A detection dog unexpectedly found a new population of rare native rodents on the outskirts of Australia's Melbourne, as per Australian Associated Press reports.

Previously, the uncataloged broad-toothed rat population was discovered by a labrador. According to reports, the four-year-old dog called Moss found the rodent population while searching for Coranderrk Bushland near Healesville Sanctuary.

Moss at that time was searching in an area where he alerted his trainer pointing towards grass-filled, animal waste that was bright green in colour.

According to AAP reports, later, Zoos Victoria scientists confirmed that the new population discovered was from the broad-toothed rat, which was a native species known for its chubby cheeks, fluffy fur and short tail.

As per reports, the species is predominantly nocturnal and timid so it stayed disguised from researchers. However, a follow-up survey of the area found three of the animals.

It's the closest known broad-toothed rat population to Melbourne and the only one in Australia behind a predator-proof fence, according to the reports.

Zoos Victoria's Sakib Kazi said though the rats were notoriously hard to trap but adorable.

"I challenge you to have a look at their face and not immediately fall in love," he said.

"They are seriously, seriously cute."

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/hidden-depths-homeless-man-creates-secret-home-in-los-angeles-underground-vault-raising-safety-concerns-613677"> 'Hidden depths': Homeless man creates secret home in Los Angeles underground vault</a>

Wildlife detection dog officer, Dr La Toya Jamieson said Moss was trained to associate the smell of broad-toothed rat scat with having a party.

"So lots of pats, lots of cuddles, lots of food, which he very much loves," she said.

"And then (we) started putting that broad-toothed rat scat in the environment for him to find."

With the help of live rats since their finding, Moss has been acquainted to potentially help recover the creatures if they come under threat from bushfires.

Due to predators like fox and cats, habitat destruction, bushfires and climate change, the population of rats have witnessed a decline.

Last year, the species was discovered in Victoria for the very first time in more than three decades at Wilson's Promontory. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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A detection dog unexpectedly found a new population of rare native rodents on the outskirts of Australia's Melbourne, as per Australian Associated Press reports.

A detection dog unexpectedly found a new population of rare native rodents on the outskirts of Australia's Melbourne, as per Australian Associated Press reports. Previously, the uncataloged broad-toothed rat population was discovered by a labrador. According to reports, the four-year-old dog called Moss found the rodent population while searching for Coranderrk Bushland near Healesville Sanctuary. Moss at that time was searching in an area where he alerted his trainer pointing towards grass-filled, animal waste that was bright green in colour. According to AAP reports, later, Zoos Victoria scientists confirmed that the new population discovered was from the broad-toothed rat, which was a native species known for its chubby cheeks, fluffy fur and short tail. As per reports, the species is predominantly nocturnal and timid so it stayed disguised from researchers. However, a follow-up survey of the area found three of the animals. It's the closest known broad-toothed rat population to Melbourne and the only one in Australia behind a predator-proof fence, according to the reports. Zoos Victoria's Sakib Kazi said though the rats were notoriously hard to trap but adorable. "I challenge you to have a look at their face and not immediately fall in love," he said. "They are seriously, seriously cute." Also read: 'Hidden depths': Homeless man creates secret home in Los Angeles underground vault Wildlife detection dog officer, Dr La Toya Jamieson said Moss was trained to associate the smell of broad-toothed rat scat with having a party. "So lots of pats, lots of cuddles, lots of food, which he very much loves," she said. "And then (we) started putting that broad-toothed rat scat in the environment for him to find." With the help of live rats since their finding, Moss has been acquainted to potentially help recover the creatures if they come under threat from bushfires. Due to predators like fox and cats, habitat destruction, bushfires and climate change, the population of rats have witnessed a decline. Last year, the species was discovered in Victoria for the very first time in more than three decades at Wilson's Promontory. (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.

Rare chubby cheek rodents unexpectedly uncovered in Australia's Melbourne

Two factories caught massive fire in Melbourne, Australia on Thursday. Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) crews reached the site on Clarendon St, near Haigh St in Southbank around 4 pm. According to reports, two small factories had caught fire and 30 firefighters had gathered to control it.

Australia: Massive fire engulfs two factories in Melbourne

Two factories caught massive fire in Melbourne, Australia on Thursday. Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) crews reached the site on Clarendon St, near Haigh St in Southbank around 4 pm. According to FRV, two small factories had caught fire and 30 firefighters had gathered to control it.&nbsp;

No one was present inside the buildings, however, paramedics were present on the scene. “FRV will do a thorough search when able,” stated FRV. The Victoria Police had also reached the site.&nbsp;

A warning was issued by VicEmergency for residents in Albert Park, Docklands, Melbourne, Port Melbourne, South Melbourne, South Wharf and Southbank for a large amount of smoke.&nbsp;

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Building fire Melbourne Southbank <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/melbourne?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#melbourne</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/melbournenews?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#melbournenews</a> <a href="https://t.co/fmfd8fbSPg">pic.twitter.com/fmfd8fbSPg</a>
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“Smoke will be visible from nearby roads and communities. There is currently no threat to the community, but you should continue to stay informed and monitor conditions. Those in high-rise apartments in the area should close doors and windows to prevent smoke from entering their premises,” said the emergency authority.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/firefighters-light-pallets-on-fire-during-independence-day-celebrations-in-massachusetts-612221">Firefighters set pallets on fire during Independence Day celebrations in Massachusetts</a>

<h2>Officials issue warning</h2>

Meanwhile, officials also issued a community warning, appealing to people to avoid the area on Clarendon St between Crown Casino and Citylink. The police officials have closed the intersection of Clarendon St and City Road,&nbsp;Southbank in all directions.

"Clarendon Street, Southbank is closed to traffic and trams in both directions between City Road and Whiteman Street, due to a building fire,"&nbsp;said Vic Traffic, in a statement.&nbsp;

The officials have asked motorists to use Kings Way or Queens Bridge to leave the Central Business District, Melbourne. "Motorists are asked to avoid travelling in the area where possible, using Kings Way or Queens Bridge Street to leave the CBD," the statement added.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;New Zealand fire: At least 10 killed, many injured after fire in a hostel in Wellington | WION

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“There is heavy congestion on surrounding roads including Whiteman St, Normanby Rd, York St and Montague St,” said the transport department said.

“This incident and road closure is under the control of emergency services. The intersection will only re-open when it’s safe to do so," it added.&nbsp;

Several citizens shared photos and videos of the fire on social media platforms, with one man stating that there had "been a lot of small fires recently, despite police inspections recently".&nbsp;

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Two factories caught massive fire in Melbourne, Australia on Thursday. Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) crews reached the site on Clarendon St, near Haigh St in Southbank around 4 pm.

