Actor Damian Lewis, author Ian Rankin and former Northern Ireland first minister Arlene Foster were among more than 1,100 people recognised by Britain's Queen Elizabeth in her annual birthday honours.

The list, which is issued to mark the 96-year-old monarch's official birthday, honours recipients for their "outstanding"&nbsp;contributions; most awards recognise public service or community work.

This year's honours come ahead of four days of national celebration, beginning on Thursday, to mark Elizabeth's 70 years on the throne.

"This historic Platinum Jubilee is not only a celebration of the monarch but of the qualities she possesses,"&nbsp;Prime Minister Boris Johnson said. "The honours she confers this week reflect many of those qualities that have been invaluable from all different walks of life and to communities across the UK."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/queen-elizabeth-iis-70-years-on-the-throne-key-moments-of-her-life-450476#1952-princess-to-queen-450467">Queen Elizabeth's Platinum Jubilee: Key moments from her life</a>

Lewis, who won a Golden Globe for his role in the TV drama 'Homeland', was made a CBE (Commander of the Order of the British Empire) for services both to drama and to charity for initiating a campaign with his late wife Helen McCrory to raise 1 million pounds to provide food for health service workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Foster, who served as the first minister in the British province between 2016 and 2021, was among politicians to be honoured, and becomes a dame, while crime-writer Ian Rankin, creator of the acclaimed Inspector Rebus series, receives a knighthood.

Previously knighted author Salman Rushdie and renowned illustrator Quentin Blake, best known for his work in Roald Dahl`s books for children, were made Companions of Honour, of which there are only 65 at any one time.

From the world of sport, former England soccer player Rio Ferdinand was made an OBE (Officer of the Order of the British Empire), while Wales soccer captain Gareth Bale, Liverpool stalwart James Milner and England cricketer Moeen Ali were all made MBEs (Members of the Order of the British Empire).

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Britain's gold-medal winning Olympic women's curling team also received OBEs.

Elisabeth Murdoch, the daughter of media baron Rupert Murdoch and founder of two successful independent TV production companies, was given a CBE for her work with Arts Council England.

Among the 1,134 people to receive honours was Angela Redgrave, founder and principal of the Bristol School of Dancing, who was awarded a British Empire Medal, and at 104 was the oldest recipient on the list.

Actor Damian Lewis, author Ian Rankin and former Northern Ireland first minister Arlene Foster were among more than 1,100 people recognised by Britain's Queen Elizabeth in her annual birthday honours.

Actor Damian Lewis, author Ian Rankin and former Northern Ireland first minister Arlene Foster were among more than 1,100 people recognised by Britain's Queen Elizabeth in her annual birthday honours. The list, which is issued to mark the 96-year-old monarch's official birthday, honours recipients for their "outstanding" contributions; most awards recognise public service or community work. This year's honours come ahead of four days of national celebration, beginning on Thursday, to mark Elizabeth's 70 years on the throne. "This historic Platinum Jubilee is not only a celebration of the monarch but of the qualities she possesses," Prime Minister Boris Johnson said. "The honours she confers this week reflect many of those qualities that have been invaluable from all different walks of life and to communities across the UK." Also Read: Queen Elizabeth's Platinum Jubilee: Key moments from her life Lewis, who won a Golden Globe for his role in the TV drama 'Homeland', was made a CBE (Commander of the Order of the British Empire) for services both to drama and to charity for initiating a campaign with his late wife Helen McCrory to raise 1 million pounds to provide food for health service workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Foster, who served as the first minister in the British province between 2016 and 2021, was among politicians to be honoured, and becomes a dame, while crime-writer Ian Rankin, creator of the acclaimed Inspector Rebus series, receives a knighthood. Previously knighted author Salman Rushdie and renowned illustrator Quentin Blake, best known for his work in Roald Dahl`s books for children, were made Companions of Honour, of which there are only 65 at any one time. From the world of sport, former England soccer player Rio Ferdinand was made an OBE (Officer of the Order of the British Empire), while Wales soccer captain Gareth Bale, Liverpool stalwart James Milner and England cricketer Moeen Ali were all made MBEs (Members of the Order of the British Empire). Also Read: BTS, K-Pop supergroup, meets Biden, drop by during White House press briefing Britain's gold-medal winning Olympic women's curling team also received OBEs. Elisabeth Murdoch, the daughter of media baron Rupert Murdoch and founder of two successful independent TV production companies, was given a CBE for her work with Arts Council England. Among the 1,134 people to receive honours was Angela Redgrave, founder and principal of the Bristol School of Dancing, who was awarded a British Empire Medal, and at 104 was the oldest recipient on the list.

Actor Damian Lewis and former Northern Ireland leader honoured by Queen Elizabeth

Imagine surviving on Chips for twenty-plus years of your life. Seems impossible, doesn't it? But this is the reality of 25-year-old Zoe Sandler, a resident of Coventry, England.

Metro reports that Sandler has survived on her cheese and onion chips for 23 years of her life.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kinder-recalls-3000-tonnes-of-chocolate-over-salmonella-fears-482523" hreflang="en">Kinder recalls 3,000 tonnes of chocolate over Salmonella fears</a>

Zoe exclusively ate a staple diet of buttered white bread sandwiches made with her favourite chips from a brand called Walker.

Recently diagnosed with MS or Multiple sclerosis, Zoe decided she needs to get healthier. The fussy eater then sought help from David Kilmurry, a hypnotherapist.

Watch |&nbsp;Scientists in Japan develop robotic 'sixth finger' for human augmentation

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A warehouse operative by profession, she was found to have avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID). Following a two-hour hypnotherapy session, Sandler was finally able to enjoy her first taste of fruits and vegetables.

Zoe is soon to be married and after the breakthrough, she celebrated that now she won't only be eating crisp sandwiches on her wedding day.

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The Sun reported the bride to be as saying that her parents tried to make her eat other food as a child, but she would just refuse to eat anything.

She would at times experiment with other chips flavours and eat dry cereal because their texture wouldn't bother her, however, even as a child, she could only recollect eating the same crisp sandwiches at school.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Imagine surviving on Chips for twenty-plus years of your life. Seems impossible, doesn't it? But this is the reality of 25-year-old Zoe Sandler, a resident of Coventry, England.

Imagine surviving on Chips for twenty-plus years of your life. Seems impossible, doesn't it? But this is the reality of 25-year-old Zoe Sandler, a resident of Coventry, England. Metro reports that Sandler has survived on her cheese and onion chips for 23 years of her life. Also read | Kinder recalls 3,000 tonnes of chocolate over Salmonella fears Zoe exclusively ate a staple diet of buttered white bread sandwiches made with her favourite chips from a brand called Walker. Recently diagnosed with MS or Multiple sclerosis, Zoe decided she needs to get healthier. The fussy eater then sought help from David Kilmurry, a hypnotherapist. Watch | Scientists in Japan develop robotic 'sixth finger' for human augmentation A warehouse operative by profession, she was found to have avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID). Following a two-hour hypnotherapy session, Sandler was finally able to enjoy her first taste of fruits and vegetables. Zoe is soon to be married and after the breakthrough, she celebrated that now she won't only be eating crisp sandwiches on her wedding day. Also read | New Zealand: Grandmother converts 29-year-old car into homemade solar-powered vehicle for $24,000 The Sun reported the bride to be as saying that her parents tried to make her eat other food as a child, but she would just refuse to eat anything. She would at times experiment with other chips flavours and eat dry cereal because their texture wouldn't bother her, however, even as a child, she could only recollect eating the same crisp sandwiches at school. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION LIVE HERE: You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UK woman survives two decades only on chips. This is her story

Britain's health authorities are investigating four more cases of rare viral monkeypox infection which have been diagnosed in England taking the total confirmed cases since May 6 to seven.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said investigations were underway to establish links between the latest four cases who appear to have been infected in London and do not have known connections with the other three cases.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-health-officials-confirm-two-more-cases-of-rare-monkeypox-infection-479068">British health officials confirm two more cases of rare monkeypox infection</a>

The latest four cases have no links to travel to a country where monkeypox is endemic and exactly where and how they got infected remains under investigation, including whether they have further links to each other, the agency said.

Monkeypox is a rare viral infection similar to human smallpox, which was eradicated in 1980. Although monkeypox is much milder than smallpox, with most infected people recovering within a few weeks, it can in rare cases be fatal.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Boris Johnson plans to cut 90,000 government jobs

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All four of the new cases self-identify as gay, bi-sexual or other men who have sex with men, the UKHSA said. They have the West African clade of the virus, which is mild compared to the Central African one, it said.

"This is rare and unusual," said UKHSA chief medial officer Susan Hopkins in the statement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bank-of-england-warns-of-apocalyptic-food-prices-due-to-ongoing-russia-ukraine-conflict-479760">Bank of England warns of 'apocalyptic' food prices due to ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict</a>

"UKHSA is rapidly investigating the source of these infections because the evidence suggests that there may be transmission of the monkeypox virus in the community, spread by close contact."

She said the agency is urging men who are gay and bisexual to be aware of any unusual rashes or lesions and to contact a sexual health service without delay.

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Britain's health authorities are investigating four more cases of rare viral monkeypox infection which have been diagnosed in England taking the total confirmed cases since May 6 to seven.

Britain's health authorities are investigating four more cases of rare viral monkeypox infection which have been diagnosed in England taking the total confirmed cases since May 6 to seven. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said investigations were underway to establish links between the latest four cases who appear to have been infected in London and do not have known connections with the other three cases. Also read | British health officials confirm two more cases of rare monkeypox infection The latest four cases have no links to travel to a country where monkeypox is endemic and exactly where and how they got infected remains under investigation, including whether they have further links to each other, the agency said. Monkeypox is a rare viral infection similar to human smallpox, which was eradicated in 1980. Although monkeypox is much milder than smallpox, with most infected people recovering within a few weeks, it can in rare cases be fatal. Watch | Gravitas: Boris Johnson plans to cut 90,000 government jobs All four of the new cases self-identify as gay, bi-sexual or other men who have sex with men, the UKHSA said. They have the West African clade of the virus, which is mild compared to the Central African one, it said. "This is rare and unusual," said UKHSA chief medial officer Susan Hopkins in the statement. Also read | Bank of England warns of 'apocalyptic' food prices due to ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict "UKHSA is rapidly investigating the source of these infections because the evidence suggests that there may be transmission of the monkeypox virus in the community, spread by close contact." She said the agency is urging men who are gay and bisexual to be aware of any unusual rashes or lesions and to contact a sexual health service without delay. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

England detects four more cases of monkeypox infection

Stonehenge in itself is a mystery. The 5000-year-old structure in England baffles us as to how ancient humans would have been able to arrange stone slabs weighing tonnes, without any of the modern machinery. Some even say that only aliens are capable of building such a structure.

Now a network of mysterious pits has been found associated with Stonehenge. The pits were revealed after an archaeological 'biopsy' of the region surrounding Stonehenge. This study is the largest electromagnetic induction survey of the region.

The survey has revealed hundreds of large pits. Each of these pits is 2.4 meters (7.8 ft) wide. Scientists think that at least some of these pits are human-made.

"By combining new geophysical survey techniques with coring, and pinpoint excavation, the team has revealed some of the earliest evidence of human activity yet unearthed in the Stonehenge landscape," says archaeologist Nick Snashall, who works for the Stonehenge &amp; Avebury World Heritage Site. Snashall was quoted by University of Birmingham.

There are no clear and decisive clues as to what was the exact use of these pits. Scientists have not yet been able to pinpoint the utilitarian purpose of these pits. But they think that pits were associated with "long-term ceremonial structuring" of Stonehenge.

Decode the geostrategy, diplomacy, and ideologies of the world’s unending wars. Catch our special series ‘World at War’ every Saturday at 8:30 PM IST and Sunday at 10:30 PM IST only on WION.

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Stonehenge in itself is a mystery. The 5000-year-old structure in England baffles us as to how ancient humans would have been able to arrange stone slabs weighing tonnes, without any of the modern machinery.

Stonehenge in itself is a mystery. The 5000-year-old structure in England baffles us as to how ancient humans would have been able to arrange stone slabs weighing tonnes, without any of the modern machinery. Some even say that only aliens are capable of building such a structure. Now a network of mysterious pits has been found associated with Stonehenge. The pits were revealed after an archaeological 'biopsy' of the region surrounding Stonehenge. This study is the largest electromagnetic induction survey of the region. The survey has revealed hundreds of large pits. Each of these pits is 2.4 meters (7.8 ft) wide. Scientists think that at least some of these pits are human-made. "By combining new geophysical survey techniques with coring, and pinpoint excavation, the team has revealed some of the earliest evidence of human activity yet unearthed in the Stonehenge landscape," says archaeologist Nick Snashall, who works for the Stonehenge & Avebury World Heritage Site. Snashall was quoted by University of Birmingham. There are no clear and decisive clues as to what was the exact use of these pits. Scientists have not yet been able to pinpoint the utilitarian purpose of these pits. But they think that pits were associated with "long-term ceremonial structuring" of Stonehenge. Decode the geostrategy, diplomacy, and ideologies of the world’s unending wars. Catch our special series ‘World at War’ every Saturday at 8:30 PM IST and Sunday at 10:30 PM IST only on WION. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Mysterious network of pits found near Stonehenge in England

Brendon McCullum has reportedly informed Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) that he will be stepping down as the head coach of the franchise following the conclusion of the ongoing season. McCullum has emerged as one of the favourites to take over as the new head coach of the England Test team.

As per BBC and reports in the British media, McCullum is likely to replace Chris Silverwood as the new Test coach of England and an official announcement is expected this week. Silverwood was fired by England earlier this year after their humiliating 4-0 drubbing at the hands of Australia in the Ashes 2021-22.

As per a report in the Indian Express, McCullum recently informed about his plans during a team meeting and revealed he will be taking over as coach of the England national team.&nbsp;

“He informed us that he won’t be part of KKR going ahead as he will be taking up a job as England cricket team coach. He informed us during a team meeting a few days ago,” a KKR insider was quoted as saying by Indian Express.

McCullum, who retired from cricket all forms of cricket in 2019, had taken over as the head coach of the Kolkata Knight Riders in August 2019. He was also appointed as the head coach of Caribbean Premier League franchise Trinbago Knight Riders in the same year.

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While he has coached teams in franchise cricket, McCullum is yet to coach an international team and will begin his coaching journey in international cricket with England. Under McCullum, KKR have failed to win the IPL title. They came close last season by reaching the final in IPL 2020 but lost against CSK to miss out on the trophy.

