesh win the #BANvAUS T20I series 4-1! Shakib Al Hasan-led attack bowled Australia out for 62, guiding their side to a 60-run win 🙌 Scorecard: https://t.co/ap9nHpzYec pic.twitter.com/7WyjAmgiOv — ICC (@ICC) August 9, 2021 × Skipper Matthew Wade (22) and Ben McDermott fought back with a 21-run stand for the third wicket but Mahmudullah broke the partnership. He got McDermott caught and bowled for 17. "I've played for a few years now, certainly the toughest conditions to play T20 cricket in," said a disappointed Wade. "Great learning for youngsters." Earlier Mohammad Naim made 23 in Bangladesh's 122 for eight after electing to bat. Christian, who took an international scalp after seven years, and Nathan Ellis took two wickets each

Cricket: Shakib stars as Bangladesh skittle out Australia for 62 in T20 series triumph

Australia's Chef de Mission Ian Chesterman hailed his team's record-equalling performance at the Tokyo&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;on Sunday, wiping tears from his eyes as he spoke of its impact on people back home - a nation largely in COVID-19 lockdown.

The Australian team had won 17 gold medals heading into the final day of action in Tokyo, matching their previous best haul from the 2004 Athens&nbsp;Olympics.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympics-climate-change-played-spoilsport-at-tokyo-literally-will-paris-be-worse-403847" hreflang="en">Olympics: Climate change played spoilsport at Tokyo, literally. Will Paris be worse?</a>

Chesterman said the unique circumstances of the first&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;held during a global pandemic would make their achievements even more memorable.

"I believe Australia will remember this team for decades to come," he told a news conference.

"They've made a real connection with people back home. It's been such a tough time in so many communities and the athletes have been so conscious of that over here.

"Their performances and the way they've conducted themselves on and off the field has been superb. The Australians have taken these athletes to their hearts."

After disappointing medal hauls at London 2012 and Rio 2016, Australia kick-started their Tokyo campaign in swimming.

They won a record nine golds and 20 medals overall in the pool with Emma McKeon becoming the first woman swimmer to win seven medals in a single Games.

More gold medals followed in canoeing, kayaking, sailing, and rowing, while Keegan Palmer won&nbsp;the nation's first Olympic title in skateboarding.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-athletics-kenyas-eliud-kipchoge-cements-legacy-with-back-to-back-marathon-golds-403823" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics athletics: Kenya's Eliud Kipchoge cements legacy with back-to-back marathon golds</a>

After thanking host nation Japan for pulling off the "impossible", Chesterman spoke movingly of what the 486 athletes had endured with the strict health protocols in force in Tokyo.

"It's been a pretty tough Games, I've got to say," he said when asked to explain his emotional state. "And everything we set out to achieve, we did.

He said the team was "very aware" of how the Games had cheered up people in lockdown in Australia.

"We've all got our own families at home, and we've seen the impact this has had on them," Chesterman added.

Brushing aside a question about the misbehavior of some Australian athletes, Chesterman said his priority had been to allow the athletes to fulfill their dreams and then to get them safely back to their families.

"It's a huge relief," he said. "It's a big campaign, it's just important that we get them home, and we will."

Australia's Chef de Mission Ian Chesterman hailed his team's record-equalling performance at the Tokyo Olympics on Sunday, wiping tears from his eyes as he spoke of its impact on people back home - a nation largely in COVID-19 lockdown.