Two factories caught massive fire in Melbourne, Australia on Thursday. Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) crews reached the site on Clarendon St, near Haigh St in Southbank around 4 pm. According to FRV, two small factories had caught fire and 30 firefighters had gathered to control it. No one was present inside the buildings, however, paramedics were present on the scene. “FRV will do a thorough search when able,” stated FRV. The Victoria Police had also reached the site. A warning was issued by VicEmergency for residents in Albert Park, Docklands, Melbourne, Port Melbourne, South Melbourne, South Wharf and Southbank for a large amount of smoke. Building fire Melbourne Southbank #melbourne #melbournenews pic.twitter.com/fmfd8fbSPg — Ashley Gordon (@AG8511B) July 6, 2023 × “Smoke will be visible from nearby roads and communities. There is currently no threat to the community, but you should continue to stay informed and monitor conditions. Those in high-rise apartments in the area should close doors and windows to prevent smoke from entering their premises,” said the emergency authority. ALSO READ | Firefighters set pallets on fire during Independence Day celebrations in Massachusetts Officials issue warning Meanwhile, officials also issued a community warning, appealing to people to avoid the area on Clarendon St between Crown Casino and Citylink. The police officials have closed the intersection of Clarendon St and City Road, Southbank in all directions. "Clarendon Street, Southbank is closed to traffic and trams in both directions between City Road and Whiteman Street, due to a building fire," said Vic Traffic, in a statement. The officials have asked motorists to use Kings Way or Queens Bridge to leave the Central Business District, Melbourne. "Motorists are asked to avoid travelling in the area where possible, using Kings Way or Queens Bridge Street to leave the CBD," the statement added. WATCH | New Zealand fire: At least 10 killed, many injured after fire in a hostel in Wellington | WION “There is heavy congestion on surrounding roads including Whiteman St, Normanby Rd, York St and Montague St,” said the transport department said. “This incident and road closure is under the control of emergency services. The intersection will only re-open when it’s safe to do so," it added. Several citizens shared photos and videos of the fire on social media platforms, with one man stating that there had "been a lot of small fires recently, despite police inspections recently". You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Massive fire engulfs two factories in Melbourne, Australia

A Melbourne nightclub in Australia has become the centre of a raging controversy after it brought live reptiles, including snakes and a baby crocodile, for its relaunch over the weekend.

A Melbourne nightclub in Australia has become the centre of a raging controversy after it brought live reptiles, including snakes and a baby crocodile, for its relaunch over the weekend. The club named Two Wrongs, located on Chapel Street in South Yarra, had a relaunch party to which several social media influencers were invited. The influencers could be seen holding snakes and baby crocodiles and posing for the cameras. Two Wrongs' Instagram page was flooded with pictures as the club attempted to drive its popularity. However, as soon as the images went viral, it brought severe online backlash as netizens slammed the club and influencers for putting the animals in harm's way. After the backlash, the images and videos of the reptiles vanished from the club's online media accounts. However, netizens managed to save the pictures and shamed the club and the influencers for their actions. "Use of animals as a promotional tool in an incredibly frightening environment for them is disgusting and cruel," one person wrote while another added, "Passing around animals in a bar is just cruel. Great rebrand." "Those poor animals would have been so frightened," a third commented, while one wrote, "This is ridiculous. Terrible environment for these animals." WATCH | Australia woman survives five days in bush drinking only wine | Trending on WION × Conservation regulator opens investigation Meanwhile, Victoria's conservation regulator, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA), took cognisance of the incident and referred the matter to the Victorian Department of Energy, Environment, and Climate Action (Deeca) for further action. “As the animals involved are native wildlife, the reports have been referred through to [Deeca],” an RSPCA spokesperson was quoted as saying by The Guardian. “Anyone with information about this incident or cases of wildlife crime is urged to contact Crime Stoppers Victoria,” they added. ALSO READ | Pencil given to Hitler by partner could fetch nearly $99,000 in auction: Report According to RSPCA policy, any display of wild animals must be properly supervised and controlled. Since reptiles are sensitive to vibrations and loud music, it looks highly unlikely that proper permission was sought to display them at the club. George Purcell, an MP from the Animal Justice party, wrote a letter to the minister for environment, Ingrid Stitt and requested prompt action. “Animals have no place in nightclubs. The government and environment department must use this opportunity to send a strong message that animals are not props to be passed around for photo opportunities and ensure this never happens again," read her letter. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Melbourne club slammed for using live reptiles at relaunch party

A 3.8 magnitude earthquake, considered to be one of the most powerful quakes to have rocked the city in over 120 years, shook the north-western suburb of Melbourne's Sunbury on Sunday night.

As per Geoscience Australia, the temblor struck 3km deep of Sunbury at about 11.40 pm on Sunday.

No serious injuries have been reported however, Victoria's State Emergency Service (SES) has been called to probe damage to multiple buildings.&nbsp;

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This map shows how far &amp; wide the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/earthquake?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#earthquake</a> in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Melbourne?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Melbourne</a> has been felt. We've had 21,386 reports so far - some as far north as Bendigo &amp; as far south as Hobart. <a href="https://t.co/c9M3aKxQQi">https://t.co/c9M3aKxQQi</a> <a href="https://t.co/zADq94efoa">pic.twitter.com/zADq94efoa</a>
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&nbsp;

The SES has also urged people to prepare for aftershocks that as per the department are quite likely to occur.

Seismologist Adam Pascale, from the Seismology Research Centre, said that the earthquake was so strong that it woke him up and got him out of bed.

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This magnitude 4.0 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/earthquake?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#earthquake</a> in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Melbourne?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Melbourne</a>’s north, whose epicentre was about 25km from my home, decided to wake me up just before midnight so I could spend the first few minutes of my birthday working out how to go Live on Twitter!🤦‍♂️ <a href="https://t.co/h3g5XDCp6A">pic.twitter.com/h3g5XDCp6A</a>
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<h2>Rare 6.0 magnitude earthquake hit Melbourne</h2>

In the year 2021, a rare 6.0 magnitude earthquake struck Melbourne causing damage to buildings.

The epicentre was near Mansfield, a rural town in the state of Victoria. The town is about 200 km northeast of Melbourne. The epicentre was at a depth of 10 km. An aftershock of intensity 4.0 was recorded. The earthquake was felt as far as Adelaide and Sydney.&nbsp;

Quakes are relatively unusual in Australia's populated east due to its position in the middle of the Indo-Australian Tectonic Plate, according to Geoscience Australia. The quake on Wednesday measured higher than the country's deadliest tremor, a 5.6 in Newcastle in 1989, which resulted in 13 deaths.

