Sexual harassment is rife at mining camps in Western Australia, with firms across the industry reporting multiple complaints that have led to 48 staff being fired by the world's biggest, BHP, since 2019, submissions to a government inquiry showed.

The inquiry was initiated after high-profile cases of sexual assault by miners in the mineral-rich state emerged this year, and as the sector struggles with a dire skills shortage and a low proportion of female staff.

Submissions to the investigation were made public this week, including a survey by The Western Mine Workers' Alliance, a union representing hundreds of workers in Pilbara, a region rich in the iron ore that is Australia's most valuable export.

The survey of 425 workers showed two-thirds of female respondents had experienced verbal sexual harassment while working in the FIFO mining industry, and 36 per cent&nbsp;of women and 10 per cent&nbsp;of men some form of harassment in the last 12 months.

"We have heard detailed reports from members about supervisors and managers pressuring female workers into sexual activity in order to access training and job opportunities and there is a widespread perception that such activity takes place," said the union, which is calling for an independent body to investigate complaints.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/earthquake-ravaged-haiti-struggles-to-count-victims-as-foreign-aid-trickles-in-407048">Also read |&nbsp;Earthquake-ravaged Haiti struggles to count victims as foreign aid trickles in</a>

"I have seen a man watch porn on bus and plane. I have found a porn magazine in a truck. I have had underwear stolen. I have had a male try get into my room... I reported harassment on numerous occasions and nothing was done," the union quoted an unnamed woman who works at Rio Tinto as saying.

A Rio spokesperson pointed Reuters to its submissions for examples of steps it is taking as part of an industry-wide response that includes improving safety and reporting procedures and mining camp infrastructure and tightening policies around alcohol.

In more detailed accounts to the panel, which will make recommendations to West Australia's parliament in April 2022, BHP said it had fired 48 workers in two years for incidents related to sexual harassment.

It said it received four rape allegations, one of attempted rape, other reports of unwanted sexual touching, and 73 substantiated reports of sexual harassment from June 2019 to June 2021.

It said it was spending $300 million to increase camp security, improving workforce training, vetting practices and making reporting of incidents easier.

Rio said that since January 2020 it had received one reported case of sexual assault and 29 of sexual harassment that were substantiated, and another report of sexual assault and 14 of sexual harassment that could not be.

Fortescue, Woodside Petroleum and Chevron Corp, also made submissions.

Fortescue said it had 20 harassment matters reported this year, added to 11 last year, across a total workforce of more than 15,000.

Sexual harassment is rife at mining camps in Western Australia, with firms across the industry reporting multiple complaints that have led to 48 staff being fired by the world's biggest, BHP, since 2019, submissions to a government inquiry showed.

Sexual harassment is rife at mining camps in Western Australia, with firms across the industry reporting multiple complaints that have led to 48 staff being fired by the world's biggest, BHP, since 2019, submissions to a government inquiry showed. The inquiry was initiated after high-profile cases of sexual assault by miners in the mineral-rich state emerged this year, and as the sector struggles with a dire skills shortage and a low proportion of female staff. Submissions to the investigation were made public this week, including a survey by The Western Mine Workers' Alliance, a union representing hundreds of workers in Pilbara, a region rich in the iron ore that is Australia's most valuable export. The survey of 425 workers showed two-thirds of female respondents had experienced verbal sexual harassment while working in the FIFO mining industry, and 36 per cent of women and 10 per cent of men some form of harassment in the last 12 months. "We have heard detailed reports from members about supervisors and managers pressuring female workers into sexual activity in order to access training and job opportunities and there is a widespread perception that such activity takes place," said the union, which is calling for an independent body to investigate complaints. Also read | Earthquake-ravaged Haiti struggles to count victims as foreign aid trickles in "I have seen a man watch porn on bus and plane. I have found a porn magazine in a truck. I have had underwear stolen. I have had a male try get into my room... I reported harassment on numerous occasions and nothing was done," the union quoted an unnamed woman who works at Rio Tinto as saying. A Rio spokesperson pointed Reuters to its submissions for examples of steps it is taking as part of an industry-wide response that includes improving safety and reporting procedures and mining camp infrastructure and tightening policies around alcohol. In more detailed accounts to the panel, which will make recommendations to West Australia's parliament in April 2022, BHP said it had fired 48 workers in two years for incidents related to sexual harassment. It said it received four rape allegations, one of attempted rape, other reports of unwanted sexual touching, and 73 substantiated reports of sexual harassment from June 2019 to June 2021. It said it was spending $300 million to increase camp security, improving workforce training, vetting practices and making reporting of incidents easier. Rio said that since January 2020 it had received one reported case of sexual assault and 29 of sexual harassment that were substantiated, and another report of sexual assault and 14 of sexual harassment that could not be. Fortescue, Woodside Petroleum and Chevron Corp, also made submissions. Fortescue said it had 20 harassment matters reported this year, added to 11 last year, across a total workforce of more than 15,000.

Sexual harassment rife in mine camps, western Australian inquiry finds

An Afghan man, first Afghan witness of the alleged crime committed by a highly decorated Australian soldier told a court that he killed his uncle while he was handcuffed. He deposed before&nbsp;the court via a secure video link from Kabul.

Ben Roberts-Smith, a Victoria Cross recipient and highly decorated Australian soldier, faces allegation that he kicked the witness's uncle down a steep embankment. The impact was so significant that his uncle's teeth broke.

Mohammed Hanifa Fatih, the witness, told the court that "a big soldier" kicked and killed his uncle Ali Jan. He was quoted by The Guardian.

Australian soldiers came to the village hunting for&nbsp;Hekmatullah, a rogue Afghan National Army (ANA) soldier who had killed three Australian soldiers a fortnight ago.

As per Fatih, his uncle was kicked in the chest which caused him to fall down the steep embankment. He was then dragged to an orchard. Fatih says that he then heard gunshots, which were allegedly fired by Roberts-Smith or by another soldier but under his orders.

Roberts-Smith denies all allegations. He is suing Sydney Morning Herald, the Age and the Canberra Times for defamation. The newspapers have stood by their reporting.

An Afghan man, first Afghan witness of the alleged crime committed by a highly decorated Australian soldier told a court that he killed his uncle while he was handcuffed.

An Afghan man, first Afghan witness of the alleged crime committed by a highly decorated Australian soldier told a court that he killed his uncle while he was handcuffed. He deposed before the court via a secure video link from Kabul. Ben Roberts-Smith, a Victoria Cross recipient and highly decorated Australian soldier, faces allegation that he kicked the witness's uncle down a steep embankment. The impact was so significant that his uncle's teeth broke. Mohammed Hanifa Fatih, the witness, told the court that "a big soldier" kicked and killed his uncle Ali Jan. He was quoted by The Guardian. Australian soldiers came to the village hunting for Hekmatullah, a rogue Afghan National Army (ANA) soldier who had killed three Australian soldiers a fortnight ago. As per Fatih, his uncle was kicked in the chest which caused him to fall down the steep embankment. He was then dragged to an orchard. Fatih says that he then heard gunshots, which were allegedly fired by Roberts-Smith or by another soldier but under his orders. Roberts-Smith denies all allegations. He is suing Sydney Morning Herald, the Age and the Canberra Times for defamation. The newspapers have stood by their reporting.

Kicked down a cliff: Afghan man says decorated Australian soldier killed his handcuffed uncle

On the first day of action in Tokyo, Australia's Olympic team faced a setback, with a repentant Jamie Kermond testing positive for cocaine.&nbsp;

Australia's chef de mission at the 2020 Games, Ian Chesterman, said on Wednesday that the showjumper's membership of the team had been terminated after he had brought the game into notoriety.&nbsp;

Equestrian Australia also suspended Kermond on Wednesday morning.&nbsp;

“Equestrian Australia has provisionally suspended Jumping athlete Jamie Kermond under the Australian National Anti-Doping Policy 2021. The mandatory Provisional Suspension Notice asserts Mr. Kermond returned a positive A-sample for a metabolite of cocaine following a test conducted by Sport Integrity Australia on 26 June 2021."

"Mr. Kermond is prohibited from participating in any WADA compliant event, including the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, while the provisional suspension is in place," the statement read.

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The Australian Olympic Committee said in a release: “The Australian Olympic Committee has been made aware of the provisional suspension of equestrian athlete Jamie Kermond after being informed by Sport&nbsp;Integrity Australia as an interested party. The Australian Olympic Team Selection Committee will consider the matter later today.”

Jamie Kermond was set to make his Olympics debut. Yet, his 'A' example returned positive for cocaine use, prompting his temporary suspension.&nbsp;

“It is likely that the positive result was from a single recreational use of the drug at a social event and had no connection with my sport of equestrian,” Kermond said in a statement.

“I am extremely upset and remorseful as to what has happened and I accept full responsibility. I am truly sorry as I have let a lot of people down including my family and teammates.

“Hopefully one day I can be forgiven for my mistake [and make] amends through better actions and continued contribution to the sport I know and love.”

On the first day of action in Tokyo, Australia's Olympic team faced a setback, with a repentant Jamie Kermond testing positive for cocaine. Australia's chef de mission at the 2020 Games, Ian Chesterman, said on Wednesday that the showjumper's membership of the team had been terminated after he had brought the game into notoriety.

On the first day of action in Tokyo, Australia's Olympic team faced a setback, with a repentant Jamie Kermond testing positive for cocaine. Australia's chef de mission at the 2020 Games, Ian Chesterman, said on Wednesday that the showjumper's membership of the team had been terminated after he had brought the game into notoriety. Equestrian Australia also suspended Kermond on Wednesday morning. “Equestrian Australia has provisionally suspended Jumping athlete Jamie Kermond under the Australian National Anti-Doping Policy 2021. The mandatory Provisional Suspension Notice asserts Mr. Kermond returned a positive A-sample for a metabolite of cocaine following a test conducted by Sport Integrity Australia on 26 June 2021." "Mr. Kermond is prohibited from participating in any WADA compliant event, including the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, while the provisional suspension is in place," the statement read. ALSO READ: Australia clinches third Olympics after Brisbane declared host of 2032 Games The Australian Olympic Committee said in a release: “The Australian Olympic Committee has been made aware of the provisional suspension of equestrian athlete Jamie Kermond after being informed by Sport Integrity Australia as an interested party. The Australian Olympic Team Selection Committee will consider the matter later today.” Jamie Kermond was set to make his Olympics debut. Yet, his 'A' example returned positive for cocaine use, prompting his temporary suspension. “It is likely that the positive result was from a single recreational use of the drug at a social event and had no connection with my sport of equestrian,” Kermond said in a statement. “I am extremely upset and remorseful as to what has happened and I accept full responsibility. I am truly sorry as I have let a lot of people down including my family and teammates. “Hopefully one day I can be forgiven for my mistake [and make] amends through better actions and continued contribution to the sport I know and love.”

Australian showjumper Jamie Kermond suspended from Tokyo Olympics after testing positive for cocaine

Police have fined two men who had to be rescued from an Australian forest after they were chased by a deer while sunbathing naked on a beach and became lost.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The men called for help about 6 pm&nbsp;on&nbsp;Sunday after they became lost in the Royal National Park south of Sydney, a police statement said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Unbelievably, we saw two men sunbaking naked on a beach on the South Coast,"&nbsp;Police Commissioner Mick Fuller told reporters.&nbsp;"They were startled by a deer, ran into the national ... Park and got lost."&nbsp;&nbsp;

Their rescue involved police aircraft, the State Emergency Service and ambulance officers.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The men, aged 30 and 49, were fined 1,000 Australian dollars ($759) each for breaching a stay-home pandemic order that restricted them to Sydney, police said&nbsp;on&nbsp;Monday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The younger man was found&nbsp;'naked and carrying a backpack?’&nbsp;while the older man&nbsp;was&nbsp;'partially clothed’," the police statement said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Clearly putting people at risk by leaving home without a proper reason, ... Then getting lost in the national park and diverting important resources away from the health operation, I think they should be embarrassed,"&nbsp;Fuller said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The pair were among 44 people fined by police on Sunday for breaching a public health order after Sydney began a two-week lockdown on Friday due to a new COVID-19 cluster.&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Police have fined two men who had to be rescued from an Australian forest after they were chased by a deer while sunbathing naked on a beach and became lost. The men called for help about 6 pm on Sunday after they became lost in the Royal National Park south of Sydney, a police statement said.