In the ongoing IPL 2022, KKR has struggled for consistency but have managed to remain alive in the race for playoffs with five wins in 12 matches in the competition so far. KKR have an outside chance of making it to the playoffs this season if they manage to win their remaining two games by a big margin.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-gave-up-were-weak-gautam-gambhir-delivers-strong-speech-in-dressing-room-after-lsg-lose-to-gt-478112">'We gave up &amp; were weak': Gambhir delivers strong speech in dressing room after LSG lose to GT</a>

McCullum, who captained New Zealand in all three formats and is regarded as one of the greatest Kiwi captains of all time, will have his first Test assignment as England coach against the Black Caps. England are scheduled to host New Zealand in a three-match Test series at home which will be the first big challenge for new captain Ben Stokes and coach McCullum.

&nbsp;

Brendon McCullum has reportedly informed Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) that he will be stepping down as the head coach of the franchise following the conclusion of the ongoing season.

Brendon McCullum has reportedly informed Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) that he will be stepping down as the head coach of the franchise following the conclusion of the ongoing season. McCullum has emerged as one of the favourites to take over as the new head coach of the England Test team. As per BBC and reports in the British media, McCullum is likely to replace Chris Silverwood as the new Test coach of England and an official announcement is expected this week. Silverwood was fired by England earlier this year after their humiliating 4-0 drubbing at the hands of Australia in the Ashes 2021-22. As per a report in the Indian Express, McCullum recently informed about his plans during a team meeting and revealed he will be taking over as coach of the England national team. “He informed us that he won’t be part of KKR going ahead as he will be taking up a job as England cricket team coach. He informed us during a team meeting a few days ago,” a KKR insider was quoted as saying by Indian Express. McCullum, who retired from cricket all forms of cricket in 2019, had taken over as the head coach of the Kolkata Knight Riders in August 2019. He was also appointed as the head coach of Caribbean Premier League franchise Trinbago Knight Riders in the same year. Also Read: 'He is a loving guy': Pakistan star Rizwan lauds Cheteshwar Pujara after playing together for Sussex While he has coached teams in franchise cricket, McCullum is yet to coach an international team and will begin his coaching journey in international cricket with England. Under McCullum, KKR have failed to win the IPL title. They came close last season by reaching the final in IPL 2020 but lost against CSK to miss out on the trophy. In the ongoing IPL 2022, KKR has struggled for consistency but have managed to remain alive in the race for playoffs with five wins in 12 matches in the competition so far. KKR have an outside chance of making it to the playoffs this season if they manage to win their remaining two games by a big margin. Also Read: 'We gave up & were weak': Gambhir delivers strong speech in dressing room after LSG lose to GT McCullum, who captained New Zealand in all three formats and is regarded as one of the greatest Kiwi captains of all time, will have his first Test assignment as England coach against the Black Caps. England are scheduled to host New Zealand in a three-match Test series at home which will be the first big challenge for new captain Ben Stokes and coach McCullum.

Brendon McCullum informs KKR about his exit, set to take over as England's new Test coach - Report

England pacer Mark Wood believes players let down Joe Root as captain which led to him resigning from the post of England's Test skipper earlier this year. Calls for Root's sacking had grown after England lost a Test series against West Indies away from home to continue their woeful run in the longest format.

Root's decision came after a string of poor results for the England team in Tests both at home and away from home. England lost against New Zealand and India at home last year followed by a crushing 4-0 defeat against Australia in the Ashes 2021-22 Down Under. The defeat against West Indies came as the final nail in the coffin.

While Root was blamed by many for his poor leadership qualities and failure to inspire the side to bounce back from the poor run, Wood believes players too had a role to play in his decision to resign. Wood said there was a lot that Root was doing behind the scenes which went unnoticed.

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The pacer also went on to reveal how Root would stay back to help him when Wood would bat in the nets. The England fast bowler said Root had done almost everything he could but the results were not going England's way in the longest format.

"I actually did really well under Joe's captaincy myself. He gave me an opportunity, even with injury, he could have quite easily have said, 'no, that’s enough'. But he's stuck with me and gave me a clear plan," Mark Wood told the Mirror.

"I felt like we let him down quite a bit. He was doing so much behind the scenes that people don't see. You know, getting coaches trying to change training. He was staying behind when I was batting the net.

"He would stay behind and work on batting with me after his net. He was doing so much with trying to get it right, the culture of the team, he was getting people in to do sessions and he did everything he could to try and improve the results but it just wasn't happening," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/156-will-go-for-256-off-the-bat-ravi-shastri-issues-warning-to-umran-malik-as-rcb-thrash-srh-in-ipl-2022-477598">'156 will go for 256 off the bat': Ravi Shastri issues warning to Umran Malik as RCB thrash SRH&nbsp;</a>

Root has been replaced by star all-rounder Ben Stokes as the captain of the England Test team. Stokes has been one of the regulars for England across all formats and is easily one of the best all-rounders in the world at present. Wood admitted he didn't want Root to resign but is hopeful of Stokes doing a great job as captain.

"I didn't want that to happen to him. I really did believe he would turn it around, but it's exciting now having Stokes — I think he will do a great job," said Wood.

England pacer Mark Wood believes players let down Joe Root as captain which led to him resigning from the post of England's Test skipper earlier this year. Calls for Root's sacking had grown after England lost a Test series against West Indies away from home to continue their woeful run in the longest format.

England pacer Mark Wood believes players let down Joe Root as captain which led to him resigning from the post of England's Test skipper earlier this year. Calls for Root's sacking had grown after England lost a Test series against West Indies away from home to continue their woeful run in the longest format. Root's decision came after a string of poor results for the England team in Tests both at home and away from home. England lost against New Zealand and India at home last year followed by a crushing 4-0 defeat against Australia in the Ashes 2021-22 Down Under. The defeat against West Indies came as the final nail in the coffin. While Root was blamed by many for his poor leadership qualities and failure to inspire the side to bounce back from the poor run, Wood believes players too had a role to play in his decision to resign. Wood said there was a lot that Root was doing behind the scenes which went unnoticed. Also Read: Mumbai Indians star Suryakumar Yadav ruled out of IPL 2022 due to injury The pacer also went on to reveal how Root would stay back to help him when Wood would bat in the nets. The England fast bowler said Root had done almost everything he could but the results were not going England's way in the longest format. "I actually did really well under Joe's captaincy myself. He gave me an opportunity, even with injury, he could have quite easily have said, 'no, that’s enough'. But he's stuck with me and gave me a clear plan," Mark Wood told the Mirror. "I felt like we let him down quite a bit. He was doing so much behind the scenes that people don't see. You know, getting coaches trying to change training. He was staying behind when I was batting the net. "He would stay behind and work on batting with me after his net. He was doing so much with trying to get it right, the culture of the team, he was getting people in to do sessions and he did everything he could to try and improve the results but it just wasn't happening," he added. Also Read: '156 will go for 256 off the bat': Ravi Shastri issues warning to Umran Malik as RCB thrash SRH Root has been replaced by star all-rounder Ben Stokes as the captain of the England Test team. Stokes has been one of the regulars for England across all formats and is easily one of the best all-rounders in the world at present. Wood admitted he didn't want Root to resign but is hopeful of Stokes doing a great job as captain. "I didn't want that to happen to him. I really did believe he would turn it around, but it's exciting now having Stokes — I think he will do a great job," said Wood.

Joe Root was doing so much behind the scenes, players let him down: England pacer Mark Wood

There are a number of social media influencers who are quite young and although the internet has given them a lot of popularity and income, there are not many laws protecting them from exploitation. As a result, they face a considerable amount of risk when it comes to the payment received by them or in some cases, pressure from the parents to continue making content.

According to British MPs, there needs to be some sort of legislation that can protect the ‘kidfluencers’ from exploitation and also enforce proper regulations regarding sponsored content.

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Julian Knight, the Conservative chair of the House of Commons digital, culture, media and sport committee, said that the growing number of influencers has made the situation even worse.

“The rise of influencer culture online has brought significant new opportunities for those working in the creative industries and a boost to the UK economy,” he said according to The Guardian.

“However, as is so often the case where social media is involved, if you dig below the shiny surface of what you see on screen you will discover an altogether murkier world where both the influencers and their followers are at risk of exploitation and harm online,” he added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/victory-day-parade-absolutely-unacceptable-threat-russia-defending-motherland-in-ukraine-says-putin-477528" hreflang="en">Victory Day Parade: Russia defending motherland in Ukraine, says Putin</a>

The report from the committee explained that the ‘kidfluencers’ need to be included in the UK child labour and performance regulations to make sure that they are not forced into the sector.

“We are deeply concerned that a lack of action in the booming influencer market will lead to even more children in the industry being exploited,” said the report submitted by the report.

There are a number of social media influencers who are quite young and although the internet has given them a lot of popularity and income, there are not many laws protecting them from exploitation.

There are a number of social media influencers who are quite young and although the internet has given them a lot of popularity and income, there are not many laws protecting them from exploitation. As a result, they face a considerable amount of risk when it comes to the payment received by them or in some cases, pressure from the parents to continue making content. According to British MPs, there needs to be some sort of legislation that can protect the ‘kidfluencers’ from exploitation and also enforce proper regulations regarding sponsored content. Also read | Troops deployed in Colombo after pro-government supporters attack protesters Julian Knight, the Conservative chair of the House of Commons digital, culture, media and sport committee, said that the growing number of influencers has made the situation even worse. “The rise of influencer culture online has brought significant new opportunities for those working in the creative industries and a boost to the UK economy,” he said according to The Guardian. “However, as is so often the case where social media is involved, if you dig below the shiny surface of what you see on screen you will discover an altogether murkier world where both the influencers and their followers are at risk of exploitation and harm online,” he added. Also read | Victory Day Parade: Russia defending motherland in Ukraine, says Putin The report from the committee explained that the ‘kidfluencers’ need to be included in the UK child labour and performance regulations to make sure that they are not forced into the sector. “We are deeply concerned that a lack of action in the booming influencer market will lead to even more children in the industry being exploited,” said the report submitted by the report.

UK must protect child influencers from exploitation through labour laws, says report

England's newly-appointed Test captain Ben Stokes marked his return to first-class cricket in style on Friday (May 06). The swashbuckling all-rounder has in his elements for Durham in their County Championship match versus&nbsp;Worcestershire&nbsp;at the Country Ground in New Road as he slammed an incredible 64-ball century, including a 34-run over where he went all-out versus&nbsp;spinner Josh Baker.

Stokes' innings was as sublime as it could be but he upped the ante effortlessly when he faced Baker.&nbsp;In the 117th innings, Stokes went berserk as he slammed the first five&nbsp;deliveries for a six. While he slammed a four in the last ball, he narrowly missed out on achieving a&nbsp;historic feat&nbsp;of smashing six sixes in an over. Courtesy of his attacking&nbsp;knock, Stokes registered his 20th first-class century as well.

Here's the entertaining over where Stokes turned it on versus Baker:

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ben-stokes-succeeds-joe-root-to-become-englands-full-time-test-captain-474599">Ben Stokes succeeds Joe Root to become England's full-time Test captain</a>

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6️⃣ 6️⃣ 6️⃣ 6️⃣ 6️⃣ 4️⃣ 
 
What. An. Over. 
 
34 from six balls for <a href="https://twitter.com/benstokes38?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@benstokes38</a> as he reaches a 64 ball century 👏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LVCountyChamp?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LVCountyChamp</a> <a href="https://t.co/yqPod8Pchm">pic.twitter.com/yqPod8Pchm</a>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mr-360-ab-de-villiers-turns-to-golf-to-team-up-with-australias-ex-tennis-star-ashleigh-barty-in-icon-series-476530">Mr. 360 AB de Villiers turns to golf, to team up with Australia's ex-tennis star Ashleigh Barty in Icon Series</a>

For the record, Stokes' century is also the fastest by a Durham batter.&nbsp;At lunch on Day 2, Durham are well-placed at 549/4 with the English Test skipper going strong&nbsp;unbeaten at 147 off&nbsp;just 82 deliveries. Earlier, opener Sean Dickson had set the foundation for a big total with&nbsp;an impressive century after skipper Scott Borthwick elected to bat first post the coin toss.

England's newly-appointed Test captain Ben Stokes marked his return to first-class cricket in style on Friday (May 06). The swashbuckling all-rounder has in his elements for Durham in their County Championship match versus Worcestershire at the Country Ground in New Road as he slammed an incredible 64-ball century, including a 34-run over where he went all-out versus spinner Josh Baker.

England's newly-appointed Test captain Ben Stokes marked his return to first-class cricket in style on Friday (May 06). The swashbuckling all-rounder has in his elements for Durham in their County Championship match versus Worcestershire at the Country Ground in New Road as he slammed an incredible 64-ball century, including a 34-run over where he went all-out versus spinner Josh Baker. Stokes' innings was as sublime as it could be but he upped the ante effortlessly when he faced Baker. In the 117th innings, Stokes went berserk as he slammed the first five deliveries for a six. While he slammed a four in the last ball, he narrowly missed out on achieving a historic feat of smashing six sixes in an over. Courtesy of his attacking knock, Stokes registered his 20th first-class century as well. Here's the entertaining over where Stokes turned it on versus Baker: ALSO READ | Ben Stokes succeeds Joe Root to become England's full-time Test captain 6️⃣ 6️⃣ 6️⃣ 6️⃣ 6️⃣ 4️⃣ What. An. Over. 34 from six balls for @benstokes38 as he reaches a 64 ball century 👏#LVCountyChamp pic.twitter.com/yqPod8Pchm — LV= Insurance County Championship (@CountyChamp) May 6, 2022 × ALSO READ | Mr. 360 AB de Villiers turns to golf, to team up with Australia's ex-tennis star Ashleigh Barty in Icon Series For the record, Stokes' century is also the fastest by a Durham batter. At lunch on Day 2, Durham are well-placed at 549/4 with the English Test skipper going strong unbeaten at 147 off just 82 deliveries. Earlier, opener Sean Dickson had set the foundation for a big total with an impressive century after skipper Scott Borthwick elected to bat first post the coin toss.

Ben Stokes goes berserk with incredible ton on return to first-class cricket, slams 34 runs in an over - Watch

Gary Kirsten is currently serving as the batting coach of the Gujarat Titans (GT) in IPL 2022. However, he is set to take over as England's Test team's coach as the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is looking for a total revamp. ECB's new managing director Rob Key and Kirsten's talk have reached the advanced stage and an announcement is likely to follow suit in the next couple of weeks as the interview rounds for red-ball and white-ball coaching roles&nbsp;will kick off on May 9.

According to the Daily Mail, Kirsten is willing to part ways with the GT franchise post the ongoing IPL season in India. However, with England set to host New Zealand in a Test series --&nbsp;starting from June 02 -- and Gujarat being a strong contender to enter the IPL playoffs, the former South African opener won't get much time for a smooth transition into his new role. If Gujarat reach the final, to be held on May 29, it will give very less time for Kirsten to interact with the England Test squad.