<h2>Earthquake of 7.7 magnitude hits New Caledonia, triggers tsunami warning in South Pacific</h2>

A 7.7 magnitude earthquake hit the southeast of the Loyalty Islands in the French territory of New Caledonia on May 19 and triggered tsunami warnings to nations in the South Pacific. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Centre (PTWC) issued warnings for Vanuatu and Fiji while Australia's meteorological agency issued a warning for Lord Howe Island off its east coast. A tsunami alert that was issued in New Caledonia was lifted later as per an official.&nbsp;

"Based on the preliminary earthquake parameters, hazardous tsunami waves are possible for coasts within 1,000 km (620 miles) of the earthquake epicentre," the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center said in a bulletin.

It advised residents in endangered coastal regions to exercise caution. In the city of Noumea in New Caledonia, a hotel receptionist told AFP she felt no shaking from the tremor.

The United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported that the earthquake occurred at a depth of roughly 24 miles or 38 km. According to New Zealand, the country was still determining if the earthquake put its coasts in danger from tsunamis.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A 3.8 magnitude earthquake, considered to be one of the most powerful quakes to have rocked the city in over 120 years, shook the north-western suburb of Melbourne's Sunbury on Sunday night.

A 3.8 magnitude earthquake, considered to be one of the most powerful quakes to have rocked the city in over 120 years, shook the north-western suburb of Melbourne's Sunbury on Sunday night. As per Geoscience Australia, the temblor struck 3km deep of Sunbury at about 11.40 pm on Sunday. No serious injuries have been reported however, Victoria's State Emergency Service (SES) has been called to probe damage to multiple buildings. This map shows how far & wide the #earthquake in #Melbourne has been felt. We've had 21,386 reports so far - some as far north as Bendigo & as far south as Hobart. https://t.co/c9M3aKxQQi pic.twitter.com/zADq94efoa — Geoscience Australia (@GeoscienceAus) May 28, 2023 × The SES has also urged people to prepare for aftershocks that as per the department are quite likely to occur. Seismologist Adam Pascale, from the Seismology Research Centre, said that the earthquake was so strong that it woke him up and got him out of bed. This magnitude 4.0 #earthquake in #Melbourne’s north, whose epicentre was about 25km from my home, decided to wake me up just before midnight so I could spend the first few minutes of my birthday working out how to go Live on Twitter!🤦‍♂️ pic.twitter.com/h3g5XDCp6A — Adam Pascale (@SeisLOLogist) May 28, 2023 × Rare 6.0 magnitude earthquake hit Melbourne In the year 2021, a rare 6.0 magnitude earthquake struck Melbourne causing damage to buildings. The epicentre was near Mansfield, a rural town in the state of Victoria. The town is about 200 km northeast of Melbourne. The epicentre was at a depth of 10 km. An aftershock of intensity 4.0 was recorded. The earthquake was felt as far as Adelaide and Sydney. Quakes are relatively unusual in Australia's populated east due to its position in the middle of the Indo-Australian Tectonic Plate, according to Geoscience Australia. The quake on Wednesday measured higher than the country's deadliest tremor, a 5.6 in Newcastle in 1989, which resulted in 13 deaths. Earthquake of 7.7 magnitude hits New Caledonia, triggers tsunami warning in South Pacific A 7.7 magnitude earthquake hit the southeast of the Loyalty Islands in the French territory of New Caledonia on May 19 and triggered tsunami warnings to nations in the South Pacific. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Centre (PTWC) issued warnings for Vanuatu and Fiji while Australia's meteorological agency issued a warning for Lord Howe Island off its east coast. A tsunami alert that was issued in New Caledonia was lifted later as per an official. "Based on the preliminary earthquake parameters, hazardous tsunami waves are possible for coasts within 1,000 km (620 miles) of the earthquake epicentre," the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center said in a bulletin. It advised residents in endangered coastal regions to exercise caution. In the city of Noumea in New Caledonia, a hotel receptionist told AFP she felt no shaking from the tremor. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported that the earthquake occurred at a depth of roughly 24 miles or 38 km. According to New Zealand, the country was still determining if the earthquake put its coasts in danger from tsunamis. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Australia: 3.8 magnitude earthquake hits Melbourne, breaks 120-year record

Police in Australia are investigating a case where 65 women received used condoms in their mails along with handwritten messages. The letters were dispatched by an anonymous sender to addresses across Melbourne’s east and southeast. All of the incidents have happened over the past three months. Police believe all the victims are linked and part of a targeted attack.&nbsp;

Interestingly, all of them attended the city's Kilbreda College private girls' school in 1999, which indicates that their addresses must have been obtained from an old school yearbook.

<h2>Key points</h2>

<ol>
	<li>65 women received letters with used condoms in Australia.</li>
	<li>Police say the victims are linked to a “targeted attack”.</li>
	<li>All the women attended Melbourne’s Kilbreda College private girls' school in 1999.</li>
	<li>The Bayside Sexual Offences and Child Abuse Investigation Team is investigating the case.</li>
	<li>Police are supposed to hold a press conference on Wednesday.</li>
</ol>

<h2>Some women received multiple letters</h2>

"It is believed that most of those who reported the material have received multiple letters, all with the suspected used item included," Police said in a statement. "Officers believe the victims are linked and are part of a targeted attack," the statement added.

Watch:&nbsp;Trending on WION: Australia wants to make cigarettes 'ugly' and 'tasteless'

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One victim was quoted by Australia’s Herald Sun as saying that she received a letter with “very graphic (handwritten) messages”, following which she tried to contact her friends. “I didn’t sleep the night I received the letter, it really creeped me out,” the woman said, adding that this was extremely unnerving and some of the women have even received four letters.&nbsp;

<h2>Investigation going on&nbsp;</h2>

The Australian reported that the Bayside Sexual Offences and Child Abuse Investigation Team was investigating the case. Police officials have also urged people having any information related to the case to come forward and help authorities find the culprit.

The authorities are supposed to hold a press conference later on Wednesday to brief the public about the case.

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Police in Australia are investigating a case where 65 women received used condoms in their mails along with handwritten messages. The letters were dispatched by an anonymous sender to addresses across Melbourne’s east and southeast.

Police in Australia are investigating a case where 65 women received used condoms in their mails along with handwritten messages. The letters were dispatched by an anonymous sender to addresses across Melbourne’s east and southeast. All of the incidents have happened over the past three months. Police believe all the victims are linked and part of a targeted attack. Interestingly, all of them attended the city's Kilbreda College private girls' school in 1999, which indicates that their addresses must have been obtained from an old school yearbook. Key points 65 women received letters with used condoms in Australia. Police say the victims are linked to a “targeted attack”. All the women attended Melbourne’s Kilbreda College private girls' school in 1999. The Bayside Sexual Offences and Child Abuse Investigation Team is investigating the case. Police are supposed to hold a press conference on Wednesday. Some women received multiple letters "It is believed that most of those who reported the material have received multiple letters, all with the suspected used item included," Police said in a statement. "Officers believe the victims are linked and are part of a targeted attack," the statement added. Watch: Trending on WION: Australia wants to make cigarettes 'ugly' and 'tasteless' × One victim was quoted by Australia’s Herald Sun as saying that she received a letter with “very graphic (handwritten) messages”, following which she tried to contact her friends. “I didn’t sleep the night I received the letter, it really creeped me out,” the woman said, adding that this was extremely unnerving and some of the women have even received four letters. Investigation going on The Australian reported that the Bayside Sexual Offences and Child Abuse Investigation Team was investigating the case. Police officials have also urged people having any information related to the case to come forward and help authorities find the culprit. The authorities are supposed to hold a press conference later on Wednesday to brief the public about the case. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Who is mailing used condoms to Australian women? Police open investigation 

A group of neo-Nazi men have been photographed performing the abhorrent Hitler salute as they celebrated the dictator's birthday at a family pub in Melbourne, Australia.