Police have fined two men who had to be rescued from an Australian forest after they were chased by a deer while sunbathing naked on a beach and became lost. The men called for help about 6 pm on Sunday after they became lost in the Royal National Park south of Sydney, a police statement said. "Unbelievably, we saw two men sunbaking naked on a beach on the South Coast," Police Commissioner Mick Fuller told reporters. "They were startled by a deer, ran into the national ... Park and got lost." Their rescue involved police aircraft, the State Emergency Service and ambulance officers. The men, aged 30 and 49, were fined 1,000 Australian dollars ($759) each for breaching a stay-home pandemic order that restricted them to Sydney, police said on Monday. The younger man was found 'naked and carrying a backpack?’ while the older man was 'partially clothed’," the police statement said. "Clearly putting people at risk by leaving home without a proper reason, ... Then getting lost in the national park and diverting important resources away from the health operation, I think they should be embarrassed," Fuller said. The pair were among 44 people fined by police on Sunday for breaching a public health order after Sydney began a two-week lockdown on Friday due to a new COVID-19 cluster. (With inputs from agencies)

Police rescue spooked nude sunbathers from Australian forest  

A 73-year-old Australian, who is stranded in India since March last year, has filed a lawsuit before a Sydney court against the federal government for banning flights from India and threatening to prosecute those attempting to enter the country with the possibility of a jail term and a penalty, saying the move is 'unconstitutional'.&nbsp;

The lawyers of Gary Newman, who is stranded in Bengaluru since March last year, have argued in the federal court in Sydney that the ban was 'unconstitutional'.&nbsp;

The Australian government, for the first time in history, recently imposed a ban on its citizens from returning home, if they have spent time in India up to 14 days before flying back.&nbsp;

The government threatened to prosecute them with a possibility of five years of jail term or a penalty of 66,000 Australian dollars (USD 50,899).&nbsp;

Michael Bradley and Chris Ward lodged the application before Justice Stephen Burley on Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp;

The application firstly said that the Commonwealth was acting outside its powers and secondly, Health Minister Greg Hunt's declaration was in breach of an implied freedom to return home, ABC news reported.&nbsp;

Newman is represented by Bradley and Ward, who would work as pro bono to overturn the temporary ban. Pro bono generally refers to services that are rendered by a professional for free or at a lower cost for the public good.&nbsp;

At a brief directions hearing, Ward said Newman was in Bengaluru and 'wishes' to return home, but had been 'prevented' from doing so by Hunt's declaration.&nbsp;

Burley ordered that the proceedings be expedited and a formal hearing date be determined within the next 24 to 48 hours.&nbsp;

On Saturday, Hunt issued a statement on the travel ban for Australians returning from India.&nbsp;

The statement said, ''the Government will implement a temporary pause on travellers from India entering Australian territory if the passenger has been in India within 14 days of the person's time of departure".&nbsp;

The temporary pause, announced after the National Cabinet, was based on advice about the worsening COVID-19 situation in India.&nbsp;

The pause came into effect on Monday and will be reviewed on May 15.&nbsp;

Hunt said the risk assessment that informed the decision was based on the proportion of overseas travellers in quarantine in Australia, who have acquired a COVID-19 infection in India.&nbsp;

The move triggered a backlash with several lawmakers, doctors, civil societies and businessmen criticising the government for 'abandoning' Australians in India and threatening the travellers with a hefty penalty and a jail term.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Scott Morrison, while speaking to reporters, defended the decision and said that the pause 'is working', which means it will enable the government to get Australian residents and their immediate families back on repatriation flights.&nbsp;

India is struggling with an unprecedented second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic with more than 3,00,000 daily new coronavirus cases being reported in the past one week.&nbsp;

According to Indian health ministry data on Wednesday, a record 3,780 fresh COVID-19 fatalities were registered in a single day in India, taking the death toll to 2,26,188, while 3,82,315 new coronavirus infections were recorded.&nbsp;

With the fresh cases, the total tally of COVID-19 cases in the country climbed to 2,06,65,148.&nbsp;

A 73-year-old Australian, who is stranded in India since March last year, has filed a lawsuit before a Sydney court against the federal government for banning flights from India and threatening to prosecute those attempting to enter the country with the possibility of a jail term and a penalty, saying the move is 'unconstitutional'.

A 73-year-old Australian, who is stranded in India since March last year, has filed a lawsuit before a Sydney court against the federal government for banning flights from India and threatening to prosecute those attempting to enter the country with the possibility of a jail term and a penalty, saying the move is 'unconstitutional'. The lawyers of Gary Newman, who is stranded in Bengaluru since March last year, have argued in the federal court in Sydney that the ban was 'unconstitutional'. The Australian government, for the first time in history, recently imposed a ban on its citizens from returning home, if they have spent time in India up to 14 days before flying back. The government threatened to prosecute them with a possibility of five years of jail term or a penalty of 66,000 Australian dollars (USD 50,899). Michael Bradley and Chris Ward lodged the application before Justice Stephen Burley on Wednesday afternoon. The application firstly said that the Commonwealth was acting outside its powers and secondly, Health Minister Greg Hunt's declaration was in breach of an implied freedom to return home, ABC news reported. Newman is represented by Bradley and Ward, who would work as pro bono to overturn the temporary ban. Pro bono generally refers to services that are rendered by a professional for free or at a lower cost for the public good. At a brief directions hearing, Ward said Newman was in Bengaluru and 'wishes' to return home, but had been 'prevented' from doing so by Hunt's declaration. Burley ordered that the proceedings be expedited and a formal hearing date be determined within the next 24 to 48 hours. On Saturday, Hunt issued a statement on the travel ban for Australians returning from India. The statement said, ''the Government will implement a temporary pause on travellers from India entering Australian territory if the passenger has been in India within 14 days of the person's time of departure". The temporary pause, announced after the National Cabinet, was based on advice about the worsening COVID-19 situation in India. The pause came into effect on Monday and will be reviewed on May 15. Hunt said the risk assessment that informed the decision was based on the proportion of overseas travellers in quarantine in Australia, who have acquired a COVID-19 infection in India. The move triggered a backlash with several lawmakers, doctors, civil societies and businessmen criticising the government for 'abandoning' Australians in India and threatening the travellers with a hefty penalty and a jail term. Prime Minister Scott Morrison, while speaking to reporters, defended the decision and said that the pause 'is working', which means it will enable the government to get Australian residents and their immediate families back on repatriation flights. India is struggling with an unprecedented second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic with more than 3,00,000 daily new coronavirus cases being reported in the past one week. According to Indian health ministry data on Wednesday, a record 3,780 fresh COVID-19 fatalities were registered in a single day in India, taking the death toll to 2,26,188, while 3,82,315 new coronavirus infections were recorded. With the fresh cases, the total tally of COVID-19 cases in the country climbed to 2,06,65,148.

73-yr-old Australian stuck in Bengaluru sues Morrison govt for ban on flights from India  

An Australian couple has been freed from house arrest in Myanmar and allowed to leave the country without charge.

The country has been in turmoil since a military coup on February 1 that ousted elected leader Aung San Suu Kyi. More than 2,500 people have been detained since the coup, according to the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners monitoring group.

Christa Avery and her husband Matthew O’Kane, to this end, were refused permission to leave Myanmar last month when they were about to board a flight home.

“I am, of course, incredibly relieved to have been released and to be on my way home with my husband, Matt,” Avery said in a statement. “Even though I knew that I had done nothing wrong, it was very stressful being held under house arrest for two weeks.”

Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade said it had provided support for the couple's departure from Yangon on April 4.

Another Australian, Sean Turnell, an economic adviser to Suu Kyi, has been detained since shortly after the army seized power and is in prison.

Authorities have said Turnell is under investigation, but no charge has been announced against him. A lawyer for Suu Kyi said last week that he understood Turnell faced charges under the Official Secrets Act, but no charges have been confirmed.

An Australian couple has been freed from house arrest in Myanmar and allowed to leave the country without charge. The country has been in turmoil since a military coup on February 1 that ousted elected leader Aung San Suu Kyi.

An Australian couple has been freed from house arrest in Myanmar and allowed to leave the country without charge. The country has been in turmoil since a military coup on February 1 that ousted elected leader Aung San Suu Kyi. More than 2,500 people have been detained since the coup, according to the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners monitoring group. Christa Avery and her husband Matthew O’Kane, to this end, were refused permission to leave Myanmar last month when they were about to board a flight home. “I am, of course, incredibly relieved to have been released and to be on my way home with my husband, Matt,” Avery said in a statement. “Even though I knew that I had done nothing wrong, it was very stressful being held under house arrest for two weeks.” Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade said it had provided support for the couple's departure from Yangon on April 4. Another Australian, Sean Turnell, an economic adviser to Suu Kyi, has been detained since shortly after the army seized power and is in prison. Authorities have said Turnell is under investigation, but no charge has been announced against him. A lawyer for Suu Kyi said last week that he understood Turnell faced charges under the Official Secrets Act, but no charges have been confirmed.

Two Australians freed from house arrest in Myanmar

Injury-plagued Australia is finding a hard time to figure out their playing XI for their first Test against Team India. Hosts have already lost Will Pucovski, Marnus Harris and David Warner to injuries, however, former Aussie wicketkeeper-batsman Brad Haddin is convinced that veteran batsman Shaun Marsh is likely to not feature in team's future plans.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pak-vs-nz-skipper-babar-azam-ruled-out-of-t20-series-due-to-fractured-thumb-349444" hreflang="en">Pak vs NZ: Skipper Babar Azam ruled out of T20 series due to fractured thumb</a>

With multiple injuries, Media has been talking about the potential return of Shaun Marsh in the Test squad. However, Haddin feels that Marsh's time is done. “I think Shaun Marsh’s time is done,” Haddin said on Fox Cricket.&nbsp;

“The theatre around it sounds great. He has started the Sheffield Shield season in fine form, he’s played really well tonight but he’s 37 years of age. You’ve got to move on. Everyone wants him to play again for Australia because he is such a good person but I think we’ve got to look at someone else.”

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sunil-gavaskar-picks-this-batsman-who-will-bat-at-no4-after-virat-kohli-leaves-349321" hreflang="en">Sunil Gavaskar picks this batsman who will bat at No.4 after Virat Kohli leaves</a>

Brett Lee agreed with Brad Haddin and said that Marsh had his share of opportunities. “The hardest thing for me is when he is on, he is so good to watch,” Lee said. “He has had his opportunities; he has had his chances. It’s probably been injury that has let him down rather than form,” the former Australia quick said.

Injury-plagued Australia is finding a hard time to figure out their playing XI for their first Test against Team India. Hosts have already lost Will Pucovski, Marnus Harris and David Warner to injuries, however, former Aussie wicketkeeper-batsman Brad Haddin is convinced that veteran batsman Shaun Marsh is likely to not feature in team's future plans.

Injury-plagued Australia is finding a hard time to figure out their playing XI for their first Test against Team India. Hosts have already lost Will Pucovski, Marnus Harris and David Warner to injuries, however, former Aussie wicketkeeper-batsman Brad Haddin is convinced that veteran batsman Shaun Marsh is likely to not feature in team's future plans. Also read: Pak vs NZ: Skipper Babar Azam ruled out of T20 series due to fractured thumb With multiple injuries, Media has been talking about the potential return of Shaun Marsh in the Test squad. However, Haddin feels that Marsh's time is done. “I think Shaun Marsh’s time is done,” Haddin said on Fox Cricket. “The theatre around it sounds great. He has started the Sheffield Shield season in fine form, he’s played really well tonight but he’s 37 years of age. You’ve got to move on. Everyone wants him to play again for Australia because he is such a good person but I think we’ve got to look at someone else.” Also read: Sunil Gavaskar picks this batsman who will bat at No.4 after Virat Kohli leaves Brett Lee agreed with Brad Haddin and said that Marsh had his share of opportunities. “The hardest thing for me is when he is on, he is so good to watch,” Lee said. “He has had his opportunities; he has had his chances. It’s probably been injury that has let him down rather than form,” the former Australia quick said.