While Kirsten looks set to take over as England's red-ball coach, Simon Katich, and Ottis Gibson are also two known names who are in contention for either red or white-ball coaching roles. Thus, nothing is absolutely final as yet. Talking about Kirsten, he certainly has an edge as he has led India to the 2011 ODI World Cup title as their head coach and also guided South Africa to the No. 1 Test rankings in his coaching career.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/gt-vs-srh-ipl-2022-prediction-today-who-will-win-gujarat-titans-vs-sunrisers-hyderabad-match-474275">GT vs SRH, IPL 2022 prediction today: Who will win Gujarat Titans vs Sunrisers Hyderabad match?</a>

On the other hand, ECB is set to appoint all-rounder Ben Stokes as the next England Test captain. Stokes has served as former captain Joe Root's deputy for long. His record in whites is also phenomenal, with 5,061 runs and 174 scalps in the purest format. Thus, he is a strong contender to succeed Root, who resigned as the Test captain recently after England's disastrous run in Ashes 2021/22 and the West Indies tour early this year.&nbsp;

Root ended his Test captaincy tenure with most wins (27) and most losses (26) as an England captain.

Gary Kirsten is currently serving as the batting coach of the Gujarat Titans (GT) in IPL 2022. However, he is set to take over as England's Test team's coach as the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is looking for a total revamp.

Gary Kirsten is currently serving as the batting coach of the Gujarat Titans (GT) in IPL 2022. However, he is set to take over as England's Test team's coach as the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is looking for a total revamp. ECB's new managing director Rob Key and Kirsten's talk have reached the advanced stage and an announcement is likely to follow suit in the next couple of weeks as the interview rounds for red-ball and white-ball coaching roles will kick off on May 9. According to the Daily Mail, Kirsten is willing to part ways with the GT franchise post the ongoing IPL season in India. However, with England set to host New Zealand in a Test series -- starting from June 02 -- and Gujarat being a strong contender to enter the IPL playoffs, the former South African opener won't get much time for a smooth transition into his new role. If Gujarat reach the final, to be held on May 29, it will give very less time for Kirsten to interact with the England Test squad. While Kirsten looks set to take over as England's red-ball coach, Simon Katich, and Ottis Gibson are also two known names who are in contention for either red or white-ball coaching roles. Thus, nothing is absolutely final as yet. Talking about Kirsten, he certainly has an edge as he has led India to the 2011 ODI World Cup title as their head coach and also guided South Africa to the No. 1 Test rankings in his coaching career. ALSO READ | GT vs SRH, IPL 2022 prediction today: Who will win Gujarat Titans vs Sunrisers Hyderabad match? On the other hand, ECB is set to appoint all-rounder Ben Stokes as the next England Test captain. Stokes has served as former captain Joe Root's deputy for long. His record in whites is also phenomenal, with 5,061 runs and 174 scalps in the purest format. Thus, he is a strong contender to succeed Root, who resigned as the Test captain recently after England's disastrous run in Ashes 2021/22 and the West Indies tour early this year. Root ended his Test captaincy tenure with most wins (27) and most losses (26) as an England captain.

Gary Kirsten set to be England's Test coach, Ben Stokes to succeed Joe Root: Report

It is springtime in England and one of the most exciting ways of celebrating easter for both children and adults is a trip to the nearest farm. So, what are you doing on Easter?

Easter holiday at a farm, children visit farms to see newborn animals

England's World Cup-winning bowler Anya Shrubsole has announced her retirement from international cricket at the age of 30, the country`s cricket board (ECB) said on Thursday.

Shrubsole was part of two world champion squads in 2009 and 2017, playing a starring role in the latter as she took six wickets to clinch a nine-run victory over India in the final.

She played 173 matches across all formats for England, taking 227 wickets. Shrubsole holds the nation`s women's record for Twenty20 international wickets (102) and is fourth on the list for one-day international wickets.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wives-were-sent-with-pakistan-players-to-keep-an-eye-on-them-during-2012-tour-of-india-ex-pcb-chairman-470931">'PCB sent wives to keep an eye on Pakistan players during 2012 India tour'</a>

"I feel immensely privileged to have been able to represent my country for the past 14 years," Shrubsole said in a statement.

"To have been involved in women`s cricket at a time of such growth has been an honour but it has become clear to me that it is moving forward faster than I can keep up with, so it is time for me to step away."

Shrubsole will continue to play domestic cricket in the Rachael Heyhoe Flint trophy, Charlotte Edwards Cup and The Hundred.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/kl-rahul-to-pat-cummins-batters-with-fastest-fifties-in-ipl-history-470824" hreflang="en">KL Rahul to Pat Cummins: Batters with fastest fifties in IPL history</a>

"Anya has been the most tremendous servant to English cricket, and to women`s cricket specifically," ECB managing director of women`s cricket Clare Connor said.

"Her longevity, skill and impact with the new and old ball are testament to her work ethic and commitment over so many years."

Shrubsole`s last appearance for England came in their 71-run defeat by Australia in the Women`s World Cup final earlier this month, in which she took three wickets.

England's World Cup-winning bowler Anya Shrubsole has announced her retirement from international cricket at the age of 30, the country`s cricket board (ECB) said on Thursday.

England's World Cup-winning bowler Anya Shrubsole has announced her retirement from international cricket at the age of 30, the country`s cricket board (ECB) said on Thursday. Shrubsole was part of two world champion squads in 2009 and 2017, playing a starring role in the latter as she took six wickets to clinch a nine-run victory over India in the final. She played 173 matches across all formats for England, taking 227 wickets. Shrubsole holds the nation`s women's record for Twenty20 international wickets (102) and is fourth on the list for one-day international wickets. Also read | 'PCB sent wives to keep an eye on Pakistan players during 2012 India tour' "I feel immensely privileged to have been able to represent my country for the past 14 years," Shrubsole said in a statement. "To have been involved in women`s cricket at a time of such growth has been an honour but it has become clear to me that it is moving forward faster than I can keep up with, so it is time for me to step away." Shrubsole will continue to play domestic cricket in the Rachael Heyhoe Flint trophy, Charlotte Edwards Cup and The Hundred. Also read | KL Rahul to Pat Cummins: Batters with fastest fifties in IPL history "Anya has been the most tremendous servant to English cricket, and to women`s cricket specifically," ECB managing director of women`s cricket Clare Connor said. "Her longevity, skill and impact with the new and old ball are testament to her work ethic and commitment over so many years." Shrubsole`s last appearance for England came in their 71-run defeat by Australia in the Women`s World Cup final earlier this month, in which she took three wickets.

England World Cup winner Anya Shrubsole announces retirement from international cricket

Unhappy spouses in UK can now end their marriages without blaming each other. This is marked as the biggest reform of divorce law in half a century. New 'No-fault divorce' law introduced in England and Wales

England's unhappy spouses celebrate at the country introduces new 'No-fault divorce' law

No more blame games and no more fake evidence needed to separate from a bad marriage, at least in England. 
From Wednesday, unhappy spouses in England and Wales can end their marriages without blaming each other. The new rule is being touted as the biggest reform in divorce law in the country in half a century.&nbsp; 
 
The onset of "no-fault" divorces means one spouse no longer needs to prove the other guilty of adultery, "unreasonable behaviour" or desertion. 
 
Earlier, if such grounds did not exist, the couple were asked to live apart for two years before a divorce could be granted by the court. Sometimes if one of the partners objected to the proceedings, it could stretch up to five years.&nbsp; 
 
The change brings England and Wales into line with Scotland, which has its own legal system, and with other countries including the United States, Australia and Germany.

Several experts expect a rush of divorces by couples who were waiting for legal reforms, they also predict that it could lead to more marriages considering the separation would be simpler if need be.&nbsp;

The case of Tini Owens galvanised a campaign for change after she lost a Supreme Court fight in 2018, having failed to persuade the judges that her 40-year marriage should end.

Her husband had contested her claims of unreasonable behaviour, and the judges ruled that being trapped in an unhappy marriage was not in itself grounds for divorce.

"No-one should have to remain in a loveless marriage or endure a long, drawn-out and expensive court battle to end it," Owens said.

"This change in the law guards against that happening and I welcome it," she added.

(with inputs from agencies)

No more blame games and no more fake evidence needed to separate from a bad marriage, at least in England. From Wednesday, unhappy spouses in England and Wales can end their marriages without blaming each other.

No more blame games and no more fake evidence needed to separate from a bad marriage, at least in England. From Wednesday, unhappy spouses in England and Wales can end their marriages without blaming each other. The new rule is being touted as the biggest reform in divorce law in the country in half a century. The onset of "no-fault" divorces means one spouse no longer needs to prove the other guilty of adultery, "unreasonable behaviour" or desertion. Earlier, if such grounds did not exist, the couple were asked to live apart for two years before a divorce could be granted by the court. Sometimes if one of the partners objected to the proceedings, it could stretch up to five years. The change brings England and Wales into line with Scotland, which has its own legal system, and with other countries including the United States, Australia and Germany. Several experts expect a rush of divorces by couples who were waiting for legal reforms, they also predict that it could lead to more marriages considering the separation would be simpler if need be. The case of Tini Owens galvanised a campaign for change after she lost a Supreme Court fight in 2018, having failed to persuade the judges that her 40-year marriage should end. Her husband had contested her claims of unreasonable behaviour, and the judges ruled that being trapped in an unhappy marriage was not in itself grounds for divorce. "No-one should have to remain in a loveless marriage or endure a long, drawn-out and expensive court battle to end it," Owens said. "This change in the law guards against that happening and I welcome it," she added. (with inputs from agencies)

No-fault divorce law comes into force in England and Wales

The United States will face England and Iran in Group B at the World Cup finals while Spain will take on Germany in a clash of former winners in Group E. 
 
Holders France will meet Denmark and Tunisia in Group D while the tournament will kick off on Nov. 21 with hosts Qatar playing Ecuador. 
 
For the U.S., the draw pits them against their former colonial rulers England and the Iranians, a country they have had long-running political disputes with.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bruno-fernandes-signs-new-contract-extension-with-manchester-united-till-2026-467469" hreflang="en">Bruno Fernandes signs new contract extension with Manchester United till 2026</a> 
 
The U.S. faced Iran at the 1998 World Cup in France, losing 2-1 to the Gulf nation. 
 
Group G was one of the toughest, pitting five-times World Cup winners Brazil against Serbia, Switzerland and Cameroon. 
 
The draw came after a 45 minute musical and video show as FIFA president Gianni Infantino promised the event would "simply be the best tournament ever".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-bcci-likely-to-go-ahead-with-50-percent-capacity-in-stadiums-from-next-week-467470" hreflang="en">IPL 2022: BCCI likely to go ahead with 50 percent capacity from next week</a> 
 
The decision in 2010 to hand the hosting rights to Qatar was heavily criticised and there has been intense scrutiny of the human rights situation in the country. 
 
Qatar`s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani welcomed the guests who included national team coaches, World Cup-winning players and football officials all waiting to discover the group stage match-ups during a ceremony presented by British actor Idris Elba and broadcaster Reshmin Chowdhury. 
 
The tournament will run from Nov. 21 to Dec. 18 -- the first time soccer`s top prize has been competed for in the Middle East and there was a distinct Arabian feeling to the show.

The United States will face England and Iran in Group B at the World Cup finals while Spain will take on Germany in a clash of former winners in Group E. Holders France will meet Denmark and Tunisia in Group D while the tournament will kick off on Nov.

The United States will face England and Iran in Group B at the World Cup finals while Spain will take on Germany in a clash of former winners in Group E. Holders France will meet Denmark and Tunisia in Group D while the tournament will kick off on Nov. 21 with hosts Qatar playing Ecuador. For the U.S., the draw pits them against their former colonial rulers England and the Iranians, a country they have had long-running political disputes with. Also read | Bruno Fernandes signs new contract extension with Manchester United till 2026 The U.S. faced Iran at the 1998 World Cup in France, losing 2-1 to the Gulf nation. Group G was one of the toughest, pitting five-times World Cup winners Brazil against Serbia, Switzerland and Cameroon. The draw came after a 45 minute musical and video show as FIFA president Gianni Infantino promised the event would "simply be the best tournament ever". Also read | IPL 2022: BCCI likely to go ahead with 50 percent capacity from next week The decision in 2010 to hand the hosting rights to Qatar was heavily criticised and there has been intense scrutiny of the human rights situation in the country. Qatar`s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani welcomed the guests who included national team coaches, World Cup-winning players and football officials all waiting to discover the group stage match-ups during a ceremony presented by British actor Idris Elba and broadcaster Reshmin Chowdhury. The tournament will run from Nov. 21 to Dec. 18 -- the first time soccer`s top prize has been competed for in the Middle East and there was a distinct Arabian feeling to the show.

U.S. to face England and Iran, Spain meet Germany in FIFA World Cup 2022 group stage

Defending champions England booked their spot in the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup semi-finals with an easy 100-run triumph over Bangladesh here at Basin Reserve on Sunday.

Sophia Dunkley's 67 helped the reigning World Cup champions post 234/6 at Basin Reserve and a brilliant bowling performance by Sophie Ecclestone's spell of 3/15.

Bangladesh made slow progress and kept losing wickets in their chase of 235 against England.

All-rounder Lata Mondal top-scored for Bangladesh with 30 and openers Shamima Sultana and Sharmin Akhter made 23 apiece.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mithali-raj-achieves-unique-feat-becomes-oldest-indian-cricketer-to-score-half-century-in-womens-world-cup-465894">Mithali Raj creates world record, becomes oldest Indian cricketer to score half-century in Women's World Cup</a>

Sophie Ecclestone and Charlotte Dean took three wickets apiece while Freya Davies took one as Bangladesh were bowled out for 134 runs in 48 overs.

Earlier, a brilliant half-century from Sophia Dunkley helped England recover from a collapse of 96 for four.

Salma Khatun's two wickets were the pick of the Bangladesh bowlers, who combined well to make sure England couldn't gather too much momentum in their innings.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/womens-world-cup-semifinal-berth-at-stake-as-india-face-south-africa-in-do-or-die-clash-465750">Women's World Cup: Semifinal berth at stake as India face South Africa in do-or-die clash</a>

England's quest to reach the knockout stages of the tournament actually started poorly, with Danni Wyatt on six runs and Knight also on six runs falling inside the first eight overs and the score only on 26.

Natalie Sciver 40, Amy Jones 31 and Katherine Brunt 24* also made key contributions to help England post 235 for six in the must-win game for the defending champions.

Brief score: England 234/6 (Sophia Dunkley 67, Nat Sciver 40; Salma Khatun 2/46) Bangladesh 134/10 (Salma Khatun 30, Sharmin Akhter 23; Sophie Ecclestone 3/15).&nbsp;

Defending champions England booked their spot in the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup semi-finals with an easy 100-run triumph over Bangladesh here at Basin Reserve on Sunday.