A group of neo-Nazi men have been photographed performing the abhorrent Hitler salute as they celebrated the dictator's birthday at a family pub in Melbourne, Australia. The photograph showed 20-odd men attending the event at the Bavarian, a German-themed outlet in Knox City Shopping Centre and raising their hands in a Nazi salute. One participant held a portrait of Hitler while two others held 'H' letter-shaped balloons, allegedly referring to the phrase 'Heil Hitler' which is often recited practicing the salute. Neo-Nazi leader Thomas Sewell who also heads the National Socialist Network was an attendee at the event. He took to his Telegram account and said it was a 'great and eventful' night celebrating Hitler's 134th birthday as the group enjoyed German food and beer. “Despite not breaking any laws and not disturbing a soul, we were set upon by a dozen scum from Victoria Police who were terribly upset we were celebrating this holy day instead of the government approved gay or paedophile holidays,” read the Telegram post. Sewell claimed that the likes of his neo-Nazi friends were being persecuted by civil society and that Hitler's truth would soon be out. “Being confronted by systemic violence while our families and babies were present we were forced to eat our Hitler cake while being escorted from the shopping centre under threat of political violence," he wrote. “They persecute us because they know we are rising and the world will learn the truth about Hitler and look to us for leadership.” Dark day for Australia's democracy After the images went viral, Dr Dvir Abramovich, chair of the Anti-Defamation Commission (ADC) released a statement condemning the act and called it a 'sad and dark day for Australia's democracy'. "Something is very wrong in Victoria, and we should be all alarmed by this brazen and stomach-churning outrage that will forever be a stain on our state," Abramovich was quoted as saying by Dail Mail Australia. “This beyond despicable display of Hitler worshipping and depravity belongs in Nazi Germany of the 1930s, not in a local restaurant where parents and children gather.” WATCH | Adolf Hitler's ancestry in focus, Russia says Hitler had Jewish roots × Hitler and his anti-Semitic views Adolf Hitler ruled Germany from 1933 to 1945 with an iron fist. In a quest to create the perfect Aryan race, Hitler started the holocaust of Jews. It is reported that during his tenure, Hitler massacred over 11 million people, of which six million were Jews. ALSO READ | Do you know who bought Adolf Hitler's watch? A European Jew Hitler loathed Jews ever since Germany lost the first World War. As he climbed the political ladder, his hate for Jews continued to rise. Once Hitler became the chancellor, he pushed his vile anti-Semitic ideas vehemently amongst the masses. He made the ordinary Germans believe that the genocide of Jews was the right way for Germany to achieve its full socioeconomic potential. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Group of neo-Nazis celebrates Hitler's birthday, raise their arms to salute dictator

A technicality led Melbourne to dethrone Sydney as Australia’s largest city by population. For at least 100 years, Sydney held the title with aplomb. But after the officials redrew the borders the Melbourne, which is the capital of the state of Victoria, to include Melton district, Sydney was relegated to second place.

According to Australia’s federal government’s latest population figures, Melbourne's population is 44.8 million, which is 18,700 more than Sydney's.

"With the amalgamation of Melton into Melbourne in the latest... classification, Melbourne has more people than Sydney - and has had since 2018, " the ABS's Andrew Howe told the Sydney Morning Herald newspaper - which described the redrawn boundary as "a technicality".

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, a city is defined as a "significant urban area", which is connected to all suburbs with more than 10,000 people.

It is estimated that Melbourne will reach 6 million population by mid-2031 – rising to 6.1 million the following year. While Sydney is forecast to pass the 6 million mark in 2032-33.

One of the primary reasons attributed for this change in demography is the net internal migration from within and outside of the country.

&nbsp;“It’s because more people have been moving out of Sydney, going to other parts of Australia, than have been moving in the opposite direction. Whereas in the case of Melbourne, in some years more people have moved to Melbourne than have moved out,” Nick Parr, a professor of demography at Macquarie University, explained to Sydney radio station 2GB.

“But the projections show that Sydney’s population will continue to grow, and also the Melbourne population will continue to grow,” he said, adding that immigration will “compensate” for the effects of low birth rates in both cities.

Australian National University demographer Liz Allen told the BBC that Melbourne's rapid growth is largely thanks to international migration.

He noted that unlike Sydney, which has a "historical hangover" of a time when "it didn't want to be seen as anything other than white", Melbourne has a reputation for celebrating diversity.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A technicality led Melbourne to dethrone Sydney as Australia’s largest city by population. For at least 100 years, Sydney held the title with aplomb. But after the officials redrew the borders the Melbourne, which is the capital of the state of Victoria, to include Melton district, Sydney was relegated to second place.

A technicality led Melbourne to dethrone Sydney as Australia’s largest city by population. For at least 100 years, Sydney held the title with aplomb. But after the officials redrew the borders the Melbourne, which is the capital of the state of Victoria, to include Melton district, Sydney was relegated to second place. According to Australia’s federal government’s latest population figures, Melbourne's population is 44.8 million, which is 18,700 more than Sydney's. "With the amalgamation of Melton into Melbourne in the latest... classification, Melbourne has more people than Sydney - and has had since 2018, " the ABS's Andrew Howe told the Sydney Morning Herald newspaper - which described the redrawn boundary as "a technicality". According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, a city is defined as a "significant urban area", which is connected to all suburbs with more than 10,000 people. It is estimated that Melbourne will reach 6 million population by mid-2031 – rising to 6.1 million the following year. While Sydney is forecast to pass the 6 million mark in 2032-33. One of the primary reasons attributed for this change in demography is the net internal migration from within and outside of the country. “It’s because more people have been moving out of Sydney, going to other parts of Australia, than have been moving in the opposite direction. Whereas in the case of Melbourne, in some years more people have moved to Melbourne than have moved out,” Nick Parr, a professor of demography at Macquarie University, explained to Sydney radio station 2GB. “But the projections show that Sydney’s population will continue to grow, and also the Melbourne population will continue to grow,” he said, adding that immigration will “compensate” for the effects of low birth rates in both cities. Australian National University demographer Liz Allen told the BBC that Melbourne's rapid growth is largely thanks to international migration. He noted that unlike Sydney, which has a "historical hangover" of a time when "it didn't want to be seen as anything other than white", Melbourne has a reputation for celebrating diversity. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Melbourne dethrones Sydney as Australia’s largest city, thanks to a technicality  

Explore Australia's Melbourne city with WION Traveller. Join WION's Johan Castell as he travels through Victoria's Melbourne and features the best things to do while visiting the city, hosted by Visit Victoria. We show you what a tour to the Melbourne Cricket Ground looks like, and visit the heritage Queen Victoria Market and take a tour with the official tour guide Mercellez. A visit to the Brighton Bathing Boxes and digging into their background is also included. Let's not forget the food available in the city, we go on a long foodie's tour of the city that lasts an entire afternoon before finishing off at the upmarket Farmer's Daughters restaurant in the Central Business District of Melbourne.