'I think Shaun Marsh’s time is done': Brad Haddin on chances of veteran Aussie's selection

An Australian state recently achieved an amazing feat!&nbsp;The island state of Tasmania now runs on 100% renewable energy.

The state has met its goal to become fully self sufficient in terms of green energy two years ahead of schedule. The feat was achieved in November, when out of 31 wind turbines, the 29th went online.

Now, essentially the state has&nbsp;access to more energy than it needs.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/pm-modi-interacts-with-vestas-ceo-henrik-andersen-highlights-indias-efforts-to-harness-renewable-energy-333041" hreflang="en">PM Modi interacts with Vestas CEO Henrik Andersen, highlights India’s efforts to harness renewable energy</a>

“We have reached 100% thanks to our commitment to realizing Tasmania’s renewable energy potential through our nation-leading energy policies and making Tasmania attractive for industry investment, which in turn is creating jobs across the state, particularly in our regions”, Energy Minister Guy Barnett said in a statement.

Tasmania is known for its environment friendly forward thinking solutions. In fact, as long ago as 1895, the Duck Reach Power Station opened in the city of Launceston, when it ran entirely on hydropower.

In the last two year, all state’s energy needs were met through hydroelectric systems, along with wind energy generation.

Now, the state wants to double its generation of renewable energy, with a target of 200 per cent by 2040.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/south-asia/latest-world-news-to-combat-asias-next-clean-energy-battle-indonesia-needs-to-sign-new-renewable-energy-contract-report-278496" hreflang="en">To combat Asia's energy battle, Indonesia needs to sign new renewable energy contract: Report</a>

In the last ten years, Australia’s generation of renewable energy doubled. But even then, fossil fuels accounted for 94 per cent of the country’s resource usage. Oil accounted for 39 per cent, coal for 29 per cent, and natural gas for 26 per cent.

The country is also one of the largest exporters of energy in the world. 88 per cent of black coal production in the country was sent to another country in the last two years.

Another state - Victoria recently announced plans to invest $1.2 billion in renewable energy. But the Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison views gas as the primary way to help the economy recover from COVID-19.

An Australian state recently achieved an amazing feat! The island state of Tasmania now runs on 100% renewable energy. The state has met its goal to become fully self sufficient in terms of green energy two years ahead of schedule.

An Australian state recently achieved an amazing feat! The island state of Tasmania now runs on 100% renewable energy. The state has met its goal to become fully self sufficient in terms of green energy two years ahead of schedule. The feat was achieved in November, when out of 31 wind turbines, the 29th went online. Now, essentially the state has access to more energy than it needs. Also read: PM Modi interacts with Vestas CEO Henrik Andersen, highlights India’s efforts to harness renewable energy “We have reached 100% thanks to our commitment to realizing Tasmania’s renewable energy potential through our nation-leading energy policies and making Tasmania attractive for industry investment, which in turn is creating jobs across the state, particularly in our regions”, Energy Minister Guy Barnett said in a statement. Tasmania is known for its environment friendly forward thinking solutions. In fact, as long ago as 1895, the Duck Reach Power Station opened in the city of Launceston, when it ran entirely on hydropower. In the last two year, all state’s energy needs were met through hydroelectric systems, along with wind energy generation. Now, the state wants to double its generation of renewable energy, with a target of 200 per cent by 2040. Also read: To combat Asia's energy battle, Indonesia needs to sign new renewable energy contract: Report In the last ten years, Australia’s generation of renewable energy doubled. But even then, fossil fuels accounted for 94 per cent of the country’s resource usage. Oil accounted for 39 per cent, coal for 29 per cent, and natural gas for 26 per cent. The country is also one of the largest exporters of energy in the world. 88 per cent of black coal production in the country was sent to another country in the last two years. Another state - Victoria recently announced plans to invest $1.2 billion in renewable energy. But the Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison views gas as the primary way to help the economy recover from COVID-19.

This Australian state now runs on 100% renewable energy

A piece of Australian outback which is almost bigger than greater London has converted in the national park. This national park will protect threatened species, authorities said Saturday, in a move welcomed by green groups.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-kingdom-to-exempt-quarantine-for-arrivals-from-low-covid-19-risk-countries-309058" hreflang="en">United Kingdom to exempt quarantine for arrivals from low COVID-19 risk countries</a>

Narrierra Station is situated in northwest New South Wales. The outback is a 1,534-square kilometre (592-square-mile) vast property. It is the biggest purchase of private land for national parks ever made by the state government, Environment Minister Matt Kean said.

It stretches across floodplains, wetlands and landscapes "currently not found anywhere in NSW national parks", he added.&nbsp;

The price tag for the property is still unknown.

"Narriearra is an important refuge for threatened wildlife, with more than 25 threatened animal species, including nearly 90 per cent of NSW's critical habitat and breeding areas for the nationally endangered Grey Grasswren," said Kean.

Several indigenous artefacts, tools and stone arrangements have been found in the area and local Aboriginal Land Council has been invited to suggest a name for the park, he added.

The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) welcomed the new park.

"This new National Park is an example of the ambitious action required to slow and reverse the biodiversity extinction crisis," WWF Australia's Stuart Blanch said but added NSW needed to do more.

Stuart has urged the government to employ people from the indigenous community to manage the land and protect important sites.&nbsp;

Conservation organisation Pew Charitable Trusts also hailed the move.

"The Outback landscapes in western New South Wales have not been highly protected and the scale of this historic purchase is exciting," the group's Australian director Barry Traill said.

A piece of Australian outback which is almost bigger than greater London has converted in the national park. This national park will protect threatened species, authorities said Saturday, in a move welcomed by green groups.

A piece of Australian outback which is almost bigger than greater London has converted in the national park. This national park will protect threatened species, authorities said Saturday, in a move welcomed by green groups. Also read: United Kingdom to exempt quarantine for arrivals from low COVID-19 risk countries Narrierra Station is situated in northwest New South Wales. The outback is a 1,534-square kilometre (592-square-mile) vast property. It is the biggest purchase of private land for national parks ever made by the state government, Environment Minister Matt Kean said. It stretches across floodplains, wetlands and landscapes "currently not found anywhere in NSW national parks", he added. The price tag for the property is still unknown. "Narriearra is an important refuge for threatened wildlife, with more than 25 threatened animal species, including nearly 90 per cent of NSW's critical habitat and breeding areas for the nationally endangered Grey Grasswren," said Kean. Several indigenous artefacts, tools and stone arrangements have been found in the area and local Aboriginal Land Council has been invited to suggest a name for the park, he added. The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) welcomed the new park. "This new National Park is an example of the ambitious action required to slow and reverse the biodiversity extinction crisis," WWF Australia's Stuart Blanch said but added NSW needed to do more. Stuart has urged the government to employ people from the indigenous community to manage the land and protect important sites. Conservation organisation Pew Charitable Trusts also hailed the move. "The Outback landscapes in western New South Wales have not been highly protected and the scale of this historic purchase is exciting," the group's Australian director Barry Traill said.

Australian outback station turned into national park to protect threatened species

The Wild Life Sydney Zoo at Darling Harbour may be closed to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, but that doesn't mean a slowdown of work for curatorial supervisor and zookeeper, Renee Howell.

Australian zookeeper copes with changes on the job during coronavirus

Australia's pacer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/peter-siddles-bowling-is-quite-similar-to-mcgraths-ricky-ponting-241379">Peter Siddle</a> on Sunday announced his retirement from international cricket. 
 
The player made an emotional announcement in front of his team-mates at the Melbourne Cricket Ground before the start of play on day four of the ongoing second Test against New Zealand, cricket.com.au reported. 
 
Siddle, who has been a vital cog in the Aussie bowling scheme of things, did not get a chance to play in the second Test against New Zealand. After announcing retirement, the player was seen exchanging hugs with his team-mates and support staff of Australia. 
 
Siddle ends his career at the 13th spot on the list of highest wicket-takers for Australia in the longest format of the game. He finishes with 221 wickets from 67 Test matches. 
 
Earlier this year, the player had starred in England to allow Australia to retain the Ashes. 
 
He had made his debut in 2008 against India at Mohali and went to dismiss Sachin Tendulkar to register his first scalp in the longest format of the game. 
 
Siddle also managed to take a Test hat-trick on his birthday during the 2010-11 Ashes. 
 
He also played 22 ODIs and two T20s <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/residents-holidaymakers-urged-to-leave-australian-region-as-fire-conditions-worsen-270824">for Australia</a>. He is currently representing the Adelaide Strikers in the ongoing Big Bash League (BBL).

Australia's pacer Peter Siddle on Sunday announced his retirement from international cricket. The player made an emotional announcement in front of his team-mates at the Melbourne Cricket Ground before the start of play on day four of the ongoing second Test against New Zealand, cricket.

Australia's pacer Peter Siddle on Sunday announced his retirement from international cricket. The player made an emotional announcement in front of his team-mates at the Melbourne Cricket Ground before the start of play on day four of the ongoing second Test against New Zealand, cricket.com.au reported. Siddle, who has been a vital cog in the Aussie bowling scheme of things, did not get a chance to play in the second Test against New Zealand. After announcing retirement, the player was seen exchanging hugs with his team-mates and support staff of Australia. Siddle ends his career at the 13th spot on the list of highest wicket-takers for Australia in the longest format of the game. He finishes with 221 wickets from 67 Test matches. Earlier this year, the player had starred in England to allow Australia to retain the Ashes. He had made his debut in 2008 against India at Mohali and went to dismiss Sachin Tendulkar to register his first scalp in the longest format of the game. Siddle also managed to take a Test hat-trick on his birthday during the 2010-11 Ashes. He also played 22 ODIs and two T20s for Australia. He is currently representing the Adelaide Strikers in the ongoing Big Bash League (BBL).

Australian pacer Peter Siddle announces retirement from international cricket

Two customs agents have been charged in connection with Australia's largest ever onshore seizure of the drug "ice", a bust worth a record US$840 million, police said Thursday.

Australian Border Force agents in April found 1.6 tonnes of methylamphetamine and 37 kilograms&nbsp;of heroin in vacuum-sealed packages hidden inside stereo speakers shipped from Thailand to Melbourne.

Police arrested two men and a woman in their late thirties on Wednesday following raids in suburban Melbourne, Australia's second-largest city.

"Two of the three were customs agents. They are trusted insiders within the industry," Australian Federal Police deputy commissioner Neil Gaughan said.

He added they were not government employees but private contractors.

"They used their position of trust to circumvent the border controls that exist within Australia," he was quoted as saying by national broadcaster ABC.

Police said they were cooperating with authorities in Thailand where an investigation was ongoing.

Two customs agents have been charged in connection with Australia's largest ever onshore seizure of the drug "ice", a bust worth a record US$840 million, police said Thursday.

Two customs agents have been charged in connection with Australia's largest ever onshore seizure of the drug "ice", a bust worth a record US$840 million, police said Thursday. Australian Border Force agents in April found 1.6 tonnes of methylamphetamine and 37 kilograms of heroin in vacuum-sealed packages hidden inside stereo speakers shipped from Thailand to Melbourne. Police arrested two men and a woman in their late thirties on Wednesday following raids in suburban Melbourne, Australia's second-largest city. "Two of the three were customs agents. They are trusted insiders within the industry," Australian Federal Police deputy commissioner Neil Gaughan said. He added they were not government employees but private contractors. "They used their position of trust to circumvent the border controls that exist within Australia," he was quoted as saying by national broadcaster ABC. Police said they were cooperating with authorities in Thailand where an investigation was ongoing.