Defending champions England booked their spot in the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup semi-finals with an easy 100-run triumph over Bangladesh here at Basin Reserve on Sunday. Sophia Dunkley's 67 helped the reigning World Cup champions post 234/6 at Basin Reserve and a brilliant bowling performance by Sophie Ecclestone's spell of 3/15. Bangladesh made slow progress and kept losing wickets in their chase of 235 against England. All-rounder Lata Mondal top-scored for Bangladesh with 30 and openers Shamima Sultana and Sharmin Akhter made 23 apiece. ALSO READ: Mithali Raj creates world record, becomes oldest Indian cricketer to score half-century in Women's World Cup Sophie Ecclestone and Charlotte Dean took three wickets apiece while Freya Davies took one as Bangladesh were bowled out for 134 runs in 48 overs. Earlier, a brilliant half-century from Sophia Dunkley helped England recover from a collapse of 96 for four. Salma Khatun's two wickets were the pick of the Bangladesh bowlers, who combined well to make sure England couldn't gather too much momentum in their innings. ALSO READ: Women's World Cup: Semifinal berth at stake as India face South Africa in do-or-die clash England's quest to reach the knockout stages of the tournament actually started poorly, with Danni Wyatt on six runs and Knight also on six runs falling inside the first eight overs and the score only on 26. Natalie Sciver 40, Amy Jones 31 and Katherine Brunt 24* also made key contributions to help England post 235 for six in the must-win game for the defending champions. Brief score: England 234/6 (Sophia Dunkley 67, Nat Sciver 40; Salma Khatun 2/46) Bangladesh 134/10 (Salma Khatun 30, Sharmin Akhter 23; Sophie Ecclestone 3/15).

Women's World Cup: Defending champions England book semis spot with comfortable 100 run win against Bangladesh

The UK is currently witnessing a huge surge in coronavirus cases. Last week, around 3.5 million people in England had Covid. &nbsp;

The infections have risen to their second highest level ever, the official data shows. &nbsp;

The PM’s scientific advisers have also started to call for tighter restrictions. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-to-fund-2-million-pounds-of-food-supplies-for-encircled-ukrainian-cities-465602" hreflang="en">UK to fund 2 million pounds of food supplies for encircled Ukrainian cities</a>

Around 3.48 million people were carrying the virus at any given time in the week beginning from March 19, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) said as per an estimate. It is a 31 per cent rise compared to the previous week. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In a week, Covid levels rose by around one million. It is now approaching the peak of the Omicron wave. A record 3.74 million people in England had virus in the first week of January. &nbsp; &nbsp;

In every corner of the UK, the infections are rising. In Scotland, they have already surpassed the previous peak. Now, one in 11 Scots seems to have been infected in the recent week, the ONS said. &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-uk-pm-boris-johnson-snubbed-ahead-of-nato-group-photo-465569" hreflang="en">Watch: UK PM Boris Johnson ‘snubbed’ ahead of NATO group photo</a>

Hospitalisations are also high in Scotland and are currently rising in England. &nbsp;&nbsp;

SAGE member Professor Matt Keeling said, "With the withdrawal of free testing from April 1, this ability of the public to assess and respond to the risk of infection has been removed. Lateral flow tests are relatively inexpensive, and could even be cost saving if they help prevent sufficiently many hospital admissions." &nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;UK consumer confidence slides as inflation and war worries mount

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Dr Susan Hopkins, chief medical adviser, UK Health Security Agency, asked citizens to wear masks in enclosed spaces. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The UK is currently witnessing a huge surge in coronavirus cases. Last week, around 3.5 million people in England had Covid. The infections have risen to their second highest level ever, the official data shows.

The UK is currently witnessing a huge surge in coronavirus cases. Last week, around 3.5 million people in England had Covid. The infections have risen to their second highest level ever, the official data shows. The PM’s scientific advisers have also started to call for tighter restrictions. Also Read: UK to fund 2 million pounds of food supplies for encircled Ukrainian cities Around 3.48 million people were carrying the virus at any given time in the week beginning from March 19, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) said as per an estimate. It is a 31 per cent rise compared to the previous week. In a week, Covid levels rose by around one million. It is now approaching the peak of the Omicron wave. A record 3.74 million people in England had virus in the first week of January. In every corner of the UK, the infections are rising. In Scotland, they have already surpassed the previous peak. Now, one in 11 Scots seems to have been infected in the recent week, the ONS said. Also Read | Watch: UK PM Boris Johnson ‘snubbed’ ahead of NATO group photo Hospitalisations are also high in Scotland and are currently rising in England. SAGE member Professor Matt Keeling said, "With the withdrawal of free testing from April 1, this ability of the public to assess and respond to the risk of infection has been removed. Lateral flow tests are relatively inexpensive, and could even be cost saving if they help prevent sufficiently many hospital admissions." Watch: UK consumer confidence slides as inflation and war worries mount × Dr Susan Hopkins, chief medical adviser, UK Health Security Agency, asked citizens to wear masks in enclosed spaces. (With inputs from agencies)

As 3.5 million people had Covid in England last week, experts call for tighter restrictions

Mikel Arteta has played down Arsenal's improved recent form and heaped praise on Liverpool, saying his side will need to be at their best to compete with a team that dominates every aspect of the game when they meet at The Emirates on Wednesday.

Arsenal have won their last five league games and returned to the top four after Sunday's 2-0 home win over Leicester City moved them a point ahead of Manchester United with three games in hand.

Juergen Klopp's Livepool, who have not lost a league game this year, will be looking to close the gap on leaders Manchester City to a point with a win at Arsenal.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chelsea-will-continue-to-fight-hard-for-success-says-coach-thomas-tuchel-amid-roman-abramovich-crisis-462608">Chelsea will continue to fight hard for success, says coach Thomas Tuchel amid Roman Abramovich crisis</a>

Arteta told reporters on Tuesday: "We are facing arguably the best team in England and have to be at our best to beat them. You face a team that dominates every single aspect of the game, so when that happens you have to be at your very best."

"Credit to Juergen, the coaching staff and to the club as well for what they have created. They haven't just created a team that can compete and be successful, They have created a huge cultural understanding of who Liverpool is today."

"The stadium and the atmosphere they can create, the support, the level, how they communicate. It's a lot of things, not just individuals, or the players that they have recruited and the plan that they had to reach that level. It`s a whole plan that I really value," he added.

Arteta said Arsenal still have to improve a lot before they can challenge the Premier League`s biggest teams but they are playing the best football since he took charge in December 2019.

"I think with the level of consistency, throughout the games I would say yes," Arteta added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-title-race-heats-up-as-manchester-city-settles-for-a-draw-against-crystal-palace-462422">Premier League: Title race heats up as Manchester City drop points against Newcastle United</a>

"Being in this position, what encourages me is to look up in the table, and look forward. Not to start (looking) in your mirror.

"We are playing better. We have a better understanding on what we want. We have confidence and belief, and an understanding with each other. Everything clicks better and quicker."

"It gives you the belief that you can be there with the top teams in the country but there's still a long way to go. There are better teams in the country because that's what the league table shows. We haven`t done anything yet."

Mikel Arteta has played down Arsenal's improved recent form and heaped praise on Liverpool, saying his side will need to be at their best to compete with a team that dominates every aspect of the game when they meet at The Emirates on Wednesday.

Mikel Arteta has played down Arsenal's improved recent form and heaped praise on Liverpool, saying his side will need to be at their best to compete with a team that dominates every aspect of the game when they meet at The Emirates on Wednesday. Arsenal have won their last five league games and returned to the top four after Sunday's 2-0 home win over Leicester City moved them a point ahead of Manchester United with three games in hand. Juergen Klopp's Livepool, who have not lost a league game this year, will be looking to close the gap on leaders Manchester City to a point with a win at Arsenal. ALSO READ: Chelsea will continue to fight hard for success, says coach Thomas Tuchel amid Roman Abramovich crisis Arteta told reporters on Tuesday: "We are facing arguably the best team in England and have to be at our best to beat them. You face a team that dominates every single aspect of the game, so when that happens you have to be at your very best." "Credit to Juergen, the coaching staff and to the club as well for what they have created. They haven't just created a team that can compete and be successful, They have created a huge cultural understanding of who Liverpool is today." "The stadium and the atmosphere they can create, the support, the level, how they communicate. It's a lot of things, not just individuals, or the players that they have recruited and the plan that they had to reach that level. It`s a whole plan that I really value," he added. Arteta said Arsenal still have to improve a lot before they can challenge the Premier League`s biggest teams but they are playing the best football since he took charge in December 2019. "I think with the level of consistency, throughout the games I would say yes," Arteta added. ALSO READ: Premier League: Title race heats up as Manchester City drop points against Newcastle United "Being in this position, what encourages me is to look up in the table, and look forward. Not to start (looking) in your mirror. "We are playing better. We have a better understanding on what we want. We have confidence and belief, and an understanding with each other. Everything clicks better and quicker." "It gives you the belief that you can be there with the top teams in the country but there's still a long way to go. There are better teams in the country because that's what the league table shows. We haven`t done anything yet."

Liverpool arguably the best team in England, says Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta

Coronavirus is not over yet. The rise in the number of infections in different parts of the world seem to be a reminder for everyone. &nbsp;

In England, the number of Covid cases have spiked among older adults. &nbsp;

Although there has been a broad decline since a peak in January, the cases among the elderly remain at a high level, as per a government-commissioned study published on Thursday. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-pandemic-may-be-three-times-deadlier-than-reported-says-study-461157" hreflang="en">Covid pandemic deaths may be thrice than reported, claims study</a>

The REACT COVID-19 monitoring programme found that around 1 in 35 people in England got infected with Covid. It was also revealed that infections were rising among people aged 55 and above. &nbsp;

It looked at almost 95,000 home swab tests taken in February. &nbsp;

The hike in the number could have been due to rise in socialisation as all coronavirus restrictions have been lifted in late February and as the protection from the vaccine booster has been declining, researchers said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-uk-sees-a-surge-in-cases-for-people-aged-55-and-above-460980" hreflang="en">COVID-19: UK sees a surge in cases for people aged 55 and above</a>

Paul Elliott, director, study, said there was an uptick in hospitalisations and infections in old people. “But we don't know where it's going to go. We really need to be monitoring closely the infection data through surveys, such as REACT, and we need to monitor the hospitalisation.” &nbsp;&nbsp;

Jenny Harries, head, UK Health Security Agency, said the data showed that "the pandemic is not over and we can expect to see COVID-19 circulating at high levels." &nbsp;&nbsp;

In last 7 days, more than 346,000 people have tested positive as per official figures. This is a 46% jump from the previous week. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Coronavirus is not over yet. The rise in the number of infections in different parts of the world seem to be a reminder for everyone. In England, the number of Covid cases have spiked among older adults.

Coronavirus is not over yet. The rise in the number of infections in different parts of the world seem to be a reminder for everyone. In England, the number of Covid cases have spiked among older adults. Although there has been a broad decline since a peak in January, the cases among the elderly remain at a high level, as per a government-commissioned study published on Thursday. Also Read: Covid pandemic deaths may be thrice than reported, claims study The REACT COVID-19 monitoring programme found that around 1 in 35 people in England got infected with Covid. It was also revealed that infections were rising among people aged 55 and above. It looked at almost 95,000 home swab tests taken in February. The hike in the number could have been due to rise in socialisation as all coronavirus restrictions have been lifted in late February and as the protection from the vaccine booster has been declining, researchers said. Also Read | COVID-19: UK sees a surge in cases for people aged 55 and above Paul Elliott, director, study, said there was an uptick in hospitalisations and infections in old people. “But we don't know where it's going to go. We really need to be monitoring closely the infection data through surveys, such as REACT, and we need to monitor the hospitalisation.” Jenny Harries, head, UK Health Security Agency, said the data showed that "the pandemic is not over and we can expect to see COVID-19 circulating at high levels." In last 7 days, more than 346,000 people have tested positive as per official figures. This is a 46% jump from the previous week. (With inputs from agencies)

In England, number of Covid cases witness rise among older adults, says study  

The coronavirus forced Christopher Riley, a 53-year-old with blood cancer who lives in London, to strike a balance in the pursuit of normalcy. He would grab flowers from the buckets next to the entrance of a supermarket, but keep it quick. He went to Tate Modern, but on an early weekday morning. He would cook for friends, but only a small group who had all taken COVID tests.

Those accommodations allowed Riley to maintain something of a normal life as the virus roared through Britain, even though his condition meant that his immune system was compromised.

But now, after Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced Monday that he was scrapping the coronavirus restrictions in England, Riley and other vulnerable people are afraid that even scaled-back activities will be too risky, leaving them further isolated even as the country opens up for most people.

“Now I can’t see how we can move forward into a sort of normality,” he said, adding that the new approach will push him more into his house. “There is nothing there to protect us.”

A return to regular life was at the heart of Johnson’s decision to roll back the remainder of England’s legally enforceable coronavirus restrictions, in what has been described as an effort to live with the virus. People who are infected will no longer have to isolate, and most testing will no longer be free.

“We must chart a course back towards normality as rapidly as possible,” Johnson said during a news conference Monday.

For Clare Dawson, that path had just been interrupted.

“If there was someone walking around the streets whom you knew might kill you, would you go out?” said Dawson, 41, who lives in London and has a chronic lung disease that puts her at greater risk of severe consequences from COVID-19.

Gemma Peters, CEO of Blood Cancer U.K., a charity that funds research into blood cancer, said that after the prime minister’s announcement, its hotline was overwhelmed with calls from cancer patients asking what the new rules meant for them and whether it would be safe for them to go out.

“We can’t answer all the calls,” Peters said. “People use language like, ‘Society doesn’t care if I die,’ and I think that is the feeling — that they are kind of collateral damage.”

The British government said in a news conference that it would continue to protect the most vulnerable with targeted vaccinations and treatments and that free tests would still be available for vulnerable people, but it acknowledged that lifting the remaining legal curbs would most likely cause a rise in cases.

“Keeping free testing for the vulnerable? That’s too late,” said Trishna Bharadia, 42, who has multiple sclerosis and has been largely isolating at home in Buckinghamshire, England, for the past two years. “The aim should be to prevent the vulnerable from getting COVID in the first place.”

Bharadia said she and her family watched Johnson’s news conference Monday in the living room from where they have watched virtual weddings, funerals and birthday parties they have not been able to attend for the past two years.

“We can only live with the virus if those protection measures continue,” said Bharadia. “Just because I have a health condition, it doesn’t mean that I matter less.”

Still, the trend for fewer restrictions seems clear. On Tuesday, Scotland — which is part of Britain but sets its own COVID policies — also moved to roll back its legal coronavirus restrictions. Nicola Sturgeon, the first minister there, announced plans to lift mask mandates in March and said the country’s COVID certification scheme, which requires people to show proof of vaccination or a recent negative test in order to attend large events, would end this month.