Exploring Melbourne - Highlights of visiting Victoria | WION Traveller

Pro-transgender rights activists clashed with a far-right Neo-Nazi organization in the city of Melbourne in Australia outside the Parliament building. Several men belonging to the Neo-Nazi group were seen dressed in black and performing a Nazi salute outside the building.

Transgender rights activists clash with Neo-Nazi's in Melbourne

A Victorian judge removed a breastfeeding mother and her baby from the court and explained his action as 'self-explanatory.'&nbsp;

On Thursday, a woman in Melbourne's county court was breastfeeding her baby during a trial. The judge asked her directly to leave the courtroom. He stated the court does not allow breastfeeding because it becomes a 'distraction.' The county court has refused to comment on the incident.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="www.wionews.com/world/showing-middle-finger-a-constitutional-right-in-canada-judge-declares-in-a-26-page-decision-570473">Showing middle finger a constitutional right in Canada, judge declares in a 26-page decision</a>

On Friday, the judge addressed the jury and said his comments should be 'self-explanatory.' "Madam, you will not be permitted to breastfeed the baby in court. I'm sorry. I will have to ask you to leave. It will be a distraction for the jury at the very least," he said to the jury, stating what he told the mother.&nbsp;

Jaclyn Symes, State's Attorney General, might discuss the matter with the court. "These concerning reports are a matter for the county court," a spokesperson for Symes said. "However, no woman deserves to be shamed and humiliated for public breastfeeding," they added.

Ingrid Stitt, Minister for Early Childhood, also commented on the incident on Friday. She told reporters, "In 2023, it's extraordinary that this has happened. It's really disappointing." She added, "The message for Victorian women is we support you and your right to be able to care for your children." Stitt referred to breastfeeding as a 'celebration.'

WATCH |&nbsp;Corinne Diacre: France sack head coach four months before Women's World Cup

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&nbsp;

"We've tried so hard to get past so many barriers for women who want to breastfeed and to have this happen in a court of law is just not acceptable at all," said Dr Nisha Knot, a Melbourne obstetrician. She called the incident 'appalling.'

Pregnant and breastfeeding women are 'protected' in areas of public life, including work, schools, universities, shops or rental properties, under Victoria's Equal Opportunity Act. However, it is ambiguous if these protections apply in court.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A Victorian judge removed a breastfeeding mother and her baby from the court and explained his action as 'self-explanatory.' On Thursday, a woman in Melbourne's county court was breastfeeding her baby during a trial.

A Victorian judge removed a breastfeeding mother and her baby from the court and explained his action as 'self-explanatory.' On Thursday, a woman in Melbourne's county court was breastfeeding her baby during a trial. The judge asked her directly to leave the courtroom. He stated the court does not allow breastfeeding because it becomes a 'distraction.' The county court has refused to comment on the incident. ALSO READ | Showing middle finger a constitutional right in Canada, judge declares in a 26-page decision On Friday, the judge addressed the jury and said his comments should be 'self-explanatory.' "Madam, you will not be permitted to breastfeed the baby in court. I'm sorry. I will have to ask you to leave. It will be a distraction for the jury at the very least," he said to the jury, stating what he told the mother. Jaclyn Symes, State's Attorney General, might discuss the matter with the court. "These concerning reports are a matter for the county court," a spokesperson for Symes said. "However, no woman deserves to be shamed and humiliated for public breastfeeding," they added. Ingrid Stitt, Minister for Early Childhood, also commented on the incident on Friday. She told reporters, "In 2023, it's extraordinary that this has happened. It's really disappointing." She added, "The message for Victorian women is we support you and your right to be able to care for your children." Stitt referred to breastfeeding as a 'celebration.' WATCH | Corinne Diacre: France sack head coach four months before Women's World Cup "We've tried so hard to get past so many barriers for women who want to breastfeed and to have this happen in a court of law is just not acceptable at all," said Dr Nisha Knot, a Melbourne obstetrician. She called the incident 'appalling.' Pregnant and breastfeeding women are 'protected' in areas of public life, including work, schools, universities, shops or rental properties, under Victoria's Equal Opportunity Act. However, it is ambiguous if these protections apply in court. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Victorian judge asks breastfeeding mother to leave Melbourne court, calls action 'self-explanatory'

A spate&nbsp;of attacks on Hindu temples in the US state of Texas and Australia’s Melbourne has triggered concerns among the Indian community living abroad, even as authorities probe for any possible hate crime.&nbsp;The first incident took place at Shri Omkarnath Temple in the Brazos Valley, Texas, on January 11, KBTX-TV reported on Friday.

According to reports, the temple was raided by burglars who stole some of the valuables from the premises, leaving the Indian community in a state of shock.

According to a video captured by security cameras inside the temple, a person was seen going past the shrine and heading straight to the donation box. The suspect then used the temple's cart to wheel it out the door.

“There was a sense of invasion, that sense of loss of privacy when something like this happened to us,” Srinivasa Sunkari, a Board member for the Brazos Valley Shri Omkarnath Temple said, reports PTI news agency.

“This is the only Hindu temple in the Brazos Valley, a place for local Hindus to worship, and find peace and community.”

‘“There was a break-in. They broke in through the side window and what was immediately apparent was missing is our donation box and a safe in which we keep our valuables,” Sunkari said.

He said that the priest and his family who live in an apartment right behind the temple are safe.

The second incident was reported from Australia’s Carrum Downs city in Melbourne where the Shri Shiva Vishnu Temple was vandalised with anti-Hindu graffiti.

The devotees who came to the temple for prayer first noticed the ghastly act during the three-day 'Thai Pongal' festival being celebrated by Australia's Tamil Hindu community, The Australia Today news reported.

It came just a week after the BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir in the country's Mill Park was defaced with anti-India and anti-Hindu graffiti.

The Indian Ministry of External Affairs, during its press briefing on Thursday, said that the Indian authorities have raised this issue with their counterparts in Australia.