Customs agents charged over record Australian drug bust

Australian aborigines pay the biggest price. The Murray-Darling river system is the biggest and 3rd longest in Australia. Millions of fishes have been washed ashore dead in January. Watch this video to know more.

Australia's mighty river runs dry, worst drought of the century

Abortion was decriminalised in Australia's State of New South Wales on Thursday after weeks of contentious debate, bringing its laws into line with the rest of the country.&nbsp;

Politicians from across the political spectrum voted to overturn the laws that date back to 1900 under which&nbsp;women seeking an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-passes-bill-to-decriminalise-abortion-241584">abortion</a> in Sydney or elsewhere in the state and their doctors could face up to 10 years in prison.

The legislation was delayed for months by a small group of conservatives from the ruling Liberal Party who rebelled against their leader.&nbsp;

The passage of the bill was cheered by pro-choice advocates, who had staged several large demonstrations in its support in recent months, countered by similarly passionate pro-life rallies.

Alex Greenwich, the independent representative for Sydney who introduced the bill, said that he was "sorry it has taken us so long" to remove abortion from the criminal code.&nbsp;

"My deepest gratitude goes to my parliamentary colleagues and to the dedicated women's rights campaigners who have fought toward this for decades," he said in a statement.

Though prosecutions were rare, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alabama-senate-bans-nearly-all-abortions-including-rape-cases-218840">procedure</a> was only considered legal in Australia's most populous state if the doctor believed the woman's physical or mental health was in danger.

The new legislation allows abortions to be performed by a doctor on request up to 22 weeks, beyond which the consent of two doctors would be required.

It also makes it illegal for an unqualified person to perform an abortion, with the offence punishable by up to seven years in jail.

Amendments made to appease the bill's conservative opponents include tighter regulations on late-term abortions and mandated medical care for any baby born alive following a termination procedure.

New South Wales last year introduced "safe access zones" around medical clinics and hospitals that provide terminations, a measure aimed at stopping anti-abortion protesters from harassing women.

Abortion was decriminalised in Australia's State of New South Wales on Thursday after weeks of contentious debate, bringing its laws into line with the rest of the country.

Abortion was decriminalised in Australia's State of New South Wales on Thursday after weeks of contentious debate, bringing its laws into line with the rest of the country. Politicians from across the political spectrum voted to overturn the laws that date back to 1900 under which women seeking an abortion in Sydney or elsewhere in the state and their doctors could face up to 10 years in prison. The legislation was delayed for months by a small group of conservatives from the ruling Liberal Party who rebelled against their leader. The passage of the bill was cheered by pro-choice advocates, who had staged several large demonstrations in its support in recent months, countered by similarly passionate pro-life rallies. Alex Greenwich, the independent representative for Sydney who introduced the bill, said that he was "sorry it has taken us so long" to remove abortion from the criminal code. "My deepest gratitude goes to my parliamentary colleagues and to the dedicated women's rights campaigners who have fought toward this for decades," he said in a statement. Though prosecutions were rare, the procedure was only considered legal in Australia's most populous state if the doctor believed the woman's physical or mental health was in danger. The new legislation allows abortions to be performed by a doctor on request up to 22 weeks, beyond which the consent of two doctors would be required. It also makes it illegal for an unqualified person to perform an abortion, with the offence punishable by up to seven years in jail. Amendments made to appease the bill's conservative opponents include tighter regulations on late-term abortions and mandated medical care for any baby born alive following a termination procedure. New South Wales last year introduced "safe access zones" around medical clinics and hospitals that provide terminations, a measure aimed at stopping anti-abortion protesters from harassing women.

Abortion effectively decriminalised in Australia as New South Wales passes new bill

Australian beekeeper Paul Wood removed a treasure trove of honeycombs in the form of a massive bee hive hidden in a woman's home in suburban Brisbane, Australia.

Australian bee whisperer extracts 50kg trove of honey hidden in ceiling

Australia's Liberal National coalition government under Prime Minister Scott Morrison has won a historic victory, taking his party for a third term in government against all expectations.

Australian PM Morrison celebrates unexpected election victory

Australia's corporate regulators will be subjected to a new oversight body in a shake-up of the banking sector recommended on Monday by a high-powered independent inquiry into financial sector greed and malpractice.

The government-appointed inquiry known as a Royal Commission also advised in its landmark report that remuneration structures across the industry be overhauled to remove systemic conflicts of interest.

The commission's recommendations were released by the government after 11 months of shocking revelations of financial wrongdoing which wiped A$60 billion ($43.45 billion) from the country's top finance stocks.

"The price paid by our community has been immense and goes beyond just the financial," Australian Treasurer Josh Frydenberg said as the government promised to take action on all the recommendations.

"Businesses have been broken, and the emotional stress and personal pain have broken lives."

The inquiry's recommendations still need to be approved by parliament.

The inquiry revealed misconduct had reached into the sector's upper echelons, with top wealth manager AMP Ltd engaging in board-level deception of a regulator over the deliberate charging of customers for financial advice it never gave, costing the fund manager its chairman, CEO and several directors.

The final report from Commissioner Kenneth Hayne, a former High Court justice, found that the industry's problems were exacerbated by an unwillingness by corporations to accept responsibility.

"That is, there remains a reluctance in some entities to form and then to give practical effect to their understanding of what is ethical, of what is efficient, honest and fair, of what is the right thing to do," the report said.

Ahead of the report's release, shares in the "Big Four" banks all closed up about one per cent as investors hoped the report would at least end months of uncertainty in the sector.

However, wealth managers, whose reputations were shredded in the inquiry, were punished with IOOF Holdings Ltd stock closing down 4.5 per cent and AMP sliding to a record low. The broader market closed 0.5 per cent higher.

Watchdog bites

The Royal Commission made 76 recommendations in its final report that included a renewed focus on the corporate and prudential regulators which, it said, should be subjected to a new oversight authority.

Regulators were routinely accused throughout 68 days of Royal Commission hearings of working too closely with the banks. When misconduct was revealed, it either went unpunished or the consequences did not reflect the seriousness of what had been done, the inquiry found.

The Royal Commission used its final report on Monday to recommend that regulators use infringement notices for administrative failings, rather than issues that should be referred to a judge.

The institutional impropriety revealed during the past 12 months hurt some of society's most vulnerable customers, highlighted by the case of a blind pensioner being persuaded to guarantee a loan without warning her of the risks.

In a separate incident, an insurer used aggressive sales techniques to sell an opaque product to a young man with Down Syndrome.

The report said 24 instances of bad corporate behaviour, including the wide-spread charging of fees for services not rendered, have been referred to the regulators for possible prosecution.

Credit squeeze

During 2018, investors responded to the punishing Royal Commission hearings by pulling their money from brand-tarnished insurers, banks and fund managers. Shareholders registered their distaste by voting against the executive remuneration plans of two of Australia's biggest financial institutions, National Australia Bank and Australia and New Zealand Banking Group.

The two big banks, alongside counterparts Commonwealth Bank of Australia, Westpac Banking Corporation, and wealth managers AMP and IOOF, were among the worst hit by the inquiry, although wide-spread impropriety was also found in other sectors including insurance.

The Royal Commission's report comes ahead of an election expected in May which opinion polls suggest the centre-left Labor party will win. Labor says it expects to adopt all the commission's recommendations.

Conservative Prime Minister Scott Morrison, who initially dismissed Labor calls for a banking inquiry as a "populist whinge", has said he also expects to take up most of the recommendations.

But he has warned against overreaching and cutting off credit flows, a likely battle-line for the government as it fights for electoral survival.

Australia's corporate regulators will be subjected to a new oversight body in a shake-up of the banking sector recommended on Monday by a high-powered independent inquiry into financial sector greed and malpractice.

Australia's corporate regulators will be subjected to a new oversight body in a shake-up of the banking sector recommended on Monday by a high-powered independent inquiry into financial sector greed and malpractice. The government-appointed inquiry known as a Royal Commission also advised in its landmark report that remuneration structures across the industry be overhauled to remove systemic conflicts of interest. The commission's recommendations were released by the government after 11 months of shocking revelations of financial wrongdoing which wiped A$60 billion ($43.45 billion) from the country's top finance stocks. "The price paid by our community has been immense and goes beyond just the financial," Australian Treasurer Josh Frydenberg said as the government promised to take action on all the recommendations. "Businesses have been broken, and the emotional stress and personal pain have broken lives." The inquiry's recommendations still need to be approved by parliament. The inquiry revealed misconduct had reached into the sector's upper echelons, with top wealth manager AMP Ltd engaging in board-level deception of a regulator over the deliberate charging of customers for financial advice it never gave, costing the fund manager its chairman, CEO and several directors. The final report from Commissioner Kenneth Hayne, a former High Court justice, found that the industry's problems were exacerbated by an unwillingness by corporations to accept responsibility. "That is, there remains a reluctance in some entities to form and then to give practical effect to their understanding of what is ethical, of what is efficient, honest and fair, of what is the right thing to do," the report said. Ahead of the report's release, shares in the "Big Four" banks all closed up about one per cent as investors hoped the report would at least end months of uncertainty in the sector. However, wealth managers, whose reputations were shredded in the inquiry, were punished with IOOF Holdings Ltd stock closing down 4.5 per cent and AMP sliding to a record low. The broader market closed 0.5 per cent higher. Watchdog bites The Royal Commission made 76 recommendations in its final report that included a renewed focus on the corporate and prudential regulators which, it said, should be subjected to a new oversight authority. Regulators were routinely accused throughout 68 days of Royal Commission hearings of working too closely with the banks. When misconduct was revealed, it either went unpunished or the consequences did not reflect the seriousness of what had been done, the inquiry found. The Royal Commission used its final report on Monday to recommend that regulators use infringement notices for administrative failings, rather than issues that should be referred to a judge. The institutional impropriety revealed during the past 12 months hurt some of society's most vulnerable customers, highlighted by the case of a blind pensioner being persuaded to guarantee a loan without warning her of the risks. In a separate incident, an insurer used aggressive sales techniques to sell an opaque product to a young man with Down Syndrome. The report said 24 instances of bad corporate behaviour, including the wide-spread charging of fees for services not rendered, have been referred to the regulators for possible prosecution. Credit squeeze During 2018, investors responded to the punishing Royal Commission hearings by pulling their money from brand-tarnished insurers, banks and fund managers. Shareholders registered their distaste by voting against the executive remuneration plans of two of Australia's biggest financial institutions, National Australia Bank and Australia and New Zealand Banking Group. The two big banks, alongside counterparts Commonwealth Bank of Australia, Westpac Banking Corporation, and wealth managers AMP and IOOF, were among the worst hit by the inquiry, although wide-spread impropriety was also found in other sectors including insurance. The Royal Commission's report comes ahead of an election expected in May which opinion polls suggest the centre-left Labor party will win. Labor says it expects to adopt all the commission's recommendations. Conservative Prime Minister Scott Morrison, who initially dismissed Labor calls for a banking inquiry as a "populist whinge", has said he also expects to take up most of the recommendations. But he has warned against overreaching and cutting off credit flows, a likely battle-line for the government as it fights for electoral survival.

Australia to overhaul regulators after landmark banking inquiry

Australia on Friday acknowledged it may have killed as many as 18 civilians in an air strike on Mosul two years ago, during a massive and ultimately successful campaign to dislodge jihadi fighters.

Following an internal investigation, the Australian Defence Forces said coalition raids against Islamic State group positions in the then-occupied northern Iraqi city on June 13, 2017 "may have caused civilian casualties".

"The coalition assesses that between six and 18 civilians may have been killed," during strikes on the Al Shafaar neighbourhood.

Air Marshal Mel Hupfeld indicated there was no firm information about the number of deaths or whether they came as a result of the Australian strike, or from other coalition members.

The intense aerial bombardment to retake what had been Iraq's second-largest city has already been the subject of intense scrutiny, with the US-led coalition admitting over 1,100 civilian casualties.