And the British government has also withdrawn its guidance in England for staff and students at most schools and nurseries to test twice a week, even if they do not have symptoms. Infected children, just like the adults, will also no longer be legally required to self-isolate, but will be advised to do so.

Experts warned that this could lead children who have a weak immune system or live with vulnerable family members to be excluded from school.

Ceinwen Giles, 47, who developed an immune deficiency after her cancer treatment for non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, said that her 12-year-old daughter would continue to go to school but is anxious about the likelihood that she may be sitting next to children who might be infected.

“This is how we have to live,” said Giles, who is also joint CEO of Shine Cancer Support, a charity for young adults with cancer. “And no one seems to care.”

In England and Wales, only 16.8% of people who died of COVID from October to December last year did not have a preexisting health condition, according to the British government. For people who have a weaker immune system because of a disease or a treatment, COVID-19 can be more deadly, and vaccines often offer less protection.

Whether or not their condition forced them to take health precautions even before the pandemic, in the last two years many clinically vulnerable people have been forced into nearly total isolation, and even more so as mandates and restrictions have dropped around them. In the United States, many immunocompromised and higher-risk people have also felt left behind by the flurry of lifted restrictions.

“You feel different again,” said Dawson, adding that the new approach from the government had made her feel more alone in the face of the virus and forced to adopt her own precautions, stripped of the equalizing effect of rules.

Ultimately, people with health conditions understand the desire for life to return to normal and say they are not asking for draconian restrictions.

Instead, they say that modest restrictions — like mask mandates in transportation and supermarkets, and isolation requirements for infected people — would make a big difference for the more vulnerable without causing a major disruption to everyone else.

“The mask is just such a small thing,” said Riley, 53. “I can’t wrap my head around how it’s such an issue for people.”

The coronavirus forced Christopher Riley, a 53-year-old with blood cancer who lives in London, to strike a balance in the pursuit of normalcy. He would grab flowers from the buckets next to the entrance of a supermarket, but keep it quick.

The coronavirus forced Christopher Riley, a 53-year-old with blood cancer who lives in London, to strike a balance in the pursuit of normalcy. He would grab flowers from the buckets next to the entrance of a supermarket, but keep it quick. He went to Tate Modern, but on an early weekday morning. He would cook for friends, but only a small group who had all taken COVID tests. Those accommodations allowed Riley to maintain something of a normal life as the virus roared through Britain, even though his condition meant that his immune system was compromised. But now, after Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced Monday that he was scrapping the coronavirus restrictions in England, Riley and other vulnerable people are afraid that even scaled-back activities will be too risky, leaving them further isolated even as the country opens up for most people. “Now I can’t see how we can move forward into a sort of normality,” he said, adding that the new approach will push him more into his house. “There is nothing there to protect us.” A return to regular life was at the heart of Johnson’s decision to roll back the remainder of England’s legally enforceable coronavirus restrictions, in what has been described as an effort to live with the virus. People who are infected will no longer have to isolate, and most testing will no longer be free. “We must chart a course back towards normality as rapidly as possible,” Johnson said during a news conference Monday. For Clare Dawson, that path had just been interrupted. “If there was someone walking around the streets whom you knew might kill you, would you go out?” said Dawson, 41, who lives in London and has a chronic lung disease that puts her at greater risk of severe consequences from COVID-19. Gemma Peters, CEO of Blood Cancer U.K., a charity that funds research into blood cancer, said that after the prime minister’s announcement, its hotline was overwhelmed with calls from cancer patients asking what the new rules meant for them and whether it would be safe for them to go out. “We can’t answer all the calls,” Peters said. “People use language like, ‘Society doesn’t care if I die,’ and I think that is the feeling — that they are kind of collateral damage.” The British government said in a news conference that it would continue to protect the most vulnerable with targeted vaccinations and treatments and that free tests would still be available for vulnerable people, but it acknowledged that lifting the remaining legal curbs would most likely cause a rise in cases. “Keeping free testing for the vulnerable? That’s too late,” said Trishna Bharadia, 42, who has multiple sclerosis and has been largely isolating at home in Buckinghamshire, England, for the past two years. “The aim should be to prevent the vulnerable from getting COVID in the first place.” Bharadia said she and her family watched Johnson’s news conference Monday in the living room from where they have watched virtual weddings, funerals and birthday parties they have not been able to attend for the past two years. “We can only live with the virus if those protection measures continue,” said Bharadia. “Just because I have a health condition, it doesn’t mean that I matter less.” Still, the trend for fewer restrictions seems clear. On Tuesday, Scotland — which is part of Britain but sets its own COVID policies — also moved to roll back its legal coronavirus restrictions. Nicola Sturgeon, the first minister there, announced plans to lift mask mandates in March and said the country’s COVID certification scheme, which requires people to show proof of vaccination or a recent negative test in order to attend large events, would end this month. And the British government has also withdrawn its guidance in England for staff and students at most schools and nurseries to test twice a week, even if they do not have symptoms. Infected children, just like the adults, will also no longer be legally required to self-isolate, but will be advised to do so. Experts warned that this could lead children who have a weak immune system or live with vulnerable family members to be excluded from school. Ceinwen Giles, 47, who developed an immune deficiency after her cancer treatment for non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, said that her 12-year-old daughter would continue to go to school but is anxious about the likelihood that she may be sitting next to children who might be infected. “This is how we have to live,” said Giles, who is also joint CEO of Shine Cancer Support, a charity for young adults with cancer. “And no one seems to care.” In England and Wales, only 16.8% of people who died of COVID from October to December last year did not have a preexisting health condition, according to the British government. For people who have a weaker immune system because of a disease or a treatment, COVID-19 can be more deadly, and vaccines often offer less protection. Whether or not their condition forced them to take health precautions even before the pandemic, in the last two years many clinically vulnerable people have been forced into nearly total isolation, and even more so as mandates and restrictions have dropped around them. In the United States, many immunocompromised and higher-risk people have also felt left behind by the flurry of lifted restrictions. “You feel different again,” said Dawson, adding that the new approach from the government had made her feel more alone in the face of the virus and forced to adopt her own precautions, stripped of the equalizing effect of rules. Ultimately, people with health conditions understand the desire for life to return to normal and say they are not asking for draconian restrictions. Instead, they say that modest restrictions — like mask mandates in transportation and supermarkets, and isolation requirements for infected people — would make a big difference for the more vulnerable without causing a major disruption to everyone else. “The mask is just such a small thing,” said Riley, 53. “I can’t wrap my head around how it’s such an issue for people.”

For some in England, end of virus rules threatens more isolation

Nearly two years of covid-19 restrictions have been brought to an end. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson in the parliament announced details of his government's plan for living with covid-19 by treating it like any other transmissible illness such as flu.

England ends covid-19 restrictions, Boris Johnson announces details of 'living with covid' plan

Two&nbsp;Benin&nbsp;bronzes&nbsp;were&nbsp;returned&nbsp;on Saturday to a traditional palace in Nigeria,&nbsp;more&nbsp;than&nbsp;a&nbsp;century&nbsp;after they were pillaged by British troops, raising hopes that thousands&nbsp;more&nbsp;artefacts could finally be&nbsp;returned&nbsp;to their ancestral home.

The artefacts, mostly in Europe, were stolen by explorers and colonizers from the once mighty&nbsp;Benin&nbsp;Kingdom, now southwestern Nigeria, and are among Africa's most significant heritage objects. They were created as early as the 16th&nbsp;century&nbsp;onwards, according to the British Museum.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nigeria-restores-twitter-after-company-agrees-to-open-regional-office-444368">Nigeria restores Twitter after company agrees to open regional office</a>

At a colourful ceremony to mark the return of a cockerel sculpture and head of an Oba or king, spokesman Charles Edosonmwan for the Oba palace in&nbsp;Benin&nbsp;City noted that some of the&nbsp;bronzes&nbsp;were kept as far away as New Zealand, the United States and Japan.

The two artefacts were handed over to the Nigerian High Commission in October by the University of Aberdeen and Cambridge University's Jesus College but have yet to return to their ancestral home.

"They are not just art but they are things that underline the significance of our spirituality," Edosonmwan said in an interview on the sidelines of a ceremony attended by traditional leaders.

Watch |&nbsp;Terrorists Kidnap 20 children in Nigeria's Borno state

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/terrorists-kidnap-20-children-in-nigerias-borno-state-446660/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The return is another milestone in the years-long fight by African countries to recover&nbsp;looted&nbsp;works, as numerous European institutions are grappling with the cultural legacies of colonialism.

Some 90% of Africa's cultural heritage is believed to be in Europe, French art historians estimate. Musée du quai Branly–Jacques Chirac in Paris alone holds around 70,000 African objects and London's British Museum tens of thousands&nbsp;more.

Two Benin bronzes were returned on Saturday to a traditional palace in Nigeria, more than a century after they were pillaged by British troops, raising hopes that thousands more artefacts could finally be returned to their ancestral home.

Two Benin bronzes were returned on Saturday to a traditional palace in Nigeria, more than a century after they were pillaged by British troops, raising hopes that thousands more artefacts could finally be returned to their ancestral home. The artefacts, mostly in Europe, were stolen by explorers and colonizers from the once mighty Benin Kingdom, now southwestern Nigeria, and are among Africa's most significant heritage objects. They were created as early as the 16th century onwards, according to the British Museum. Also read | Nigeria restores Twitter after company agrees to open regional office At a colourful ceremony to mark the return of a cockerel sculpture and head of an Oba or king, spokesman Charles Edosonmwan for the Oba palace in Benin City noted that some of the bronzes were kept as far away as New Zealand, the United States and Japan. The two artefacts were handed over to the Nigerian High Commission in October by the University of Aberdeen and Cambridge University's Jesus College but have yet to return to their ancestral home. "They are not just art but they are things that underline the significance of our spirituality," Edosonmwan said in an interview on the sidelines of a ceremony attended by traditional leaders. Watch | Terrorists Kidnap 20 children in Nigeria's Borno state The return is another milestone in the years-long fight by African countries to recover looted works, as numerous European institutions are grappling with the cultural legacies of colonialism. Some 90% of Africa's cultural heritage is believed to be in Europe, French art historians estimate. Musée du quai Branly–Jacques Chirac in Paris alone holds around 70,000 African objects and London's British Museum tens of thousands more.

Nigeria's looted Benin bronzes returned, more than a century later

Met Office has issued rare red weather warning for parts of Britain as Storm Eunice began battering the country. The government has also urged people to stay at home.

Storm Eunice hits England and Wales, people urged to stay indoors

Molineux will stage an England game for the first time since 1956 when Gareth Southgate's team take on Italy in June, the Football Association said on Thursday.

The home of Wolverhampton Wanderers will welcome Italy on June 11 in a Nations League clash with England up against Hungary three days later also at Molineux.

The match against Italy, a repeat of the Euro 2020 final in which Italy won on penalties, will take place behind closed doors because of a UEFA sanction.

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Wembley is the traditional home of the England team but there has been a trend of taking games on the road in the build-up to major tournaments, with games having been played in Sunderland, Manchester, Leeds, Middlesbrough, Leicester and Southampton in recent years.

The last time England played at Molineux was a 5-2 victory over Denmark in a World Cup qualifier in December 1956.

"While Wembley is our home, we very much enjoy taking the squad on the road where possible, particularly in the run up to a major tournament," Southgate said.

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"2022 promises to be an exciting adventure for England fans and it is great that one of English football`s famous stadiums will be a part of that."

England will also face Germany in their Nations League group. Their first match is away to Hungary on June 4.

The Nations League will be completed in September before the World Cup starts in Qatar in November.

Molineux will stage an England game for the first time since 1956 when Gareth Southgate's team take on Italy in June, the Football Association said on Thursday. The home of Wolverhampton Wanderers will welcome Italy on June 11 in a Nations League clash with England up against Hungary three days later also at Molineux.

Molineux will stage an England game for the first time since 1956 when Gareth Southgate's team take on Italy in June, the Football Association said on Thursday. The home of Wolverhampton Wanderers will welcome Italy on June 11 in a Nations League clash with England up against Hungary three days later also at Molineux. The match against Italy, a repeat of the Euro 2020 final in which Italy won on penalties, will take place behind closed doors because of a UEFA sanction. ALSO READ: Fans raise WHOPPING sum for young kid who sent heartwarming note to favourite player Harry McKirdy Wembley is the traditional home of the England team but there has been a trend of taking games on the road in the build-up to major tournaments, with games having been played in Sunderland, Manchester, Leeds, Middlesbrough, Leicester and Southampton in recent years. The last time England played at Molineux was a 5-2 victory over Denmark in a World Cup qualifier in December 1956. "While Wembley is our home, we very much enjoy taking the squad on the road where possible, particularly in the run up to a major tournament," Southgate said. ALSO READ: Champions League: Firmino, Salah star in Liverpool's win over Inter Milan, Bayern-Salzburg play out a draw "2022 promises to be an exciting adventure for England fans and it is great that one of English football`s famous stadiums will be a part of that." England will also face Germany in their Nations League group. Their first match is away to Hungary on June 4. The Nations League will be completed in September before the World Cup starts in Qatar in November.

England to face Euro 2020 champions Italy in UEFA Nations League game at Molineux

Western Australia wicketkeeper-batsman Josh Inglis will make his international debut as Australia make two changes for the start of the Twenty20 series against Sri Lanka, captain Aaron Finch said on Thursday.

Inglis will bat at No. 3 but will not keep wicket, with Matthew Wade continuing behind the stumps, Finch added on the eve of the first match at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

Opening batter Ben McDermott joins Inglis as additions to the lineup from November`s victorious Twenty20 World Cup final team. David Warner and Mitch Marsh are being rested.

English-born Inglis, who moved to Australia at the age of 14, was not prolific in the domestic Big Bash League (BBL) season just ended but is rated highly in the Australia camp.

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"He hasn`t got the runs he would have liked throughout the Big Bash as he has done in the past ... so it`s a great opportunity for him," Finch said of the 26-year-old Inglis.

As for McDermott, the leading BBL run-scorer, Finch said he had been "in unbelievable nick so to get him at the top of the order was really crucial for us."

Australia and Sri Lanka will play a five-match series between Friday and Feb. 20 -- two games in Sydney, one in Canberra and two in Melbourne.

Sri Lanka will initially at least be without batter Kusal Mendis nL4N2UJ2BK, who tested positive for COVID-19 and has been in isolation since Monday.

Western Australia wicketkeeper-batsman Josh Inglis will make his international debut as Australia make two changes for the start of the Twenty20 series against Sri Lanka, captain Aaron Finch said on Thursday.