"Recently a couple of temples have been vandalised in Australia. We condemned these incidents. Both are near Melbourne. We strongly condemn&nbsp;these actions," foreign ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said.

"These actions have also been publicly condemned by Australian leaders, community leaders and religious associations there," he added.

The Australian High Commissioner to India condemned the incident on Friday and asserted that the Melbourne authorities are probing the incident.

"Like India, Australia is a proud, multicultural country. We have been shocked at the vandalism of two Hindu temples in Melbourne, and Australian authorities are investigating" Barry O'Farrell tweeted, tagging India's foreign minister S Jaishankar and the ministry.

"Our strong support for freedom of expression does not include hate speech or violence," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A spate of attacks on Hindu temples in the US state of Texas and Australia’s Melbourne has triggered concerns among the Indian community living abroad, even as authorities probe for any possible hate crime.

A spate of attacks on Hindu temples in the US state of Texas and Australia’s Melbourne has triggered concerns among the Indian community living abroad, even as authorities probe for any possible hate crime. The first incident took place at Shri Omkarnath Temple in the Brazos Valley, Texas, on January 11, KBTX-TV reported on Friday. According to reports, the temple was raided by burglars who stole some of the valuables from the premises, leaving the Indian community in a state of shock. According to a video captured by security cameras inside the temple, a person was seen going past the shrine and heading straight to the donation box. The suspect then used the temple's cart to wheel it out the door. “There was a sense of invasion, that sense of loss of privacy when something like this happened to us,” Srinivasa Sunkari, a Board member for the Brazos Valley Shri Omkarnath Temple said, reports PTI news agency. “This is the only Hindu temple in the Brazos Valley, a place for local Hindus to worship, and find peace and community.” ‘“There was a break-in. They broke in through the side window and what was immediately apparent was missing is our donation box and a safe in which we keep our valuables,” Sunkari said. He said that the priest and his family who live in an apartment right behind the temple are safe. The second incident was reported from Australia’s Carrum Downs city in Melbourne where the Shri Shiva Vishnu Temple was vandalised with anti-Hindu graffiti. The devotees who came to the temple for prayer first noticed the ghastly act during the three-day 'Thai Pongal' festival being celebrated by Australia's Tamil Hindu community, The Australia Today news reported. It came just a week after the BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir in the country's Mill Park was defaced with anti-India and anti-Hindu graffiti. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs, during its press briefing on Thursday, said that the Indian authorities have raised this issue with their counterparts in Australia. "Recently a couple of temples have been vandalised in Australia. We condemned these incidents. Both are near Melbourne. We strongly condemn these actions," foreign ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said. "These actions have also been publicly condemned by Australian leaders, community leaders and religious associations there," he added. The Australian High Commissioner to India condemned the incident on Friday and asserted that the Melbourne authorities are probing the incident. "Like India, Australia is a proud, multicultural country. We have been shocked at the vandalism of two Hindu temples in Melbourne, and Australian authorities are investigating" Barry O'Farrell tweeted, tagging India's foreign minister S Jaishankar and the ministry. "Our strong support for freedom of expression does not include hate speech or violence," he said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Hindu temples attacked in Texas and Melbourne, hate crime suspected

In the adventure novel by the French writer Jules Verne, two men circumnavigate Around the World in Eighty Days. Time changes and now it is 2023 where it took only about all seven continents in just three days one hour five minutes and 4 seconds. That is only 73 hours. Dr Ali Irani and Sujoy Kumar Mitra broke the world record by achieving this feat. Know everything about what came their way, their stories and the previous record.&nbsp;

Sujoy and Dr. Ali, two ardent travellers, think that all records are meant to be broken. According to the Guinness World Records book's website, Sujoy Kumar Mitra and Dr. Ali Irani who are both from India completed the fastest round-the-world trip on December 7, 2022, in Melbourne, Australia, taking 3 days, 1 hour, 5 minutes, and 4 seconds.

After pulling off this incredible accomplishment, the pair predicted that while they might have broken a record today, someone else will likely do so the next day. On his Instagram page, Dr. Ali also posted the Guinness World Records certificate.

<img alt="Record" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="781dadbd-1e8f-4539-a96f-bacca0cef37c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Indian%20Duo%20.png" />

<h2>Round-the-world trip&nbsp;</h2>

The seven continents -- Asia, Africa, Europe, North America, South America, Antarctica, and Oceania, were all visited by Irani and Mitra in the course of about four days. The pair left Antarctica on 4 December and landed in Melbourne, Australia, on December 7, shattering the world records.

 
&nbsp;

In the adventure novel by the French writer Jules Verne, two men circumnavigate Around the World in Eighty Days. Time changes and now it is 2023 where it took only about all seven continents in just three days one hour five minutes and 4 seconds.

In the adventure novel by the French writer Jules Verne, two men circumnavigate Around the World in Eighty Days. Time changes and now it is 2023 where it took only about all seven continents in just three days one hour five minutes and 4 seconds. That is only 73 hours. Dr Ali Irani and Sujoy Kumar Mitra broke the world record by achieving this feat. Know everything about what came their way, their stories and the previous record. Sujoy and Dr. Ali, two ardent travellers, think that all records are meant to be broken. According to the Guinness World Records book's website, Sujoy Kumar Mitra and Dr. Ali Irani who are both from India completed the fastest round-the-world trip on December 7, 2022, in Melbourne, Australia, taking 3 days, 1 hour, 5 minutes, and 4 seconds. After pulling off this incredible accomplishment, the pair predicted that while they might have broken a record today, someone else will likely do so the next day. On his Instagram page, Dr. Ali also posted the Guinness World Records certificate. Round-the-world trip The seven continents -- Asia, Africa, Europe, North America, South America, Antarctica, and Oceania, were all visited by Irani and Mitra in the course of about four days. The pair left Antarctica on 4 December and landed in Melbourne, Australia, on December 7, shattering the world records.