A total of 30,008 strikes against IS were carried out between August 2014 and the end of August 2018, with the Mosul campaign being particularly intense.

Critics have alleged the coalition strategy leaned too much on overwhelming air power. While quicker and posing fewer risks for coalition forces, they allege it put civilians at greater risk.&nbsp;

Monitoring group Airwars says the number of civilian deaths acknowledged by the coalition is well below the true toll of the bombing campaign, estimating that at least 7,468 civilians were killed.

IS was known to hold civilians as human shields in a deliberate effort evade detection, deter air strikes and shape Western public opinion against the war.

Hupfeld said the Australian strike was requested by Iraqi security forces and was in "full compliance with the law of armed conflict and applicable rules of engagement".

"The Australian Defence Force takes all feasible precautions to minimise the risk of civilian casualties."

Ahead of the strike, seven IS fighters were identified in a building and adjacent courtyard, armed with heavy weapons.

They were hit with a "500lb precision guided munition" which "achieved the effect desired".

Australia's defence forces said the civilian casualties were in a nearby building.

Australia on Friday acknowledged it may have killed as many as 18 civilians in an air strike on Mosul two years ago, during a massive and ultimately successful campaign to dislodge jihadi fighters.

Australia on Friday acknowledged it may have killed as many as 18 civilians in an air strike on Mosul two years ago, during a massive and ultimately successful campaign to dislodge jihadi fighters. Following an internal investigation, the Australian Defence Forces said coalition raids against Islamic State group positions in the then-occupied northern Iraqi city on June 13, 2017 "may have caused civilian casualties". "The coalition assesses that between six and 18 civilians may have been killed," during strikes on the Al Shafaar neighbourhood. Air Marshal Mel Hupfeld indicated there was no firm information about the number of deaths or whether they came as a result of the Australian strike, or from other coalition members. The intense aerial bombardment to retake what had been Iraq's second-largest city has already been the subject of intense scrutiny, with the US-led coalition admitting over 1,100 civilian casualties. A total of 30,008 strikes against IS were carried out between August 2014 and the end of August 2018, with the Mosul campaign being particularly intense. Critics have alleged the coalition strategy leaned too much on overwhelming air power. While quicker and posing fewer risks for coalition forces, they allege it put civilians at greater risk. Monitoring group Airwars says the number of civilian deaths acknowledged by the coalition is well below the true toll of the bombing campaign, estimating that at least 7,468 civilians were killed. IS was known to hold civilians as human shields in a deliberate effort evade detection, deter air strikes and shape Western public opinion against the war. Hupfeld said the Australian strike was requested by Iraqi security forces and was in "full compliance with the law of armed conflict and applicable rules of engagement". "The Australian Defence Force takes all feasible precautions to minimise the risk of civilian casualties." Ahead of the strike, seven IS fighters were identified in a building and adjacent courtyard, armed with heavy weapons. They were hit with a "500lb precision guided munition" which "achieved the effect desired". Australia's defence forces said the civilian casualties were in a nearby building.

Australia admits 'may have killed' civilians in 2017 Mosul raid

In pics: Serena Williams knocked out of Australian Open

Australian paceman Peter Siddle, who has a brilliant run in the ongoing season of the Big Bash League, wants to make a comeback in Australia's T20 international team.

The 34-year-old said that he always had the skills of a T20I bowler but he never played enough so that he could cement his spot in the national side.

"I'd love to get back in the yellow-and-green for Australia in the shorter format. I think I did (always have T20 bowling skills) but I hadn't played enough to be able to bring them out," ICC quoted Siddle, as saying.

Talking about the prospects of getting a chance in the Australian Test team for their upcoming Ashes series, the right-arm bowler said that his good show in England while playing for Essex has increased his chances of getting opted for the prestigious Test series.

"Last year, playing a full season gave me an opportunity to train and prepare for it. If you go back to a couple of years ago, you'd probably think I'd run my course and might not get that opportunity again," he said."A good winter in England (with Essex) this year got me back in the frame.

I`ve been around the Test team for the whole summer - I`m thereabouts," he added. Ashes series is slated to be held from August 1 to September 16 in England.&nbsp;

Australian paceman Peter Siddle, who has a brilliant run in the ongoing season of the Big Bash League, wants to make a comeback in Australia's T20 international team.

Australian paceman Peter Siddle, who has a brilliant run in the ongoing season of the Big Bash League, wants to make a comeback in Australia's T20 international team. The 34-year-old said that he always had the skills of a T20I bowler but he never played enough so that he could cement his spot in the national side. "I'd love to get back in the yellow-and-green for Australia in the shorter format. I think I did (always have T20 bowling skills) but I hadn't played enough to be able to bring them out," ICC quoted Siddle, as saying. Talking about the prospects of getting a chance in the Australian Test team for their upcoming Ashes series, the right-arm bowler said that his good show in England while playing for Essex has increased his chances of getting opted for the prestigious Test series. "Last year, playing a full season gave me an opportunity to train and prepare for it. If you go back to a couple of years ago, you'd probably think I'd run my course and might not get that opportunity again," he said."A good winter in England (with Essex) this year got me back in the frame. I`ve been around the Test team for the whole summer - I`m thereabouts," he added. Ashes series is slated to be held from August 1 to September 16 in England.

Peter Siddle eyes Australian T20I berth

Former Australia captain Ricky&nbspPonting&nbsphas joined the Australian coaching staff for the side's five one-day internationals and one Twenty20 international game against England in June.

Ponting&nbspjoins former teammate Justin Langer, who was appointed coach of the team on a four-year term after Darren Lehmann resigned in the wake of a ball-tampering scandal in March.

"Ricky is one of the greats of the game, and since he was already in England doing some commentary we saw it as a great opportunity to have him join our team for this important series," Langer said in a statement.

Ponting&nbsphas served as assistant coach for the T20 side twice before, against Sri Lanka in 2017 and for the tri-series against New Zealand and England earlier this year.

He was also the head coach of the Delhi Daredevils side in the Indian Premier League this year.

"Ricky's knowledge of the game is second-to-none, and we know that his experiences, tactical expertise and leadership will be invaluable for this group," Langer added.

The three-time World Cup winner will begin his assignment on June 10, working around his commentary commitments.

Ponting has served as assistant coach for the T20 side twice before, against Sri Lanka in 2017 and for the tri-series against New Zealand and England earlier this year.

Former Australia captain Ricky&nbspPonting&nbsphas joined the Australian coaching staff for the side's five one-day internationals and one Twenty20 international game against England in June. Ponting&nbspjoins former teammate Justin Langer, who was appointed coach of the team on a four-year term after Darren Lehmann resigned in the wake of a ball-tampering scandal in March. "Ricky is one of the greats of the game, and since he was already in England doing some commentary we saw it as a great opportunity to have him join our team for this important series," Langer said in a statement. Ponting&nbsphas served as assistant coach for the T20 side twice before, against Sri Lanka in 2017 and for the tri-series against New Zealand and England earlier this year. He was also the head coach of the Delhi Daredevils side in the Indian Premier League this year. "Ricky's knowledge of the game is second-to-none, and we know that his experiences, tactical expertise and leadership will be invaluable for this group," Langer added. The three-time World Cup winner will begin his assignment on June 10, working around his commentary commitments.

Ricky Ponting joins Australian coaching staff for England tour

Third-seed Marin Cilic on Tuesday defeated the unseeded Australian James Duckworth in straight sets to progress through to the second round of the French Open.

"It`s not often we play in the rain, so it was a bit different... the balls were a little bit heavier, a little bit different, but that`s the special thing about the French Open," Cilic said after his win.&nbsp

Cilic, who reached his third major final in Melbourne this year, was pushed to seven games in the second and third sets, winning 6-3 7-5 7-6(4).&nbsp

The French Open is the only Grand Slam not to have a roofed court.

The Croatian would become only the 11th man in the Open era to reach the final of all four Grand Slams if he progresses through to the last two of this year's Coupe des Mousquetaires.&nbsp

Cilic was pushed to seven games in the second and third sets winning 6-3 7-5 7-6(4)

Third-seed Marin Cilic on Tuesday defeated the unseeded Australian James Duckworth in straight sets to progress through to the second round of the French Open. "It`s not often we play in the rain, so it was a bit different... the balls were a little bit heavier, a little bit different, but that`s the special thing about the French Open," Cilic said after his win. Cilic, who reached his third major final in Melbourne this year, was pushed to seven games in the second and third sets, winning 6-3 7-5 7-6(4). The French Open is the only Grand Slam not to have a roofed court. The Croatian would become only the 11th man in the Open era to reach the final of all four Grand Slams if he progresses through to the last two of this year's Coupe des Mousquetaires.

French Open: Marin Cilic marches into round two

Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc has been ruled out of the 11th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) due to a stress fracture in his leg.

His absence will be a major blow to the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), who are already reeling under pressure of having a weak bench strength.

The team is entering the XIth edition with only 19 players in its squad. &nbsp &nbsp

Starc was bought by Kolkata Knight Riders for a whopping Rs 9.4 crores at the IPL Player Auction in Bengaluru in January this year.

The franchise will soon have to look up for a good option to replace the pacer.&nbsp

The injury has also kept Starc out of Australia's fourth and final Test against South Africa in Johannesburg today.&nbsp

Confirming the news, Cricket Australia (CA) took to their Twitter handle and wrote that the left-armer has sustained a tibial bone stress in his right leg and that he would now head home after the series for further injury investigation and assessment.

The 11th edition of the IPL will start from April 7.&nbsp

KKR are scheduled to play their opening match against Royal Challengers Bangalore on April 8. 
&nbsp

The team is entering the XIth edition with only 19 players in its squad

Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc has been ruled out of the 11th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) due to a stress fracture in his leg. His absence will be a major blow to the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), who are already reeling under pressure of having a weak bench strength. The team is entering the XIth edition with only 19 players in its squad. Starc was bought by Kolkata Knight Riders for a whopping Rs 9.4 crores at the IPL Player Auction in Bengaluru in January this year. The franchise will soon have to look up for a good option to replace the pacer. The injury has also kept Starc out of Australia's fourth and final Test against South Africa in Johannesburg today. Confirming the news, Cricket Australia (CA) took to their Twitter handle and wrote that the left-armer has sustained a tibial bone stress in his right leg and that he would now head home after the series for further injury investigation and assessment. The 11th edition of the IPL will start from April 7. KKR are scheduled to play their opening match against Royal Challengers Bangalore on April 8.

IPL 2018: KKR's Mitchell Starc ruled out due to injury

Australian off-spinner Nathan Lyon has been charged 15 percent of his match fee for his cheeky celebration following the run out of South Africa batsman AB de Villiers by the International Cricket Council (ICC). He threw&nbsp;the ball at former South African skipper AB de Villiers which is declared as a breach of level one of its code of conduct as behaviour that was &quot;contrary to the spirit of the game&quot;. Nathan&nbsp;has had one demerit point added to his name. A total of four such demerit points will result in him missing a Test match.

Watch the video here:

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If I was an <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Australian?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Australian</a> or part of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Australiancricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Australiancricket</a> team I would be <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ashamed?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ashamed</a>. The <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/derro?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#derro</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NathanLyon?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NathanLyon</a> clearly throws the ball on AB and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DavidWarner?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DavidWarner</a> acts like an absolute <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/bogan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#bogan</a> that he is <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/maniac?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#maniac</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvsSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvsSA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/badsportsmen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#badsportsmen</a> #disgrace# <a href="https://t.co/6Cb8LMGXGs">pic.twitter.com/6Cb8LMGXGs</a>
&mdash; Br@t (@Mc_Allstar) <a href="https://twitter.com/Mc_Allstar/status/970698669900091392?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 5, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The incident occurred on the fourth day in the second innings of the first Test match at the Kingsmead Stadium in Durban on Sunday. De Villiers was run out for nought after being involved in a mix-up with opening batsman Aiden Markram, with Lyon, who had knocked off the bails, dropping the ball towards the sprawled batsman as he ran over to join ecstatic celebrations.