Western Australia wicketkeeper-batsman Josh Inglis will make his international debut as Australia make two changes for the start of the Twenty20 series against Sri Lanka, captain Aaron Finch said on Thursday. Inglis will bat at No. 3 but will not keep wicket, with Matthew Wade continuing behind the stumps, Finch added on the eve of the first match at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Opening batter Ben McDermott joins Inglis as additions to the lineup from November`s victorious Twenty20 World Cup final team. David Warner and Mitch Marsh are being rested. English-born Inglis, who moved to Australia at the age of 14, was not prolific in the domestic Big Bash League (BBL) season just ended but is rated highly in the Australia camp. ALSO READ: Anderson, Broad omission does not mean the end of them as Three Lions players: Andrew Strauss "He hasn`t got the runs he would have liked throughout the Big Bash as he has done in the past ... so it`s a great opportunity for him," Finch said of the 26-year-old Inglis. As for McDermott, the leading BBL run-scorer, Finch said he had been "in unbelievable nick so to get him at the top of the order was really crucial for us." Australia and Sri Lanka will play a five-match series between Friday and Feb. 20 -- two games in Sydney, one in Canberra and two in Melbourne. Sri Lanka will initially at least be without batter Kusal Mendis nL4N2UJ2BK, who tested positive for COVID-19 and has been in isolation since Monday.

English-born wicketkeeper-batsman Josh Inglis set for Australia debut against Sri Lanka

Sir Andrew Strauss, the interim managing director of England Men`s Cricket has said that James Anderson and Stuart Broad might have been dropped but this does not mean the end of them as Three Lions players`.

England Men`s selection panel, consisting of Sir Andrew Strauss, interim head coach Paul Collingwood and head scout James Taylor, on Tuesday, named a 16-strong squad for the three-match Test tour of the Caribbean starting next month.

Eight players - James Anderson, Dom Bess, Sam Billings, Stuart Broad, Rory Burns, Jos Buttler, Haseeb Hameed, and Dawid Malan - who featured in the recent Ashes series, have missed out on selection.

"In respect of James Anderson and Stuart Broad, I want to emphasize this does not mean the end for them as England players.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-is-an-experiment-make-no-mistake-sunil-gavaskar-reacts-as-rishabh-pant-opens-in-2nd-odi-451676">This is an experiment, make no mistake: Sunil Gavaskar reacts as Rishabh Pant opens in 2nd ODI</a>

We feel that it is important to look at some exciting new bowling potential and give some added responsibility to other players who have featured previously. No one doubts the quality and experience that James and Stuart bring to the England set-up.

It will be up to the new managing director and permanent head coach to decide on whether they will be involved this summer and beyond," Strauss said in an official release.

Durham opener Alex Lees and Yorkshire seamer Matthew Fisher are called-up for the first time. Lees, 28, captained the Lions squad in Australia and has shown great potential in the LV= Insurance County Championship over the past few years with Durham and previously Yorkshire.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="Pakistan Test squad announced vs Australia, Shaun Tait appointed as Babar Azam &amp; Co.'s fast bowling coach">Pakistan Test squad announced vs Australia, Shaun Tait appointed as Babar Azam &amp; Co.'s fast bowling coach</a>

He scored 625 runs in last year`s Championship campaign, with the highest score of 129. The 24-year-old Fisher took 20 wickets for Yorkshire last season at an average of 19.65 from County Championship matches.

His control with the ball has impressed the England set-up for some time, and he was a stand-out performer for the Lions during the winter programme.

Alongside the new additions to the squad, the Lancashire duo of Saqib Mahmood and Matthew Parkinson will be aiming to make their Test debut in the Caribbean having featured in previous squads.

The three-match Test series forms part of the ICC World Test Championship. Joe Root`s team will be looking to climb the rankings after a disappointing start to the second edition of the Championship.

At the end of the two-year cycle, the top two teams will compete in the ICC World Test Championship Final due to be staged in 2023.

England squad: Joe Root (C), Jonny Bairstow, Zak Crawley, Matthew Fischer, Ben Foakes, Dan Lawrence, Jack Leach, Alex Lees, Saqib Mahmood, Craig Overton, Matthew Parkinson, Ollie Pope, Ollie Robinson, Ben Stokes, Chris Woakes, Mark Wood.

Sir Andrew Strauss, the interim managing director of England Men`s Cricket has said that James Anderson and Stuart Broad might have been dropped but this does not mean the end of them as Three Lions players`.

Sir Andrew Strauss, the interim managing director of England Men`s Cricket has said that James Anderson and Stuart Broad might have been dropped but this does not mean the end of them as Three Lions players`. England Men`s selection panel, consisting of Sir Andrew Strauss, interim head coach Paul Collingwood and head scout James Taylor, on Tuesday, named a 16-strong squad for the three-match Test tour of the Caribbean starting next month. Eight players - James Anderson, Dom Bess, Sam Billings, Stuart Broad, Rory Burns, Jos Buttler, Haseeb Hameed, and Dawid Malan - who featured in the recent Ashes series, have missed out on selection. "In respect of James Anderson and Stuart Broad, I want to emphasize this does not mean the end for them as England players. ALSO READ: This is an experiment, make no mistake: Sunil Gavaskar reacts as Rishabh Pant opens in 2nd ODI We feel that it is important to look at some exciting new bowling potential and give some added responsibility to other players who have featured previously. No one doubts the quality and experience that James and Stuart bring to the England set-up. It will be up to the new managing director and permanent head coach to decide on whether they will be involved this summer and beyond," Strauss said in an official release. Durham opener Alex Lees and Yorkshire seamer Matthew Fisher are called-up for the first time. Lees, 28, captained the Lions squad in Australia and has shown great potential in the LV= Insurance County Championship over the past few years with Durham and previously Yorkshire. ALSO READ: Pakistan Test squad announced vs Australia, Shaun Tait appointed as Babar Azam & Co.'s fast bowling coach He scored 625 runs in last year`s Championship campaign, with the highest score of 129. The 24-year-old Fisher took 20 wickets for Yorkshire last season at an average of 19.65 from County Championship matches. His control with the ball has impressed the England set-up for some time, and he was a stand-out performer for the Lions during the winter programme. Alongside the new additions to the squad, the Lancashire duo of Saqib Mahmood and Matthew Parkinson will be aiming to make their Test debut in the Caribbean having featured in previous squads. The three-match Test series forms part of the ICC World Test Championship. Joe Root`s team will be looking to climb the rankings after a disappointing start to the second edition of the Championship. At the end of the two-year cycle, the top two teams will compete in the ICC World Test Championship Final due to be staged in 2023. England squad: Joe Root (C), Jonny Bairstow, Zak Crawley, Matthew Fischer, Ben Foakes, Dan Lawrence, Jack Leach, Alex Lees, Saqib Mahmood, Craig Overton, Matthew Parkinson, Ollie Pope, Ollie Robinson, Ben Stokes, Chris Woakes, Mark Wood.

Anderson, Broad omission does not mean the end of them as Three Lions players: Andrew Strauss

Riding on half-centuries by Nishant Sindhu and Shaik Rasheed and clinical bowling performances from Raj Bawa and Ravi Kumar, India clinched a record-extending 5th U-19 World Cup title after beating England by four wickets in the final of the 2022 edition of the tournament at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, here on Saturday.

This is India`s record fifth title in the tournament`s history and came after previously winning it in 2000, 2008, 2012 and 2018. The Yash Dhull-led India U19 finished the tournament with an unbeaten run in the West Indies, flaunting the strength of the assembly line of Next-Gen India cricketers.

With this, Dhull joins the illustrious list of captains -- Mohammad Kaif (2000), Virat Kohli (2008), Unmukt Chand (2012), Prithvi Shaw (2018) -- who have lifted the U19 trophy for India in the past.

A superb bowling performance by Raj Bawa (5/31) and Ravi Kumar (4/34) helped India bowl out England for 189 despite a fighting fifty by James Rew (95). In reply, Shaik Rasheed (50 off 84) and Nishant Sindhu (50 not out off 54) smashed fifties while Raj Bawa (35 off 54) also played a vital knock and helped India chase the target in 47.4 overs, with four wickets in hand.&nbsp;

Chasing a challenging target, India were off to a poor start as left-arm pacer Joshua Boyden removed Angkrish Raghuvanshi for zero in the very second delivery of the innings. After losing Raghuvanshi early, Shaikh Rasheed and Harnoor Singh didn`t take too many risks and batted cautiously. The duo took India to 33/1 after 10 overs as England used three bowlers, including captain Tom Prest, in the first powerplay.

From there on, England dried the runs up by bowling some disciplined overs and backed that up with solid efforts in fielding. It was Thomas Aspinwall who gave England the big breakthrough by dismissing opener Harnoor Singh with an unplayable bouncer and ending a 49-run stand for the 2nd wicket.

Captain Yash Dhull, who played a match-winning knock of 110 runs against Australia in the semi-final, then joined vice-captain Rasheed at the crease. The asking rate was not too much but India were under a bit of pressure after that slow start. But Dhull and Shaikh Rasheed showed great composure and added runs quickly.

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No one is taking the trophy away from the India captain 😉<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/U19CWC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#U19CWC</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ENGvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ENGvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/GvYVAqMRQG">pic.twitter.com/GvYVAqMRQG</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1490084955384385542?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 5, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Rasheed, who took his time during the partnership with Harnoor, was more proactive between the two as he got to his fifty in 83 balls. However, he couldn`t carry his innings longer and got out to James Sales while going for a big hit. Soon, Sales dismissed Yash Dhull for 17 and helped England claw back in the match with India at 97 for 4 in 28.4 overs.

From there on, Raj Bawa and Nishant Sindhu joined hands to bail India out of the tricky situation. Both Bawa and Sindhu looked in solid touch and scored at a brisk rate, taking India closer to the target. It took 40 overs for India to hit their first six as Rehan Ahmed was launched over the long-on boundary by Nishant Sindhu, who hit the first six of the second innings to bring his 50-run partnership with Bawa.

With India needing 44 runs in the last 60 balls, Bawa changed gears and smashed a six and a four to turn things in India`s favour. In continuation of his aggressive batting, Bawa hit the ball straight to the mid-on fielder and departed after scoring 35 from 54 balls. However, Nishant Sindhu kept his nerves and hit a superb fifty, putting India on the cusp of victory. It was Raj Bawa -- the star of the day-- who hit a couple of sixes and took India over the victory line in style.

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That <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/U19CWC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#U19CWC</a> winning feeling 💙 <a href="https://t.co/wKk7BibxXh">pic.twitter.com/wKk7BibxXh</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1490090356557463553?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 5, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Earlier, England won the toss and opted to bat first, but they were off to a terrible start as they lost Jacob Bethell (2) in the second over of the innings. Bethell played for an in-swing but the ball bowled by Ravi Kumar kept its line and the England opener was trapped plumb in front of the wicket.

Captain Tom Prest, who came to bat first, didn`t trouble the scorers and got out a duck. He was also dismissed by Ravi Kumar, who bowled a short delivery and Prest dragged the ball onto the stumps, leaving England to 18-2 after 3.3 overs. Thereafter, George Thomas, who was playing counter-attacking shots looking to rebuild England`s innings along with James Rew after two early blows.

During the process, Kaushal Tambe dropped a straightforward catch at first slip as Thomas survived and Raj Bawa, the first change bowler, was denied a wicket.

However, the drop didn`t cost India that much as Bawa dismissed the dangerous Thomas for 27. Opener Thomas looked to put pressure on Bawa by hitting across the line in the first delivery of the 11th over but he got a leading edge and was caught inside the 30-yard circle.&nbsp;

Continuing his dreamy bowling spell, Raj Bawa soon got rid of Will Luxton and George Bell in two consecutive deliveries of the 13th over as England were five down for 47 runs. Things were not looking good for England; it got worse when Bawa picked his fourth wicket of the match, dismissing Rehan Ahmed (10), who edged the ball straight to the slips and Kaushal Tambe made no mistake.

Wickets were falling from one end but James Rew was holding the fort for England amid all the carnage. He along with Alex Horton hit a few much-needed boundaries and stitched a 30-run stand for the seventh wicket before the latter got out to spinner Kaushal Tambe for 10 in the 25th over of the innings.

At 91-7, it looked like England would get bowled out for a lower total but James Rew and James Sales stitched a solid partnership for the 8th wicket. Rew mixed aggression with caution and found the gaps with ease, scoring his fifty in 79 balls. He was well supported by Sales from the other end as the duo took England to 147/5 after 35 overs. On the other hand, India were looking desperate for a wicket as skipper Yash Dhull made multiple bowling changes.

It was Ravi Kumar, who brought India back into the game by taking two quick wickets in the 44th over. He first got rid of James Rew, who played a fantastic knock of 95, snapping a 93-run stand for the 8th wicket and then removed lower-order batter Thomas Aspinwall for a duck.

Raj Bawa then dismissed Joshua Boyden to take his five-fer as England were bowled out for 189 after 44.5 overs. James Sales remained not out after scoring 34 off 65.

Brief scores: England U-19: 189 all out in 44.5 overs (James Rew 95, James Sales 34; Raj Bawa 5/31, Ravi Kumar 4/34) lost to India U-19: 195-6 in 47.4 overs (Shaik Rasheed 50, Nishant Sindhu 50; Joshua Boyden 2/24) by four wickets 
&nbsp;

Riding on half-centuries by Nishant Sindhu and Shaik Rasheed and clinical bowling performances from Raj Bawa and Ravi Kumar, India clinched a record-extending 5th U-19 World Cup title after beating England by four wickets in the final of the 2022 edition of the tournament at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, here on Saturday.