Round the world in the shortest time, two Indians achieve astounding world record feat

The Melbourne Cricket Club is very keen to host a Test series between arch-rivals India and Pakistan at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Should that happen, it would be historic, as the world’s best-known rivals have not played a test series in the last 15 years.&nbsp;

Reports here are that MCC is pressing Cricket Australia (CA) to keep lobbying the International Cricket Council for India and Pakistan to play a test series here. It is for CA to host the matches. The Australian government is also backing the effort.&nbsp;

If Melbourne has reasons to yearn for hosting an India-Pakistan Test series, the same reasons and more may be cited by the two South Asian cricket powers for matches to be played only in their countries.&nbsp;

Cricket does not get any bigger than an India-Pakistan match. The political tensions that have precluded a Test series on home turf after 2007 would only charge a Test match with more excitement. An India-Pakistan cricket match is a turbo-charged gladiatorial event that is unrivalled as spectacle, sport, business, money-spinner especially for all those involved including media and a crowd-puller of staggering proportions. All these make for a potent war-like mix that gives the countries, the players, the crowds, the fans, the tycoons, sports icons and even the political leaders a high that makes it an unmatched blockbuster.&nbsp;

And, Australia got a taste of this in October last when the two teams played the T20 World Cup match at the one-lakh-capacity MCG, watched by a record 90,000-plus fans. No one could get enough of the event, the atmosphere, the noise and the thrill that came with every ball.&nbsp;

All the above are exactly the reasons why India and Pakistan would like to see their Test matches played in their own countries. Pakistan has made it clear that while it would be happy to play India anywhere, its board is firm that the contests should be either in India or Pakistan. The argument is why should the fans, stakeholders and cricket fraternity be deprived of a great contest, and all that flows from it, at home.&nbsp;

Unlike Pakistan, India is keeping its cards close to its chest. In fact, there is no compulsion for India at this stage to take a position on if, when and where cricket’s two fiercest rivals should stage their Test series. There are scheduling problems because there is no room for the clear three weeks required for a three-Test series until 2027. A three-week window in June-July next year falls out of the cricket season in Australia. India and Pakistan have two weeks clear in Dec-Jan 2025-26, in early Dec 2026 and Jan 2027 in the 2023-27 calendar.&nbsp;

Of course, if India and Pakistan want it and their boards agree to hold the test series on neutral ground, then these tentative schedules can easily be recast to hold the matches in Melbourne. &nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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The Melbourne Cricket Club is very keen to host a Test series between arch-rivals India and Pakistan at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Should that happen, it would be historic, as the world’s best-known rivals have not played a test series in the last 15 years.

The Melbourne Cricket Club is very keen to host a Test series between arch-rivals India and Pakistan at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Should that happen, it would be historic, as the world’s best-known rivals have not played a test series in the last 15 years. Reports here are that MCC is pressing Cricket Australia (CA) to keep lobbying the International Cricket Council for India and Pakistan to play a test series here. It is for CA to host the matches. The Australian government is also backing the effort. If Melbourne has reasons to yearn for hosting an India-Pakistan Test series, the same reasons and more may be cited by the two South Asian cricket powers for matches to be played only in their countries. Cricket does not get any bigger than an India-Pakistan match. The political tensions that have precluded a Test series on home turf after 2007 would only charge a Test match with more excitement. An India-Pakistan cricket match is a turbo-charged gladiatorial event that is unrivalled as spectacle, sport, business, money-spinner especially for all those involved including media and a crowd-puller of staggering proportions. All these make for a potent war-like mix that gives the countries, the players, the crowds, the fans, the tycoons, sports icons and even the political leaders a high that makes it an unmatched blockbuster. And, Australia got a taste of this in October last when the two teams played the T20 World Cup match at the one-lakh-capacity MCG, watched by a record 90,000-plus fans. No one could get enough of the event, the atmosphere, the noise and the thrill that came with every ball. All the above are exactly the reasons why India and Pakistan would like to see their Test matches played in their own countries. Pakistan has made it clear that while it would be happy to play India anywhere, its board is firm that the contests should be either in India or Pakistan. The argument is why should the fans, stakeholders and cricket fraternity be deprived of a great contest, and all that flows from it, at home. Unlike Pakistan, India is keeping its cards close to its chest. In fact, there is no compulsion for India at this stage to take a position on if, when and where cricket’s two fiercest rivals should stage their Test series. There are scheduling problems because there is no room for the clear three weeks required for a three-Test series until 2027. A three-week window in June-July next year falls out of the cricket season in Australia. India and Pakistan have two weeks clear in Dec-Jan 2025-26, in early Dec 2026 and Jan 2027 in the 2023-27 calendar. Of course, if India and Pakistan want it and their boards agree to hold the test series on neutral ground, then these tentative schedules can easily be recast to hold the matches in Melbourne. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

WION Spotlight | Melbourne raring to host India-Pakistan test series 

While there remains tension between India and Pakistan, due to the political relation, with both sides reluctant to travel to their respective nations for next year's Asia Cup and ODI World Cup, the Melbourne Cricket Club (MCC) is keen on hosting a Test match between the two heavyweights at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Melbourne. This comes after the success of hosting the two Asian giants in the 2022 T20 World Cup on October 23.

While speaking on SEN radio during Day Four of the second and penultimate Test between Australia and South Africa, on Thursday (December 29), the MCC chief executive Stuart Fox revealed that the club, along with the Victoria government, had made an inquiry to Cricket Australia (CA) about hosting a neutral Test between India and Pakistan. A CA spokesperson has, in turn, confirmed ESPNCricinfo that the final decision to host a Test or a full series solely rests on the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

"Absolutely. Three [Tests] in a row would be lovely at the MCG. You'd fill it every time. We have asked," Fox said. "We've taken that up with Cricket Australia. I know the [Victoria] government has as well. Again, it's enormously complicated from what I can understand, amongst a really busy schedule. So I think that's probably the greater challenge," he opined.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-thrash-south-africa-by-an-innings-and-182-runs-to-win-2nd-test-take-unassailable-2-0-lead-547547">Australia thrash South Africa by an innings and 182 runs to win 2nd Test, take unassailable 2-0 lead</a>

"Wouldn't it be great that it wasn't just Australia-centric and Victoria-centric, that we're catering for all the countries and filling the stadium all the time. So we have asked. "Hopefully, Cricket Australia keep taking it up with the ICC and keep pushing for it. When you do see some of the stadiums around the world unoccupied, I think it would be much better to have a full house and that atmosphere and celebrating the game with full houses," Fox further added.

India and Pakistan last played a Test series in 2007 when Anil Kumble-led India won 1-0. The two nations nowadays only meet in multi-nation or ICC events and their last face-off came during the 2022 T20 WC, in Australia, where Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. beat Babar Azam-led Men in Green by four wickets in a last-ball thriller at a jam-packed MCG, Melbourne.

In the ongoing second cycle of the ICC World Test Championship, India and Australia have a strong chance of meeting in the final in June 2023. Pakistan, after their home series defeat versus England, have been out of contention. Currently, there is nothing scheduled between India-Pakistan&nbsp;for any bilateral cricket on the Future Tours Program (FTP) between 2023-2027, and, hence, if MCG manages to host even a Test, it will be a sellout in no time.&nbsp;

While there remains tension between India and Pakistan, due to the political relation, with both sides reluctant to travel to their respective nations for next year's Asia Cup and ODI World Cup, the Melbourne Cricket Club (MCC) is keen on hosting a Test match between the two heavyweights at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Melbourne.