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Nathan Lyon has been fined after breaching the ICC Code of Conduct during the first Test against South Africa. 
 
STORY ➡️ <a href="https://t.co/zUEzQQBIzH">https://t.co/zUEzQQBIzH</a> <a href="https://t.co/rV8SWOMKkm">pic.twitter.com/rV8SWOMKkm</a>
&mdash; ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/970708948419571712?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 5, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Australia won the first match of a four-Test series by 118 runs on Monday&nbsp;

The bowler was said to have apologised to De Villiers and the pair were seen shaking hands while the teams warmed up on Monday.

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It didn&#39;t take too long for Australia to wrap up victory on day five of the first Test against South Africa.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvAUS</a> REPORT ➡️<a href="https://t.co/j4xPRt027s">https://t.co/j4xPRt027s</a> <a href="https://t.co/VbuB8q2eWd">pic.twitter.com/VbuB8q2eWd</a>
&mdash; ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/970637552288854016?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 5, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Nathan Lyon's behaviour has been declared as a breach of level one of ICC code of conduct as it was "contrary to the spirit of the game"

Australian off-spinner Nathan Lyon has been charged 15 percent of his match fee for his cheeky celebration following the run out of South Africa batsman AB de Villiers by the International Cricket Council (ICC). He threw the ball at former South African skipper AB de Villiers which is declared as a breach of level one of its code of conduct as behaviour that was "contrary to the spirit of the game". Nathan has had one demerit point added to his name. A total of four such demerit points will result in him missing a Test match. Watch the video here: If I was an #Australian or part of the #Australiancricket team I would be #ashamed. The #derro #NathanLyon clearly throws the ball on AB and #DavidWarner acts like an absolute #bogan that he is #maniac #AUSvsSA #badsportsmen #disgrace# pic.twitter.com/6Cb8LMGXGs — Br@t (@Mc_Allstar) March 5, 2018 × The incident occurred on the fourth day in the second innings of the first Test match at the Kingsmead Stadium in Durban on Sunday. De Villiers was run out for nought after being involved in a mix-up with opening batsman Aiden Markram, with Lyon, who had knocked off the bails, dropping the ball towards the sprawled batsman as he ran over to join ecstatic celebrations. Nathan Lyon has been fined after breaching the ICC Code of Conduct during the first Test against South Africa. STORY ➡️ https://t.co/zUEzQQBIzH pic.twitter.com/rV8SWOMKkm — ICC (@ICC) March 5, 2018 × Australia won the first match of a four-Test series by 118 runs on Monday The bowler was said to have apologised to De Villiers and the pair were seen shaking hands while the teams warmed up on Monday. It didn't take too long for Australia to wrap up victory on day five of the first Test against South Africa.#SAvAUS REPORT ➡️https://t.co/j4xPRt027s pic.twitter.com/VbuB8q2eWd — ICC (@ICC) March 5, 2018 ×

Australian bowler Nathan Lyon fined for 'disrespecting' AB de Villiers

Chung Hyeon became the first South Korean man ever to reach the round of 16 at the Australian Open with a five-set upset win over fourth seed Alexander Zverev on Saturday.

The 58th-ranked &nbsp;Chung beat a top-five ranked opponent for the first time with his 5-7, 7-6 (7/3), 2-6, 6-3, 6-0 victory in 3hr 22min on Rod Laver Arena.

He will face either six-time champion Novak Djokovic or Spaniard Albert Ramos-Vinolas in Monday&#39;s fourth round.

Chung&#39;s feat also makes him only the third South Korean player -- man or woman -- to reach the round of 16 at a Grand Slam.

&quot;It was really tough, he is a really good player and we know how to play each other,&quot; said the glasses-wearing 21-year-old, who trained in the heat of Thailand before coming to Melbourne.

&quot;I played Novak two or three years ago, so if he wins tonight I just want to enjoy things on the court.&quot;

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&quot;It was a really tough game against Alex Zverev... I&#39;m just trying to play 100% and that was the key today.&quot; 
 
What a performance from Hyeon Chung - his first win against top five opposition! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/01ADJcXoBu">pic.twitter.com/01ADJcXoBu</a>
&mdash; #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/954623497929613313?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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It was another disappointing exit from a Grand Slam for the highly-ranked Zverev, whose game fell apart in the final set and was issued with a warning for smashing his racquet in frustration after a service break.

While he won five titles and was one of just four players to beat Roger Federer last year, he has yet to get beyond the fourth round at a Grand Slam.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-simona-survives-an-epic-rally-beats-lauren-davis-4-6-6-4-15-13-30125" target="_blank">Australian Open: Simona survives epic rally, beats Lauren Davis 4-6, 6-4, 15-13</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-karolina-pliskova-madison-keys-enter-fourth-round-30123" target="_blank">Australian Open: Karolina Pliskova &amp; Madison Keys enter fourth round</a>

To rub salt in the wounds, it was a Zverev family double for Chung who eliminated older brother Mischa in the first round of the tournament.

Zverev got off to a quick start to hold three set points with a backhand crosscourt and took the opening set in 44 minutes when Chung netted a forehand.

But Chung, who defeated Russian Andrey Rublev to claim his first title at the NextGen ATP finals in Milan last year, levelled the set scores with a tiebreaker win after holding three set points when the German netted a forehand.

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Making history. 
 
Hyeon Chung becomes just the third Korean player to make the R16 at a Grand Slam, ousting No.4 seed Zverev 5-7 7-6(3) 2-6 6-3 6-0.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/szU7TOljXZ">pic.twitter.com/szU7TOljXZ</a>
&mdash; #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/954620600420507649?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Zverev hit the front with a break in the third game on the way to taking the third set but Chung would not go away.

The South Korean took the match into a fifth set with a booming ace and Zverev handed over a break in the opening game of the deciding set with a double fault on triple break point.

Zverev was given a racquet abuse warning by the chair umpire after slamming his racquet into the court in frustration and suffering a second service break to trail 3-0 as his game fell away.

&nbsp;

Hyeon Chung becomes the third Korean player to make the R16 at a Grand Slam, ousting No.4 seed Zverev 5-7, 7-6(3), 2-6, 6-3, 6-0

Chung Hyeon became the first South Korean man ever to reach the round of 16 at the Australian Open with a five-set upset win over fourth seed Alexander Zverev on Saturday. The 58th-ranked Chung beat a top-five ranked opponent for the first time with his 5-7, 7-6 (7/3), 2-6, 6-3, 6-0 victory in 3hr 22min on Rod Laver Arena. He will face either six-time champion Novak Djokovic or Spaniard Albert Ramos-Vinolas in Monday's fourth round. Chung's feat also makes him only the third South Korean player -- man or woman -- to reach the round of 16 at a Grand Slam. "It was really tough, he is a really good player and we know how to play each other," said the glasses-wearing 21-year-old, who trained in the heat of Thailand before coming to Melbourne. "I played Novak two or three years ago, so if he wins tonight I just want to enjoy things on the court." "It was a really tough game against Alex Zverev... I'm just trying to play 100% and that was the key today." What a performance from Hyeon Chung - his first win against top five opposition! #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/01ADJcXoBu — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 20, 2018 × It was another disappointing exit from a Grand Slam for the highly-ranked Zverev, whose game fell apart in the final set and was issued with a warning for smashing his racquet in frustration after a service break. While he won five titles and was one of just four players to beat Roger Federer last year, he has yet to get beyond the fourth round at a Grand Slam. Australian Open: Simona survives epic rally, beats Lauren Davis 4-6, 6-4, 15-13 Australian Open: Karolina Pliskova & Madison Keys enter fourth round To rub salt in the wounds, it was a Zverev family double for Chung who eliminated older brother Mischa in the first round of the tournament. Zverev got off to a quick start to hold three set points with a backhand crosscourt and took the opening set in 44 minutes when Chung netted a forehand. But Chung, who defeated Russian Andrey Rublev to claim his first title at the NextGen ATP finals in Milan last year, levelled the set scores with a tiebreaker win after holding three set points when the German netted a forehand. Making history. Hyeon Chung becomes just the third Korean player to make the R16 at a Grand Slam, ousting No.4 seed Zverev 5-7 7-6(3) 2-6 6-3 6-0.#AusOpen pic.twitter.com/szU7TOljXZ — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 20, 2018 × Zverev hit the front with a break in the third game on the way to taking the third set but Chung would not go away. The South Korean took the match into a fifth set with a booming ace and Zverev handed over a break in the opening game of the deciding set with a double fault on triple break point. Zverev was given a racquet abuse warning by the chair umpire after slamming his racquet into the court in frustration and suffering a second service break to trail 3-0 as his game fell away.

Australian Open: Hyeon Chung beats Alexander Zverev, enters R16

Lebanon&#39;s intelligence agency Monday banned Steven Spielberg&#39;s latest film&nbsp;&quot;The Post&quot;, and Australian drama &quot;Jungle&quot; to comply with a boycott of Israel.&nbsp;

An&nbsp;official from Lebanon&#39;s General Security authority told AFP,&nbsp;&quot;Screening of the film &#39;The Post&#39; has been banned&quot; and added that the film &quot; is blacklisted by the Arab League&#39;s boycott office, which Lebanon complies with.&quot;

The Hollywood director was&nbsp;blacklisted by the Cairo-based pan-Arab body after he donated&nbsp;$1 million to Israel during the 2006 war between the Jewish state and Lebanon.

The&nbsp;two countries are still officially at war.&nbsp;

&quot;The Post&quot; is a film starring Meryl Streep and Tom Hanks on the behind-the-scenes story of the 1971 publication by The Washington Post of the Pentagon Papers, which exposed the lies behind US involvement in the Vietnam War.

The other film that got censored was &quot;Jungle&quot;, a survival drama about Israeli adventurer Yossi Ghinsberg, who got lost in an uncharted part of the Bolivian Amazon in 1981. The film, starring Daniel Radcliffe, had been screening for two weeks in Lebanon but is now being pulled.&nbsp;

Lebanon&#39;s General Security behind the censorship not only keeps a control on the borders but is also responsible for censorship of films, plays, and books.&nbsp;

This is to comply with their boycott of Israel

Lebanon's intelligence agency Monday banned Steven Spielberg's latest film "The Post", and Australian drama "Jungle" to comply with a boycott of Israel. An official from Lebanon's General Security authority told AFP, "Screening of the film 'The Post' has been banned" and added that the film " is blacklisted by the Arab League's boycott office, which Lebanon complies with." The Hollywood director was blacklisted by the Cairo-based pan-Arab body after he donated $1 million to Israel during the 2006 war between the Jewish state and Lebanon. The two countries are still officially at war. "The Post" is a film starring Meryl Streep and Tom Hanks on the behind-the-scenes story of the 1971 publication by The Washington Post of the Pentagon Papers, which exposed the lies behind US involvement in the Vietnam War. The other film that got censored was "Jungle", a survival drama about Israeli adventurer Yossi Ghinsberg, who got lost in an uncharted part of the Bolivian Amazon in 1981. The film, starring Daniel Radcliffe, had been screening for two weeks in Lebanon but is now being pulled. Lebanon's General Security behind the censorship not only keeps a control on the borders but is also responsible for censorship of films, plays, and books.

Lebanon bans Steven Spielberg's film 'The Post' and Australian drama 'Jungle'

Indian batsman Cheteshwar Pujara jumped a couple of rungs to second, while skipper Virat Kohli held on to the fifth spot in the latest ICC rankings for Test batsmen, issued here today.

Pujara trails Australian captain Steve Smith, who has extended his lead at the top but the next four batsmen are separated by just 11 points in the latest rankings, the ICC said in a statement.

Pujara has returned to number-two ranking after scoring 143 in his side&#39;s huge victory by an innings and 239 runs against Sri Lanka in Nagpur.

He had first peaked to second following the Ranchi Test against Australia in March, while the last time he was second was following his 133 against Sri Lanka in Colombo in August.

Pujara has been rewarded with 22 points, lifting him from fourth to second on a career-high 888 points.