Riding on half-centuries by Nishant Sindhu and Shaik Rasheed and clinical bowling performances from Raj Bawa and Ravi Kumar, India clinched a record-extending 5th U-19 World Cup title after beating England by four wickets in the final of the 2022 edition of the tournament at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, here on Saturday. This is India`s record fifth title in the tournament`s history and came after previously winning it in 2000, 2008, 2012 and 2018. The Yash Dhull-led India U19 finished the tournament with an unbeaten run in the West Indies, flaunting the strength of the assembly line of Next-Gen India cricketers. With this, Dhull joins the illustrious list of captains -- Mohammad Kaif (2000), Virat Kohli (2008), Unmukt Chand (2012), Prithvi Shaw (2018) -- who have lifted the U19 trophy for India in the past. A superb bowling performance by Raj Bawa (5/31) and Ravi Kumar (4/34) helped India bowl out England for 189 despite a fighting fifty by James Rew (95). In reply, Shaik Rasheed (50 off 84) and Nishant Sindhu (50 not out off 54) smashed fifties while Raj Bawa (35 off 54) also played a vital knock and helped India chase the target in 47.4 overs, with four wickets in hand. Chasing a challenging target, India were off to a poor start as left-arm pacer Joshua Boyden removed Angkrish Raghuvanshi for zero in the very second delivery of the innings. After losing Raghuvanshi early, Shaikh Rasheed and Harnoor Singh didn`t take too many risks and batted cautiously. The duo took India to 33/1 after 10 overs as England used three bowlers, including captain Tom Prest, in the first powerplay. From there on, England dried the runs up by bowling some disciplined overs and backed that up with solid efforts in fielding. It was Thomas Aspinwall who gave England the big breakthrough by dismissing opener Harnoor Singh with an unplayable bouncer and ending a 49-run stand for the 2nd wicket. Captain Yash Dhull, who played a match-winning knock of 110 runs against Australia in the semi-final, then joined vice-captain Rasheed at the crease. The asking rate was not too much but India were under a bit of pressure after that slow start. But Dhull and Shaikh Rasheed showed great composure and added runs quickly. No one is taking the trophy away from the India captain 😉#U19CWC | #ENGvIND pic.twitter.com/GvYVAqMRQG — ICC (@ICC) February 5, 2022 × Rasheed, who took his time during the partnership with Harnoor, was more proactive between the two as he got to his fifty in 83 balls. However, he couldn`t carry his innings longer and got out to James Sales while going for a big hit. Soon, Sales dismissed Yash Dhull for 17 and helped England claw back in the match with India at 97 for 4 in 28.4 overs. From there on, Raj Bawa and Nishant Sindhu joined hands to bail India out of the tricky situation. Both Bawa and Sindhu looked in solid touch and scored at a brisk rate, taking India closer to the target. It took 40 overs for India to hit their first six as Rehan Ahmed was launched over the long-on boundary by Nishant Sindhu, who hit the first six of the second innings to bring his 50-run partnership with Bawa. With India needing 44 runs in the last 60 balls, Bawa changed gears and smashed a six and a four to turn things in India`s favour. In continuation of his aggressive batting, Bawa hit the ball straight to the mid-on fielder and departed after scoring 35 from 54 balls. However, Nishant Sindhu kept his nerves and hit a superb fifty, putting India on the cusp of victory. It was Raj Bawa -- the star of the day-- who hit a couple of sixes and took India over the victory line in style. That #U19CWC winning feeling 💙 pic.twitter.com/wKk7BibxXh — ICC (@ICC) February 5, 2022 × Earlier, England won the toss and opted to bat first, but they were off to a terrible start as they lost Jacob Bethell (2) in the second over of the innings. Bethell played for an in-swing but the ball bowled by Ravi Kumar kept its line and the England opener was trapped plumb in front of the wicket. Captain Tom Prest, who came to bat first, didn`t trouble the scorers and got out a duck. He was also dismissed by Ravi Kumar, who bowled a short delivery and Prest dragged the ball onto the stumps, leaving England to 18-2 after 3.3 overs. Thereafter, George Thomas, who was playing counter-attacking shots looking to rebuild England`s innings along with James Rew after two early blows. During the process, Kaushal Tambe dropped a straightforward catch at first slip as Thomas survived and Raj Bawa, the first change bowler, was denied a wicket. However, the drop didn`t cost India that much as Bawa dismissed the dangerous Thomas for 27. Opener Thomas looked to put pressure on Bawa by hitting across the line in the first delivery of the 11th over but he got a leading edge and was caught inside the 30-yard circle. Continuing his dreamy bowling spell, Raj Bawa soon got rid of Will Luxton and George Bell in two consecutive deliveries of the 13th over as England were five down for 47 runs. Things were not looking good for England; it got worse when Bawa picked his fourth wicket of the match, dismissing Rehan Ahmed (10), who edged the ball straight to the slips and Kaushal Tambe made no mistake. Wickets were falling from one end but James Rew was holding the fort for England amid all the carnage. He along with Alex Horton hit a few much-needed boundaries and stitched a 30-run stand for the seventh wicket before the latter got out to spinner Kaushal Tambe for 10 in the 25th over of the innings. At 91-7, it looked like England would get bowled out for a lower total but James Rew and James Sales stitched a solid partnership for the 8th wicket. Rew mixed aggression with caution and found the gaps with ease, scoring his fifty in 79 balls. He was well supported by Sales from the other end as the duo took England to 147/5 after 35 overs. On the other hand, India were looking desperate for a wicket as skipper Yash Dhull made multiple bowling changes. It was Ravi Kumar, who brought India back into the game by taking two quick wickets in the 44th over. He first got rid of James Rew, who played a fantastic knock of 95, snapping a 93-run stand for the 8th wicket and then removed lower-order batter Thomas Aspinwall for a duck. Raj Bawa then dismissed Joshua Boyden to take his five-fer as England were bowled out for 189 after 44.5 overs. James Sales remained not out after scoring 34 off 65. Brief scores: England U-19: 189 all out in 44.5 overs (James Rew 95, James Sales 34; Raj Bawa 5/31, Ravi Kumar 4/34) lost to India U-19: 195-6 in 47.4 overs (Shaik Rasheed 50, Nishant Sindhu 50; Joshua Boyden 2/24) by four wickets

U-19 World Cup: India outclass England; clinch record-extending 5th title

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Tuesday released the final list of 590 players who are all set to go under the hammer at the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction on February 12 and 13. The final list consists of 228 capped, 355 uncapped and 7 players from the associate nations.

Despite the BCCI confirming the final list of players to go under the hammer, there remains uncertainty over the availability of some players from England and Australia. The board is yet to inform the ten franchises about the exact duration of the foreign players' participation in IPL 2022.

There are doubts over the availability of some England and Australia players due to international commitments. The upcoming season of the IPL is expected to begin in the last week of March, however, Australia will tour Pakistan in the same month with the white-ball series beginning from March 29. The matches will end on April 05.

If the likes of David Warner, Marcus Stoinis, Steve Smith and Pat Cummins among others are part of the tour, they will also miss at least the first week of action in IPL 2022. England, on the other hand, have a three-match home series against New Zealand beginning from June 02 and the ECB might call back a few Test-bound players in May to prepare for the Test series.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/warner-iyer-rabada-and-7-others-part-of-marquee-set-at-ipl-2022-mega-auction-see-full-list-449521">Warner, Iyer, Rabada and 7 others part of marquee set at IPL 2022 mega auction, see full list</a>

A number of top England players including the likes of Ben Stokes and Joe Root have already not registered from the IPL 2022 mega auction in the wake of their Ashes 2021-22 debacle as they aim to focus on improving in the longest format of the game.

A franchise official stated that the ten teams would have liked to know the availability status of the overseas players with the final auction list, however, the BCCI is yet to provide information on players' participation. The official said knowing the availability status of players helps in planning in a better manner.

"In an ideal scenario, we would have preferred to know the availability with the auction list," a franchise official was quoted as saying by Cricbuzz. "It helps in planning but there were occasions we were given this crucial the night before the auction," he added.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/370-indians-220-overseas-stars-up-for-grabs-complete-list-of-590-players-for-ipl-2022-mega-auction-449547">&nbsp;370 Indians, 220 overseas stars up for grabs: Complete list of 590 players for IPL 2022 mega auction</a>

The BCCI has informed the teams that it is working on providing the final&nbsp;availability details of the overseas players, which will be provided in due course ahead of the mega auction.

"The IPL 2022 Player Auction Rules and the availability details of Overseas players along with the update on the players who have been reported or banned for suspect bowling action will be sent in due course," the BCCI wrote to the franchises. 
&nbsp;

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Tuesday released the final list of 590 players who are all set to go under the hammer at the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction on February 12 and 13.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Tuesday released the final list of 590 players who are all set to go under the hammer at the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction on February 12 and 13. The final list consists of 228 capped, 355 uncapped and 7 players from the associate nations. Despite the BCCI confirming the final list of players to go under the hammer, there remains uncertainty over the availability of some players from England and Australia. The board is yet to inform the ten franchises about the exact duration of the foreign players' participation in IPL 2022. There are doubts over the availability of some England and Australia players due to international commitments. The upcoming season of the IPL is expected to begin in the last week of March, however, Australia will tour Pakistan in the same month with the white-ball series beginning from March 29. The matches will end on April 05. If the likes of David Warner, Marcus Stoinis, Steve Smith and Pat Cummins among others are part of the tour, they will also miss at least the first week of action in IPL 2022. England, on the other hand, have a three-match home series against New Zealand beginning from June 02 and the ECB might call back a few Test-bound players in May to prepare for the Test series. Also Read: Warner, Iyer, Rabada and 7 others part of marquee set at IPL 2022 mega auction, see full list A number of top England players including the likes of Ben Stokes and Joe Root have already not registered from the IPL 2022 mega auction in the wake of their Ashes 2021-22 debacle as they aim to focus on improving in the longest format of the game. A franchise official stated that the ten teams would have liked to know the availability status of the overseas players with the final auction list, however, the BCCI is yet to provide information on players' participation. The official said knowing the availability status of players helps in planning in a better manner. "In an ideal scenario, we would have preferred to know the availability with the auction list," a franchise official was quoted as saying by Cricbuzz. "It helps in planning but there were occasions we were given this crucial the night before the auction," he added. Also Read: 370 Indians, 220 overseas stars up for grabs: Complete list of 590 players for IPL 2022 mega auction The BCCI has informed the teams that it is working on providing the final availability details of the overseas players, which will be provided in due course ahead of the mega auction. "The IPL 2022 Player Auction Rules and the availability details of Overseas players along with the update on the players who have been reported or banned for suspect bowling action will be sent in due course," the BCCI wrote to the franchises.

IPL 2022: Uncertainity over availability of England, Australia players despite BCCI finialising auction list

When you fluff up pillows on your well-worn sofa, or turn your shirt sleeves up just-so, or sprinkle some spices over your morning eggs, you may be engaging in the art of the “jeuje.” Or is it “zhoosh”? Make that “zhuzh.”

However it’s spelled, the word is used to convey what is often hard to: the act of adding an extra something special, a little oomph, to a dish, hairdo, outfit or any number of things.

But where did it come from?

Theories abound online. A few have placed their bets on Yiddish. Others swear the term is Romani in origin, derived from the word “zhouzho,” meaning clean or neat. And still others insist that it is an expressive formation, like “whoosh.”

The most interesting origin story is also the one with the most historical backing. According to Paul Baker, a linguist at Lancaster University in England, the word can be traced to Polari, “a secret form of language, used mostly by gay men, which flourished in the early 20th century” in the United Kingdom.

According to Baker, who has written two books on Polari, including “Fantabulosa: A Dictionary of Polari and Gay Slang,” the language is the product of “a very complicated and nonlinear chain” of events. He said it probably began as workplace slang among British sailors, who, traveling abroad, encountered the lingua franca of mainland Europe — i.e., French — and brought it home.

Since sailors knew all manner of ropes, knots and rigging apparatus, they often took jobs on land as theater stagehands and circus performers. Polari thrived among Britain’s fairgrounds, circuses and markets, metabolizing words from here and there (including bits of Romani), then twisting — or zhuzhing — them up.

Some Polari terms are “back slang,” or existing words pronounced as if they were spelled backward (“riah” for “hair,” for instance). By the 20th century, Baker said, Polari was spoken throughout the gay community in Britain, which had been driven underground by the country’s laws policing sexual behavior.

Baker said the language allowed gay men to communicate frankly and identify one another, but with its irrepressible jauntiness, it also celebrated the customs and spirit of a marginalized community. “It was also used for general gossip, to be hilariously funny, and to ‘read’ people with the most cutting put-downs,” Baker said.

Jonathon Green, who has spent the past 40ish years working on a comprehensive online dictionary of slang, cited early usage of the word — spelled as “zhoosh”— in a 1977 article from the British newspaper Gay News: “We would zhoosh [‘fix’] our riahs [‘hair’], powder our eeks [‘faces’], climb into our bona [‘nice’] new drag [‘clothes’], don our batts [‘shoes’] and troll off [‘cruise’] to some bona bijou [‘nice, small’] bar.”

Baker puts weight on the theory that the word “may have come about due to its onomatopoeic qualities.” Originally, he wrote in an email, “it was used in a variety of contexts, e.g., to zhoosh off (to go away), to zhoosh a bevvy (to gulp down a drink), to steal something (a zhoosh bag was a swag bag).”

“It was gradually this ‘styling’ sense that became the dominant one, possibly because it was more useful for gay men,” Baker said.

In the 1960s, Polari shot to mainstream awareness thanks to BBC radio’s popular comedy program “Round the Horne,”&nbsp;which followed the campy adventures of out-of-work theater actors Julian and Sandy, played by Kenneth Williams and Hugh Paddick, gay icons of British entertainment.

“It was all double entendre, and hidden meaning, deeply wonderful stuff and no doubt would have thrilled anyone familiar with Polari, to hear it on the radio, and know what it meant,” Green said.

It is interesting to note that the word’s current resurgence can largely be attributed to that bastion of 21st-century gay culture, “Queer Eye for the Straight Guy,” on which viewers delighted in Carson Kressley admonishing his hapless new subject to “jeuje” up an ensemble by popping a collar or rolling up a sleeve. “It means to tweak it, making it better, giving it some personality, your own personal touch,” Kressley said. The show premiered in 2003; two years later, the Oxford English Dictionary added the word to its database, under the spelling “zhoosh.”

“Though some people credit me with the word, it was actually a word I learned working with Ralph Lauren and specifically Ralph and his brother Jerry who I worked directly with, styling looks,” Kressley said.

But while the origins of “zhuzh” may be a little clearer, the jury is as divided as ever on how to spell it. According to Google Trends, which tracks the popularity of search terms, “zhuzh” has far outpaced other alternative spellings in recent years (“jeuje” doesn’t rate at all), but that doesn’t make it the definitive spelling. In his book, Kressley himself spells it “tszuj.”

“I stupidly decided to make it very hard to spell,” he said. “I always thought it had an Eastern European Yiddish background, so I decided to throw in as many consonants as possible,” he said.

Slang has historically emerged through spoken language; words didn’t used to find their way into print until they’d been heavily codified. But with the birth of social media and meme culture, slang words are increasingly hitting our eyes before our ears.

“We are seeing slang words far earlier in their development nowadays,” said Emily Brewster, a senior editor and lexicographer at Merriam-Webster. “And the number of years that it takes a slang word, which is markedly informal, qualify for entry has decreased dramatically.”

In the 1950s, Brewster said, it took an average of 35 years for a word, once coined, to qualify for entry in the Merriam-Webster dictionary. Today, it is just 11 — or less. So is “zhuzh” destined for those storied pages anytime soon? “I can say it has not been drafted for entry,” Brewster said, “but it is definitely one we are watching, and one that is getting closer to entry.”

Ironically, when that day happens it might mark the end of the word’s appeal among the style-minded. “We don’t really enter a word until it’s ho-hum,” Brewster said, “until it’s like, ‘Nobody says zhuzh anymore.’”