Australia's Chef de Mission Ian Chesterman hailed his team's record-equalling performance at the Tokyo Olympics on Sunday, wiping tears from his eyes as he spoke of its impact on people back home - a nation largely in COVID-19 lockdown. The Australian team had won 17 gold medals heading into the final day of action in Tokyo, matching their previous best haul from the 2004 Athens Olympics. ALSO READ: Olympics: Climate change played spoilsport at Tokyo, literally. Will Paris be worse? Chesterman said the unique circumstances of the first Olympics held during a global pandemic would make their achievements even more memorable. "I believe Australia will remember this team for decades to come," he told a news conference. "They've made a real connection with people back home. It's been such a tough time in so many communities and the athletes have been so conscious of that over here. "Their performances and the way they've conducted themselves on and off the field has been superb. The Australians have taken these athletes to their hearts." After disappointing medal hauls at London 2012 and Rio 2016, Australia kick-started their Tokyo campaign in swimming. They won a record nine golds and 20 medals overall in the pool with Emma McKeon becoming the first woman swimmer to win seven medals in a single Games. More gold medals followed in canoeing, kayaking, sailing, and rowing, while Keegan Palmer won the nation's first Olympic title in skateboarding. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics athletics: Kenya's Eliud Kipchoge cements legacy with back-to-back marathon golds After thanking host nation Japan for pulling off the "impossible", Chesterman spoke movingly of what the 486 athletes had endured with the strict health protocols in force in Tokyo. "It's been a pretty tough Games, I've got to say," he said when asked to explain his emotional state. "And everything we set out to achieve, we did. He said the team was "very aware" of how the Games had cheered up people in lockdown in Australia. "We've all got our own families at home, and we've seen the impact this has had on them," Chesterman added. Brushing aside a question about the misbehavior of some Australian athletes, Chesterman said his priority had been to allow the athletes to fulfill their dreams and then to get them safely back to their families. "It's a huge relief," he said. "It's a big campaign, it's just important that we get them home, and we will."

Olympics 2020: Australia hail Tokyo campaign as balm for pandemic struggles back home

France, India and Australia trilateral is all set to be elevated to leaders' level as President Emmanuel Macron, PM Narendra Modi and PM Scott Morrison meet is being envisaged. The meet is likely to happen on the sidelines of any major multilateral summit. G20 summit in Italy in October could provide an opportunity for the meet.&nbsp;

The development comes almost a year after the group first met at the secretary level. The France, India and Australia trilateral was launched in September 2020 at foreign secretaries' level&nbsp;with three joint priorities, maritime security, environment and multilateralism.&nbsp;

This year's May saw the first foreign ministers meet on the sidelines of the G7 summit in London. Indian External Affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar, French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian and Australian FM Marise Payne met and discussed a number of issues.&nbsp;

The focus of the grouping has been on Indo-Pacific largely. Remember, both France and Australia are part of the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI) announced by India in 2019. In fact, Paris announced that it will join IPOI and take the lead of its 'Maritime Resources' pillar during the French foreign minister's visit to New Delhi in April 2020. The mandate of the trilateral is being expanded. Ahead of the G20 FMs meet in Italy, the trilateral had coordinated amongst themselves on a joint strategy at the forum.&nbsp;

Earlier, this year also saw the grouping having met at the senior officials’ level. The Indian side was led by Joint Secretary (Europe West) in MEA, Sandeep Chakravorty; French by Bertrand Lortholary, Director (Asia and Oceania), and the Australian side was led by Gary Cowan, First Assistant Secretary (North and South Asia Division). An official level meeting is also expected to happen in September.

France, India and Australia trilateral is all set to be elevated to leaders' level as President Emmanuel Macron, PM Narendra Modi and PM Scott Morrison meet is being envisaged.

France, India and Australia trilateral is all set to be elevated to leaders' level as President Emmanuel Macron, PM Narendra Modi and PM Scott Morrison meet is being envisaged. The meet is likely to happen on the sidelines of any major multilateral summit. G20 summit in Italy in October could provide an opportunity for the meet. The development comes almost a year after the group first met at the secretary level. The France, India and Australia trilateral was launched in September 2020 at foreign secretaries' level with three joint priorities, maritime security, environment and multilateralism. This year's May saw the first foreign ministers meet on the sidelines of the G7 summit in London. Indian External Affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar, French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian and Australian FM Marise Payne met and discussed a number of issues. The focus of the grouping has been on Indo-Pacific largely. Remember, both France and Australia are part of the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI) announced by India in 2019. In fact, Paris announced that it will join IPOI and take the lead of its 'Maritime Resources' pillar during the French foreign minister's visit to New Delhi in April 2020. The mandate of the trilateral is being expanded. Ahead of the G20 FMs meet in Italy, the trilateral had coordinated amongst themselves on a joint strategy at the forum. Earlier, this year also saw the grouping having met at the senior officials’ level. The Indian side was led by Joint Secretary (Europe West) in MEA, Sandeep Chakravorty; French by Bertrand Lortholary, Director (Asia and Oceania), and the Australian side was led by Gary Cowan, First Assistant Secretary (North and South Asia Division). An official level meeting is also expected to happen in September.

France, India & Australia trilateral to be elevated to leaders' level as Modi, Macron, Morrison's meet envisaged

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