The 29-year-old now leads his fifth-ranked captain Kohli by 11 points. Kohli has vaulted from 817 points to 877 points after scoring his fifth career double-century in 62 Tests.

Smith, on the other hand, stroked an unbeaten 141, his 21st century in his 57th Test, which was the cornerstone of Australia&#39;s 10-wicket victory over England in the first Ashes Test.

For his performance, Smith has gained five points to rise to 941 points, making him joint-fifth in terms of the highest points tally in batting history in Tests behind Sir Don Bradman (961), Len Hutton (945), Jack Hobbs (942) and Ricky Ponting (942), and at par with Peter May (941).

England captain Joe Root is sitting third and New Zealand captain Kane Williamson is occupying the fourth spot, while sixth-ranked David Warner of Australia is another 51 points behind Kohli.

India opener Murali Vijay and middle-order batsman Rohit Sharma, who were the other centurions in the just-concluded Test, have also made impressive gains. Vijay has risen eight places to 28th position, while Rohit has shot up seven places to 46th spot.

Some of the leading batsmen heading in the wrong direction include KL Rahul (ninth, down by one), Ajinkya Rahane (15th, down by two), Dimuth Karunaratne (18th, down by one), and Shikhar Dhawan (29th, down by one).

In the bowlers&#39; rankings, Ravindra Jadeja has reclaimed the second position following his match figures of five for 84, while Mitchell Starc has returned to the top 10 in 10th position after his match figures of six for 128 helped him to gain three places.

Ravichandran Ashwin, who became the fastest man to 300 wickets in Tests, has consolidated his fourth position by gaining nine points, which helped him to be on 849 points.

The India off-spinner is now 42 points behind number-one ranked James Anderson, who has dropped five points after claiming two wickets in the Brisbane Test.

Other bowlers to improve their rankings include Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Ishant Sharma, who have moved up one place each to 28th and 30th respectively.

In the all-rounders&#39; rankings, Ashwin has returned to third place in the list which is headed by Shakib Al Hasan of Bangladesh.&nbsp;

Australia captain Steve Smith was at the no. 1 spot

Indian batsman Cheteshwar Pujara jumped a couple of rungs to second, while skipper Virat Kohli held on to the fifth spot in the latest ICC rankings for Test batsmen, issued here today. Pujara trails Australian captain Steve Smith, who has extended his lead at the top but the next four batsmen are separated by just 11 points in the latest rankings, the ICC said in a statement. Pujara has returned to number-two ranking after scoring 143 in his side's huge victory by an innings and 239 runs against Sri Lanka in Nagpur. He had first peaked to second following the Ranchi Test against Australia in March, while the last time he was second was following his 133 against Sri Lanka in Colombo in August. Pujara has been rewarded with 22 points, lifting him from fourth to second on a career-high 888 points. The 29-year-old now leads his fifth-ranked captain Kohli by 11 points. Kohli has vaulted from 817 points to 877 points after scoring his fifth career double-century in 62 Tests. Smith, on the other hand, stroked an unbeaten 141, his 21st century in his 57th Test, which was the cornerstone of Australia's 10-wicket victory over England in the first Ashes Test. For his performance, Smith has gained five points to rise to 941 points, making him joint-fifth in terms of the highest points tally in batting history in Tests behind Sir Don Bradman (961), Len Hutton (945), Jack Hobbs (942) and Ricky Ponting (942), and at par with Peter May (941). England captain Joe Root is sitting third and New Zealand captain Kane Williamson is occupying the fourth spot, while sixth-ranked David Warner of Australia is another 51 points behind Kohli. India opener Murali Vijay and middle-order batsman Rohit Sharma, who were the other centurions in the just-concluded Test, have also made impressive gains. Vijay has risen eight places to 28th position, while Rohit has shot up seven places to 46th spot. Some of the leading batsmen heading in the wrong direction include KL Rahul (ninth, down by one), Ajinkya Rahane (15th, down by two), Dimuth Karunaratne (18th, down by one), and Shikhar Dhawan (29th, down by one). In the bowlers' rankings, Ravindra Jadeja has reclaimed the second position following his match figures of five for 84, while Mitchell Starc has returned to the top 10 in 10th position after his match figures of six for 128 helped him to gain three places. Ravichandran Ashwin, who became the fastest man to 300 wickets in Tests, has consolidated his fourth position by gaining nine points, which helped him to be on 849 points. The India off-spinner is now 42 points behind number-one ranked James Anderson, who has dropped five points after claiming two wickets in the Brisbane Test. Other bowlers to improve their rankings include Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Ishant Sharma, who have moved up one place each to 28th and 30th respectively. In the all-rounders' rankings, Ashwin has returned to third place in the list which is headed by Shakib Al Hasan of Bangladesh.

ICC Test rankings: Pujara climbs to 2nd spot, Kohli stays at 5th

Australian cyclist Jack Bobridge, who won silver medals in the team pursuit at the last two&nbsp;Olympics, was arrested in Perth this week on charges of dealing in the ecstasy drug, local media reported on Friday.

Bobridge, who was forced into retirement last year because of the effects of rheumatoid arthritis, was arrested after police raided his home in the western Australian capital on Wednesday, the ABC reported.

&quot;The investigation led detectives to charge the 28-year-old man with two counts of sell and supply a trafficable quantity of MDMA and three counts of sell and supply MDMA,&quot; Perth police said in a statement to the national broadcaster.

Bobridge was bailed to appear at a Perth magistrates court to face the charges next month, ABC added.

In a highly successful career, Bobridge rode in four versions of the Giro d&#39;Italia and won the Australian road race national title for the second time in Ballarat in January 2016.

On the track, he competed in three&nbsp;Olympics, won three world championship gold medals, four Commonwealth Games titles and still holds the world record for the 4km individual pursuit with the time he set in Sydney in 2011.

Jack Bobridge arrested in Perth in the case of drug dealing

Australian cyclist Jack Bobridge, who won silver medals in the team pursuit at the last two Olympics, was arrested in Perth this week on charges of dealing in the ecstasy drug, local media reported on Friday. Bobridge, who was forced into retirement last year because of the effects of rheumatoid arthritis, was arrested after police raided his home in the western Australian capital on Wednesday, the ABC reported. "The investigation led detectives to charge the 28-year-old man with two counts of sell and supply a trafficable quantity of MDMA and three counts of sell and supply MDMA," Perth police said in a statement to the national broadcaster. Bobridge was bailed to appear at a Perth magistrates court to face the charges next month, ABC added. In a highly successful career, Bobridge rode in four versions of the Giro d'Italia and won the Australian road race national title for the second time in Ballarat in January 2016. On the track, he competed in three Olympics, won three world championship gold medals, four Commonwealth Games titles and still holds the world record for the 4km individual pursuit with the time he set in Sydney in 2011.

Olympic silver medalist arrested in drug dealing case

Australian MH370 search authorities are hopeful that a wing part found in Tanzania will shed light on how the flight crashed, amid a lack of public information on debris found a year ago.&nbsp; 
 
As the underwater hunt far off Australia&#39;s west coast draws to a close without any sign of the plane, there has been speculation that the flight&#39;s final resting place may be outside the current search zone in the southern Indian Ocean. The Malaysia Airlines jet was carrying 239 passengers and crew when it disappeared en route from Kuala Lumpur to Beijing on March 8, 2014.&nbsp; 
 
The first debris linked to MH370, a two-metre-long (almost seven-foot) wing part known as a flaperon, washed up on the French Indian Ocean island of Reunion a year ago. But it has remained in the hands of French investigators, leaving questions unanswered on how the airliner entered the ocean.&nbsp; 
 
&quot;We have also seen some analysis from the French that suggests that it&#39;s a possibility that (the flaperon) was in a deployed state,&quot; Peter Foley, the Australian Transport and Safety Bureau (ATSB)&#39;s head of MH370 search operations, told Channel Nine late Sunday. A deployed state, which means the flaperon was extended for landing, could suggest that someone was at the controls, the &#39;rogue pilot&#39; theory&nbsp;when the aircraft entered the water. 
 
Investigators have considered all scenarios, but alternative possibilities could potentially have debris fields three times the current search zone, ATSB&#39;s former chief Martin Dolan told AFP in March. The current area was defined under the &quot;most likely&quot; scenario that no-one was at the controls and the plane ran out of fuel. But Foley told the commercial broadcaster that if the pilot was still in control of the plane or control-ditched the aircraft, it could potentially have had an extended range of flight. 
 
A team of Italian scientists said last month the debris zone may be a further 500 kilometres (310 miles) north. Foley said he was hopeful the wing part found off Tanzania, which is in Canberra for analysis and was confirmed by Australia on Friday to be &quot;highly likely&quot; from MH370, could reveal how the plane crashed. 
 
&quot;We are looking to see whether or not we can work out whether that flap was extended at the end of flight, it suggests a different end-of-flight scenario,&quot; he said. The Australian, Malaysian and Chinese governments, where most of the passengers were from, have agreed that when the target area is fully searched, expected around December, they will pull the plug unless &quot;credible new information&quot; emerges. 
 
(AFP)

The wing part, in Canberra for analysis, was confirmed by Australia to be 'highly likely' from MH370. It could reveal how the plane crashed

Australian MH370 search authorities are hopeful that a wing part found in Tanzania will shed light on how the flight crashed, amid a lack of public information on debris found a year ago. As the underwater hunt far off Australia's west coast draws to a close without any sign of the plane, there has been speculation that the flight's final resting place may be outside the current search zone in the southern Indian Ocean. The Malaysia Airlines jet was carrying 239 passengers and crew when it disappeared en route from Kuala Lumpur to Beijing on March 8, 2014. The first debris linked to MH370, a two-metre-long (almost seven-foot) wing part known as a flaperon, washed up on the French Indian Ocean island of Reunion a year ago. But it has remained in the hands of French investigators, leaving questions unanswered on how the airliner entered the ocean. "We have also seen some analysis from the French that suggests that it's a possibility that (the flaperon) was in a deployed state," Peter Foley, the Australian Transport and Safety Bureau (ATSB)'s head of MH370 search operations, told Channel Nine late Sunday. A deployed state, which means the flaperon was extended for landing, could suggest that someone was at the controls, the 'rogue pilot' theory when the aircraft entered the water. Investigators have considered all scenarios, but alternative possibilities could potentially have debris fields three times the current search zone, ATSB's former chief Martin Dolan told AFP in March. The current area was defined under the "most likely" scenario that no-one was at the controls and the plane ran out of fuel. But Foley told the commercial broadcaster that if the pilot was still in control of the plane or control-ditched the aircraft, it could potentially have had an extended range of flight. A team of Italian scientists said last month the debris zone may be a further 500 kilometres (310 miles) north. Foley said he was hopeful the wing part found off Tanzania, which is in Canberra for analysis and was confirmed by Australia on Friday to be "highly likely" from MH370, could reveal how the plane crashed. "We are looking to see whether or not we can work out whether that flap was extended at the end of flight, it suggests a different end-of-flight scenario," he said. The Australian, Malaysian and Chinese governments, where most of the passengers were from, have agreed that when the target area is fully searched, expected around December, they will pull the plug unless "credible new information" emerges. (AFP)

New wing part found off Tanzania lends hope to Australian MH370 search authorities

Serena Williams has history in her sights, as the defending champion plots to avenge one of the most painful defeats of her career by beating Angelique Kerber in Saturday&#39;s Wimbledon final. Williams suffered a stunning loss against Kerber in the Australian Open final in January, and the rivals will face off for the first time since then when they slug it out for the Wimbledon title. 
 
There was further frustrations for Serena when she lost the French Open final to Garbine Muguruza last month. But the 34-year-old has been revitalised at the All England Club and, after taking just 48 minutes to crush Elena Vesnina in Wimbledon&#39;s quickest-ever semi-final, she has the chance to finally equal Steffi Graf&#39;s Open era record of 22 major titles by lifting the Venus Rosewater Dish for a seventh time. 
 