When you fluff up pillows on your well-worn sofa, or turn your shirt sleeves up just-so, or sprinkle some spices over your morning eggs, you may be engaging in the art of the “jeuje.

When you fluff up pillows on your well-worn sofa, or turn your shirt sleeves up just-so, or sprinkle some spices over your morning eggs, you may be engaging in the art of the “jeuje.” Or is it “zhoosh”? Make that “zhuzh.” However it’s spelled, the word is used to convey what is often hard to: the act of adding an extra something special, a little oomph, to a dish, hairdo, outfit or any number of things. But where did it come from? Theories abound online. A few have placed their bets on Yiddish. Others swear the term is Romani in origin, derived from the word “zhouzho,” meaning clean or neat. And still others insist that it is an expressive formation, like “whoosh.” The most interesting origin story is also the one with the most historical backing. According to Paul Baker, a linguist at Lancaster University in England, the word can be traced to Polari, “a secret form of language, used mostly by gay men, which flourished in the early 20th century” in the United Kingdom. According to Baker, who has written two books on Polari, including “Fantabulosa: A Dictionary of Polari and Gay Slang,” the language is the product of “a very complicated and nonlinear chain” of events. He said it probably began as workplace slang among British sailors, who, traveling abroad, encountered the lingua franca of mainland Europe — i.e., French — and brought it home. Since sailors knew all manner of ropes, knots and rigging apparatus, they often took jobs on land as theater stagehands and circus performers. Polari thrived among Britain’s fairgrounds, circuses and markets, metabolizing words from here and there (including bits of Romani), then twisting — or zhuzhing — them up. Some Polari terms are “back slang,” or existing words pronounced as if they were spelled backward (“riah” for “hair,” for instance). By the 20th century, Baker said, Polari was spoken throughout the gay community in Britain, which had been driven underground by the country’s laws policing sexual behavior. Baker said the language allowed gay men to communicate frankly and identify one another, but with its irrepressible jauntiness, it also celebrated the customs and spirit of a marginalized community. “It was also used for general gossip, to be hilariously funny, and to ‘read’ people with the most cutting put-downs,” Baker said. Jonathon Green, who has spent the past 40ish years working on a comprehensive online dictionary of slang, cited early usage of the word — spelled as “zhoosh”— in a 1977 article from the British newspaper Gay News: “We would zhoosh [‘fix’] our riahs [‘hair’], powder our eeks [‘faces’], climb into our bona [‘nice’] new drag [‘clothes’], don our batts [‘shoes’] and troll off [‘cruise’] to some bona bijou [‘nice, small’] bar.” Baker puts weight on the theory that the word “may have come about due to its onomatopoeic qualities.” Originally, he wrote in an email, “it was used in a variety of contexts, e.g., to zhoosh off (to go away), to zhoosh a bevvy (to gulp down a drink), to steal something (a zhoosh bag was a swag bag).” “It was gradually this ‘styling’ sense that became the dominant one, possibly because it was more useful for gay men,” Baker said. In the 1960s, Polari shot to mainstream awareness thanks to BBC radio’s popular comedy program “Round the Horne,” which followed the campy adventures of out-of-work theater actors Julian and Sandy, played by Kenneth Williams and Hugh Paddick, gay icons of British entertainment. “It was all double entendre, and hidden meaning, deeply wonderful stuff and no doubt would have thrilled anyone familiar with Polari, to hear it on the radio, and know what it meant,” Green said. It is interesting to note that the word’s current resurgence can largely be attributed to that bastion of 21st-century gay culture, “Queer Eye for the Straight Guy,” on which viewers delighted in Carson Kressley admonishing his hapless new subject to “jeuje” up an ensemble by popping a collar or rolling up a sleeve. “It means to tweak it, making it better, giving it some personality, your own personal touch,” Kressley said. The show premiered in 2003; two years later, the Oxford English Dictionary added the word to its database, under the spelling “zhoosh.” “Though some people credit me with the word, it was actually a word I learned working with Ralph Lauren and specifically Ralph and his brother Jerry who I worked directly with, styling looks,” Kressley said. But while the origins of “zhuzh” may be a little clearer, the jury is as divided as ever on how to spell it. According to Google Trends, which tracks the popularity of search terms, “zhuzh” has far outpaced other alternative spellings in recent years (“jeuje” doesn’t rate at all), but that doesn’t make it the definitive spelling. In his book, Kressley himself spells it “tszuj.” “I stupidly decided to make it very hard to spell,” he said. “I always thought it had an Eastern European Yiddish background, so I decided to throw in as many consonants as possible,” he said. Slang has historically emerged through spoken language; words didn’t used to find their way into print until they’d been heavily codified. But with the birth of social media and meme culture, slang words are increasingly hitting our eyes before our ears. “We are seeing slang words far earlier in their development nowadays,” said Emily Brewster, a senior editor and lexicographer at Merriam-Webster. “And the number of years that it takes a slang word, which is markedly informal, qualify for entry has decreased dramatically.” In the 1950s, Brewster said, it took an average of 35 years for a word, once coined, to qualify for entry in the Merriam-Webster dictionary. Today, it is just 11 — or less. So is “zhuzh” destined for those storied pages anytime soon? “I can say it has not been drafted for entry,” Brewster said, “but it is definitely one we are watching, and one that is getting closer to entry.” Ironically, when that day happens it might mark the end of the word’s appeal among the style-minded. “We don’t really enter a word until it’s ho-hum,” Brewster said, “until it’s like, ‘Nobody says zhuzh anymore.’”

'Jeuje,' 'Zhoosh,' 'Zhuzh': A word of many spellings, and meanings

Former England all-rounder Tim Bresnan has announced his retirement from cricket, his County Club Warwickshire Cricket confirmed on Monday.

The 36-year-old had received his Warwickshire Cap in April last year and the player became a key part of the team through key contributions with bat and ball.

"This has been an incredibly tough decision, but after returning to winter training I feel that this is the right time. I have continued to work hard throughout the off-season to prepare for my 21st professional year, but deep down I feel I can`t reach the high standards that I set myself and my teammates," Bresnan said in a statement as per Warwickshire County Cricket Club (WCCC).

"The hunger and enthusiasm that I have for the game I love will never leave me, but whilst my head is willing to tackle the 2022 season, my body is not."

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/ricky-ponting-recalls-how-he-played-a-role-in-rohit-sharmas-appointment-as-mumbai-indians-captain-449203">Ricky Ponting recalls how he played a role in Rohit Sharma's appointment as Mumbai Indians captain</a>

I will always look back at my career with immense pride and it`s been an absolute honour to represent Warwickshire, my home county and country. Growing up I never would have believed how lucky I was to play with and against some of the finest cricketers to grace the game," he added.

As per Warwickshire Cricket, across his First-Class career, Bresnan scored 7,138 runs and picked 575 wickets with seven centuries and nine five-wicket hauls.

"I`m excited for my next chapter and am determined to throw everything into it, like I did on the cricket field for so many years," said Bresnan.

Bresnan was also part of the England side that secured the 2010 World Twenty20 trophy for the first time. At the international level, the right-hander went on to represent England in 142 matches, including 23 Tests, forming part of the team that won the 2010/11 Ashes in Australia and went to the top of the Test rankings in 2011.&nbsp;

Former England all-rounder Tim Bresnan has announced his retirement from cricket, his County Club Warwickshire Cricket confirmed on Monday. The 36-year-old had received his Warwickshire Cap in April last year and the player became a key part of the team through key contributions with bat and ball.

Former England all-rounder Tim Bresnan has announced his retirement from cricket, his County Club Warwickshire Cricket confirmed on Monday. The 36-year-old had received his Warwickshire Cap in April last year and the player became a key part of the team through key contributions with bat and ball. "This has been an incredibly tough decision, but after returning to winter training I feel that this is the right time. I have continued to work hard throughout the off-season to prepare for my 21st professional year, but deep down I feel I can`t reach the high standards that I set myself and my teammates," Bresnan said in a statement as per Warwickshire County Cricket Club (WCCC). "The hunger and enthusiasm that I have for the game I love will never leave me, but whilst my head is willing to tackle the 2022 season, my body is not." Read Also | Ricky Ponting recalls how he played a role in Rohit Sharma's appointment as Mumbai Indians captain I will always look back at my career with immense pride and it`s been an absolute honour to represent Warwickshire, my home county and country. Growing up I never would have believed how lucky I was to play with and against some of the finest cricketers to grace the game," he added. As per Warwickshire Cricket, across his First-Class career, Bresnan scored 7,138 runs and picked 575 wickets with seven centuries and nine five-wicket hauls. "I`m excited for my next chapter and am determined to throw everything into it, like I did on the cricket field for so many years," said Bresnan. Bresnan was also part of the England side that secured the 2010 World Twenty20 trophy for the first time. At the international level, the right-hander went on to represent England in 142 matches, including 23 Tests, forming part of the team that won the 2010/11 Ashes in Australia and went to the top of the Test rankings in 2011.

Former England all-rounder Tim Bresnan announces retirement

England fell agonisingly short of a record target in test cricket after Australia staged a remarkable fightback to draw the one-off women`s Ashes test at Canberra`s Manuka Oval on Sunday and take a 6-4 lead in the multi-format series.

Set 257 to win in 48 overs, the visitors had looked on their way to a famous victory on the back of a devastating 52-run stand between Natalie Sciver (58) and Sophia Dunkley (45) before late strikes from Australia meant they finished on 245-9.

The chase would have needed them to beat the previous best of 198 set by Australia more than a decade ago. 
On a final day that had its share of twists, England lost six wickets for 27 runs after Annabel Sutherland (3-69) and Alana King (2-39) turned the match in Australia`s favour with half an hour to go.

"Brilliant test match and I thoroughly enjoyed it," said England captain Heather Knight, who was named player of the match for her knocks of 168 not out and 48.

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"I don`t think it deserves a draw in the end, does it? But delighted the way the girls fought and it is really pleasing."

Australia earlier declared on 216-7 after resuming day four on 12-2, with Beth Mooney top-scoring with 63 and Ellyse Perry (41) and Ashleigh Gardner (38) making crucial contributions.

Australian skipper Meg Lanning said: "I still didn`t know what happened in the last hour. We declared wanting to take those 10 wickets. Obviously, England batted really well but proud of the way we got back into the game taking wickets."

The two sides next play a three-match one-day international series, which starts in Canberra on Thursday. England need to win all three games to regain the Ashes.

England fell agonisingly short of a record target in test cricket after Australia staged a remarkable fightback to draw the one-off women`s Ashes test at Canberra`s Manuka Oval on Sunday and take a 6-4 lead in the multi-format series.

England fell agonisingly short of a record target in test cricket after Australia staged a remarkable fightback to draw the one-off women`s Ashes test at Canberra`s Manuka Oval on Sunday and take a 6-4 lead in the multi-format series. Set 257 to win in 48 overs, the visitors had looked on their way to a famous victory on the back of a devastating 52-run stand between Natalie Sciver (58) and Sophia Dunkley (45) before late strikes from Australia meant they finished on 245-9. The chase would have needed them to beat the previous best of 198 set by Australia more than a decade ago. On a final day that had its share of twists, England lost six wickets for 27 runs after Annabel Sutherland (3-69) and Alana King (2-39) turned the match in Australia`s favour with half an hour to go. "Brilliant test match and I thoroughly enjoyed it," said England captain Heather Knight, who was named player of the match for her knocks of 168 not out and 48. Read Also | 'Fans are deprived': Pakistan great bats for Ind-Pak bilateral cricket to resume "I don`t think it deserves a draw in the end, does it? But delighted the way the girls fought and it is really pleasing." Australia earlier declared on 216-7 after resuming day four on 12-2, with Beth Mooney top-scoring with 63 and Ellyse Perry (41) and Ashleigh Gardner (38) making crucial contributions. Australian skipper Meg Lanning said: "I still didn`t know what happened in the last hour. We declared wanting to take those 10 wickets. Obviously, England batted really well but proud of the way we got back into the game taking wickets." The two sides next play a three-match one-day international series, which starts in Canberra on Thursday. England need to win all three games to regain the Ashes.

England miss record target against Australia as one-off women's Ashes Test ends in a draw

In what can be called signs of easing of staffing crisis in the health service, the absences among National Health Service (NHS) staff in England due to coronavirus have fallen by 22% last week, the figures showed. &nbsp;

The health leaders have&nbsp;cautioned that the staff is still under “intense” pressure. The situation was unlikely to change for months. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-to-stand-together-in-fight-against-dictatorships-britain-warns-putin-xi-446328" hreflang="en">West to stand together in fight against dictatorships, Britain warns Putin, Xi</a>

On an average day in the week to January 16, there were over 35,000 Covid absences. The count was down from around 46,000 the week prior to that. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The figures are still extremely high as compared to the levels before the Omicron surge. &nbsp;

In the beginning of December, there were just around 12,000 absences on an average day. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/19-year-old-zara-rutherford-becomes-youngest-woman-to-fly-solo-around-world-446369" hreflang="en">19-year-old Zara Rutherford becomes youngest woman to fly solo around world</a>

The absences for all kinds of reasons, including coronavirus, have reduced by 13%. The figure stands at 77,000 across the NHS. &nbsp;

Prof Stephen Powis, national medical director, NHS England, said, “Even though the numbers are going in the right direction, NHS staff will have many tough months ahead as they continue to deliver patient care while managing competing demands. While staff absences remain high and continue to increase in some parts of the country, it is good to see they have been reducing week on week. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In what can be called signs of easing of staffing crisis in the health service, the absences among National Health Service (NHS) staff in England due to coronavirus have fallen by 22% last week, the figures showed.

In what can be called signs of easing of staffing crisis in the health service, the absences among National Health Service (NHS) staff in England due to coronavirus have fallen by 22% last week, the figures showed. The health leaders have cautioned that the staff is still under “intense” pressure. The situation was unlikely to change for months. Also Read: West to stand together in fight against dictatorships, Britain warns Putin, Xi On an average day in the week to January 16, there were over 35,000 Covid absences. The count was down from around 46,000 the week prior to that. The figures are still extremely high as compared to the levels before the Omicron surge. In the beginning of December, there were just around 12,000 absences on an average day. Also Read: 19-year-old Zara Rutherford becomes youngest woman to fly solo around world The absences for all kinds of reasons, including coronavirus, have reduced by 13%. The figure stands at 77,000 across the NHS. Prof Stephen Powis, national medical director, NHS England, said, “Even though the numbers are going in the right direction, NHS staff will have many tough months ahead as they continue to deliver patient care while managing competing demands. While staff absences remain high and continue to increase in some parts of the country, it is good to see they have been reducing week on week. (With inputs from agencies)

Is crisis easing? England’s healthcare staff absences due to coronavirus fall by 22%

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