Making history at Kerber&#39;s&nbsp;expense would be especially sweet, even more so after the fourth seed defeated Serena&#39;s sister Venus in the semi-finals, and Williams says she has learnt the lessons of Australia. &quot;Obviously it&#39;s significant that she beat&nbsp;me in Australia because that&#39;s the last time we played,&quot; Serena said. 
 
&quot;I made a lot of errors. She made little to no unforced errors. I felt like she played great. She was fearless. That&#39;s something I learned. When I go into a final, I too need to be fearless like she was.&nbsp;It was inspiring afterwards to realise there&#39;s a lot of things that I need to improve on.&quot; 
 
Since failing to complete a calendar Grand Slam last year, Serena has repeatedly had her hunger for more success questioned. But, having reached a ninth Wimbledon final and 28th Grand Slam, Williams insists she is still motivated. 
 
&quot;Yeah, I have no hunger anymore. Yeah, right,&quot; Serena said in a defiant press conference after her demolition of Vesnina. &quot;I mean, I think for anyone else in this whole planet, reaching the final would be a wonderful accomplishment. For me, it&#39;s not enough. But I think that&#39;s what makes me different. That&#39;s what makes me Serena. For me, it&#39;s about obviously holding the trophy and winning, which would make it a better accomplishment for me.&quot; 
 
In a combative mood with the media, Serena was quick to quash suggestions the pressure of trying to make history had been responsible for her failure to win a Grand Slam since last year&#39;s Wimbledon. 
 
&quot;My goal has never been 22. I don&#39;t talk about that anymore,&quot; she snapped. &quot;I love what I do. I work hard at what I do. I&#39;m extremely passionate. That&#39;s just the kind of something that keeps me going.&quot; Asked where she ranked among the great female athletes, Williams reframed the question. 
 
&quot;I prefer one of the greatest athletes of all time,&quot; she said with not a trace of a smile. Fortunately for fans hoping for a drama-filled final, Kerber isn&#39;t the type to back down in the face of Serena&#39;s aggression. The 28-year-old in her first Wimbledon final and second major title match, couldn&#39;t be&nbsp;in better form as she tries to become the first German woman to win Wimbledon since her idol Graf in 1996. 
 
&quot;I told myself that I would like to play better in the big tournaments. I just believe much more in myself, especially after Australia,&quot; Kerber said. 
 
&quot;I&#39;m a little bit more relaxed when I&#39;m going to the tournaments.&nbsp;I know I can trust my tennis.&quot;&nbsp;After sweeping to the final without dropping&nbsp;a set, Kerber is guaranteed to reach a career-high second in the rankings next week. 
 
&quot;I will go out there with a lot of confidence.&nbsp;I&#39;ll show her I&#39;m there to win. I have to play one of my best matches,&quot; Kerber said. 
The German added: &quot;I expect a really tough match. I know that she will go out and try to beat me, especially because she lost against me in Australia.&nbsp;On grass she is always dangerous. She won here so many times, she will go for it. I know this. I know I have to play my best tennis.&quot; 
 
(AFP)

The defending champ can avenge her painful loss in last year's Australian open, and tie her idol Steffi Graf's record of 22 Grand Slam wins

Serena Williams has history in her sights, as the defending champion plots to avenge one of the most painful defeats of her career by beating Angelique Kerber in Saturday's Wimbledon final. Williams suffered a stunning loss against Kerber in the Australian Open final in January, and the rivals will face off for the first time since then when they slug it out for the Wimbledon title. There was further frustrations for Serena when she lost the French Open final to Garbine Muguruza last month. But the 34-year-old has been revitalised at the All England Club and, after taking just 48 minutes to crush Elena Vesnina in Wimbledon's quickest-ever semi-final, she has the chance to finally equal Steffi Graf's Open era record of 22 major titles by lifting the Venus Rosewater Dish for a seventh time. Making history at Kerber's expense would be especially sweet, even more so after the fourth seed defeated Serena's sister Venus in the semi-finals, and Williams says she has learnt the lessons of Australia. "Obviously it's significant that she beat me in Australia because that's the last time we played," Serena said. "I made a lot of errors. She made little to no unforced errors. I felt like she played great. She was fearless. That's something I learned. When I go into a final, I too need to be fearless like she was. It was inspiring afterwards to realise there's a lot of things that I need to improve on." Since failing to complete a calendar Grand Slam last year, Serena has repeatedly had her hunger for more success questioned. But, having reached a ninth Wimbledon final and 28th Grand Slam, Williams insists she is still motivated. "Yeah, I have no hunger anymore. Yeah, right," Serena said in a defiant press conference after her demolition of Vesnina. "I mean, I think for anyone else in this whole planet, reaching the final would be a wonderful accomplishment. For me, it's not enough. But I think that's what makes me different. That's what makes me Serena. For me, it's about obviously holding the trophy and winning, which would make it a better accomplishment for me." In a combative mood with the media, Serena was quick to quash suggestions the pressure of trying to make history had been responsible for her failure to win a Grand Slam since last year's Wimbledon. "My goal has never been 22. I don't talk about that anymore," she snapped. "I love what I do. I work hard at what I do. I'm extremely passionate. That's just the kind of something that keeps me going." Asked where she ranked among the great female athletes, Williams reframed the question. "I prefer one of the greatest athletes of all time," she said with not a trace of a smile. Fortunately for fans hoping for a drama-filled final, Kerber isn't the type to back down in the face of Serena's aggression. The 28-year-old in her first Wimbledon final and second major title match, couldn't be in better form as she tries to become the first German woman to win Wimbledon since her idol Graf in 1996. "I told myself that I would like to play better in the big tournaments. I just believe much more in myself, especially after Australia," Kerber said. "I'm a little bit more relaxed when I'm going to the tournaments. I know I can trust my tennis." After sweeping to the final without dropping a set, Kerber is guaranteed to reach a career-high second in the rankings next week. "I will go out there with a lot of confidence. I'll show her I'm there to win. I have to play one of my best matches," Kerber said. The German added: "I expect a really tough match. I know that she will go out and try to beat me, especially because she lost against me in Australia. On grass she is always dangerous. She won here so many times, she will go for it. I know this. I know I have to play my best tennis." (AFP)

Serena Williams can make history by beating Kerber in Saturday's Wimbledon finals

Embattled Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull appeared likely to retain power after gaining the support of a key independent on Thursday, although the closeness of the vote signalled more tough political and economic times ahead. 
 
There were signs that the political instability after Saturday&#39;s cliffhanger election was beginning to take its toll on the Australian economy, with Standard and Poor cutting Australia&#39;s credit rating outlook to negative from stable, threatening a downgrade of its coveted triple A status. 
 
Turnbull flew to northern Queensland state to win reluctant support from Bob Katter, a maverick former member of the ruling conservative coalition who is now a potential kingmaker if Turnbull is unable to win the 76 lower house seats needed to form the government. 
 
&quot;Today we are announcing our support ... for a Turnbull government. I do so with no great enthusiasm,&quot; Katter told reporters. &quot;I will maintain my right to change at any point of time in the future.&quot; 
 
Katter&#39;s support gives Turnbull&#39;s coalition a total of 74 seats, according to the latest Australian Broadcasting Corp. projections, as vote counting continues. 
 
Labor is projected to win 66 seats, meaning they would need to win the six seats still being counted and do deals with all the four remaining independents to form government - a scenario considered extremely unlikely by pollsters. 
 
&quot;I remain confident that we will form a government, and we will unite the parliament as far as we are able to,&quot; Turnbull told reporters after meeting Katter. 
 
&quot;We will unite the nation in a common purpose to continue to ensure that we have strong economic growth,&quot; he said. 
 
Turnbull, however, will realistically only scrape through with the slimmest of margins and faces an even more hostile upper house Senate, making it difficult for him to pass planned economic reforms. 
 
&#39;Diminished authority&#39; 
 
That point was rammed home by Labor leader Bill Shorten, who acknowledged the coalition would most likely win, but &quot;with a diminished authority, diminished mandate and a very divided political party&quot;. 
 
&quot;If Mister Turnbull is dragged across the line narrowly, his problems and Australia&#39;s are only just beginning,&quot; Shorten said in Perth. 
 
The Australia dollar fell half a US cent after S&amp;P&#39;s announcement, which cited concerns the coalition government would be hampered in its plans to return to budget surplus as it struggles to form a majority government. 
 
&quot;I think what the Australian people want to be assured of today is that there is a clear plan, should we be able to form government, to maintain the fiscal health of this country and that is what the agencies are saying is necessary,&quot; treasurer Scott Morrison told reporters soon after the S&amp;P announcement. 
 
Turnbull&#39;s gamble in calling an election, ostensibly to clear the upper house Senate of what he saw as obstructive minor parties, backfired badly with a much bigger swing to the centre-left Labor opposition than expected. 
 
It also saw minor parties and independents become even more powerful, making it less likely that Turnbull will be able to push his reformist economic agenda, which includes a A$50 billion ($37.6 billion) corporate tax break over 10 years, through an intransigent upper house. 
 
That places Katter and centrist Nick Xenaphon as potential kingmakers with team members in both houses. Two other lower house independents, Andrew Wilkie and Cathy McGowan, have ruled out any deals with the government. 
 
(Reuters)

Bob Katter from Queensland gives a reluctant nod to support Turnbull, warns that he may change his stand anytime in the future

Embattled Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull appeared likely to retain power after gaining the support of a key independent on Thursday, although the closeness of the vote signalled more tough political and economic times ahead. There were signs that the political instability after Saturday's cliffhanger election was beginning to take its toll on the Australian economy, with Standard and Poor cutting Australia's credit rating outlook to negative from stable, threatening a downgrade of its coveted triple A status. Turnbull flew to northern Queensland state to win reluctant support from Bob Katter, a maverick former member of the ruling conservative coalition who is now a potential kingmaker if Turnbull is unable to win the 76 lower house seats needed to form the government. "Today we are announcing our support ... for a Turnbull government. I do so with no great enthusiasm," Katter told reporters. "I will maintain my right to change at any point of time in the future." Katter's support gives Turnbull's coalition a total of 74 seats, according to the latest Australian Broadcasting Corp. projections, as vote counting continues. Labor is projected to win 66 seats, meaning they would need to win the six seats still being counted and do deals with all the four remaining independents to form government - a scenario considered extremely unlikely by pollsters. "I remain confident that we will form a government, and we will unite the parliament as far as we are able to," Turnbull told reporters after meeting Katter. "We will unite the nation in a common purpose to continue to ensure that we have strong economic growth," he said. Turnbull, however, will realistically only scrape through with the slimmest of margins and faces an even more hostile upper house Senate, making it difficult for him to pass planned economic reforms. 'Diminished authority' That point was rammed home by Labor leader Bill Shorten, who acknowledged the coalition would most likely win, but "with a diminished authority, diminished mandate and a very divided political party". "If Mister Turnbull is dragged across the line narrowly, his problems and Australia's are only just beginning," Shorten said in Perth. The Australia dollar fell half a US cent after S&P's announcement, which cited concerns the coalition government would be hampered in its plans to return to budget surplus as it struggles to form a majority government. "I think what the Australian people want to be assured of today is that there is a clear plan, should we be able to form government, to maintain the fiscal health of this country and that is what the agencies are saying is necessary," treasurer Scott Morrison told reporters soon after the S&P announcement. Turnbull's gamble in calling an election, ostensibly to clear the upper house Senate of what he saw as obstructive minor parties, backfired badly with a much bigger swing to the centre-left Labor opposition than expected. It also saw minor parties and independents become even more powerful, making it less likely that Turnbull will be able to push his reformist economic agenda, which includes a A$50 billion ($37.6 billion) corporate tax break over 10 years, through an intransigent upper house. That places Katter and centrist Nick Xenaphon as potential kingmakers with team members in both houses. Two other lower house independents, Andrew Wilkie and Cathy McGowan, have ruled out any deals with the government. (Reuters)

Australian PM wins key support, edges closer to forming government

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