While there remains tension between India and Pakistan, due to the political relation, with both sides reluctant to travel to their respective nations for next year's Asia Cup and ODI World Cup, the Melbourne Cricket Club (MCC) is keen on hosting a Test match between the two heavyweights at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Melbourne. This comes after the success of hosting the two Asian giants in the 2022 T20 World Cup on October 23. While speaking on SEN radio during Day Four of the second and penultimate Test between Australia and South Africa, on Thursday (December 29), the MCC chief executive Stuart Fox revealed that the club, along with the Victoria government, had made an inquiry to Cricket Australia (CA) about hosting a neutral Test between India and Pakistan. A CA spokesperson has, in turn, confirmed ESPNCricinfo that the final decision to host a Test or a full series solely rests on the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). "Absolutely. Three [Tests] in a row would be lovely at the MCG. You'd fill it every time. We have asked," Fox said. "We've taken that up with Cricket Australia. I know the [Victoria] government has as well. Again, it's enormously complicated from what I can understand, amongst a really busy schedule. So I think that's probably the greater challenge," he opined. Also read: Australia thrash South Africa by an innings and 182 runs to win 2nd Test, take unassailable 2-0 lead "Wouldn't it be great that it wasn't just Australia-centric and Victoria-centric, that we're catering for all the countries and filling the stadium all the time. So we have asked. "Hopefully, Cricket Australia keep taking it up with the ICC and keep pushing for it. When you do see some of the stadiums around the world unoccupied, I think it would be much better to have a full house and that atmosphere and celebrating the game with full houses," Fox further added. India and Pakistan last played a Test series in 2007 when Anil Kumble-led India won 1-0. The two nations nowadays only meet in multi-nation or ICC events and their last face-off came during the 2022 T20 WC, in Australia, where Rohit Sharma & Co. beat Babar Azam-led Men in Green by four wickets in a last-ball thriller at a jam-packed MCG, Melbourne. In the ongoing second cycle of the ICC World Test Championship, India and Australia have a strong chance of meeting in the final in June 2023. Pakistan, after their home series defeat versus England, have been out of contention. Currently, there is nothing scheduled between India-Pakistan for any bilateral cricket on the Future Tours Program (FTP) between 2023-2027, and, hence, if MCG manages to host even a Test, it will be a sellout in no time.

After T20 World Cup success, MCC keen on hosting India-Pakistan Test at the MCG

Novak Djokovic will never forget how it felt to be deported from Australia earlier this year but the Serb said his willingness to return for next month's Grand Slam at Melbourne Park shows the depth of feeling he has for the country. Djokovic was deported on the eve of the 2022 Australian Open in January for not being vaccinated against COVID-19 and received a three-year travel ban from the country.

However, the former world number one's visa ban was waived in November, opening up a path for Djokovic to target a 10th Australian Open crown and giving him a chance to tie Rafa Nadal's mark of 22 Grand Slam titles. "You can't forget those events, it's one of those things that stick with you," said Djokovic in his first news conference since returning to Australia. "It stays with you for the rest of your life. It's something I've never experienced before and hopefully never again, but it is a valuable life experience for me. But I have to move on and coming back to Australia speaks about how I feel about this country and how I feel about playing here."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/heres-all-you-need-to-know-about-the-united-cup-2023-an-inaugural-edition-of-atp-wta-joint-event-547613">Here's all you need to know about the new ATP-WTA joint event - United Cup 2023</a>

Djokovic will warm up for the Australian Open by playing in the Adelaide International starting on Jan. 1 and is hoping for a warm reception from local fans. "It's a great place and the people in Adelaide, and generally in Australia, love&nbsp;tennis, love sports and it's a sporting nation so hopefully we're going to have a lot of people watching and we can have a good time," Djokovic said. "I'm hoping everything is going to be positive. Obviously, it's not something that I can predict. I'll do my best to play some good&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;and bring good emotions and good feelings to the crowd."

Djokovic said his overall experience in Australia had not been soured by what happened in January. "What happened 12 months ago was not easy to digest for some time but at the same time I had to move on. Those circumstances will not replace what I have lived in Melbourne and in Australia throughout my entire career," Djokovic said. "So I come with positive emotions and I really look forward to playing there. It's been my favourite Grand Slam, the results prove that."

&nbsp;

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Novak Djokovic will never forget how it felt to be deported from Australia earlier this year but the Serb said his willingness to return for next month's Grand Slam at Melbourne Park shows the depth of feeling he has for the country.

Novak Djokovic will never forget how it felt to be deported from Australia earlier this year but the Serb said his willingness to return for next month's Grand Slam at Melbourne Park shows the depth of feeling he has for the country. Djokovic was deported on the eve of the 2022 Australian Open in January for not being vaccinated against COVID-19 and received a three-year travel ban from the country. However, the former world number one's visa ban was waived in November, opening up a path for Djokovic to target a 10th Australian Open crown and giving him a chance to tie Rafa Nadal's mark of 22 Grand Slam titles. "You can't forget those events, it's one of those things that stick with you," said Djokovic in his first news conference since returning to Australia. "It stays with you for the rest of your life. It's something I've never experienced before and hopefully never again, but it is a valuable life experience for me. But I have to move on and coming back to Australia speaks about how I feel about this country and how I feel about playing here." Also read: Here's all you need to know about the new ATP-WTA joint event - United Cup 2023 Djokovic will warm up for the Australian Open by playing in the Adelaide International starting on Jan. 1 and is hoping for a warm reception from local fans. "It's a great place and the people in Adelaide, and generally in Australia, love tennis, love sports and it's a sporting nation so hopefully we're going to have a lot of people watching and we can have a good time," Djokovic said. "I'm hoping everything is going to be positive. Obviously, it's not something that I can predict. I'll do my best to play some good tennis and bring good emotions and good feelings to the crowd." Djokovic said his overall experience in Australia had not been soured by what happened in January. "What happened 12 months ago was not easy to digest for some time but at the same time I had to move on. Those circumstances will not replace what I have lived in Melbourne and in Australia throughout my entire career," Djokovic said. "So I come with positive emotions and I really look forward to playing there. It's been my favourite Grand Slam, the results prove that." WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Former world number one Novak Djokovic can't forget being deported from Australia but is ready to move on

On Thursday (December 29), Pat Cummins-led Australia thrashed South Africa by an innings and 182 runs to win the second and penultimate Test at the iconic MCG, Melbourne. Resuming the fourth day's play, SA were 15 for 1 and trailing by 371 more runs. Despite some fight from Temba Bavuma (65) and starts from&nbsp;Theunis de Bruyn and Kyle Verreynne, the Proteas only managed 204 all-out to concede a big win for the hosts.

Everything clicked for the Aussies from the word go. Opting to bowl first, Australia rode on Cameron Green's five-fer to dismiss the visitors for 189 before piling up a mammoth 575 for 8 decl. with David Warner (200) and Alex Carey (111) being the top performers. The South Africans somehow managed to cross the 200-run mark but have lost their fourth Test in a row to fall behind in the race to enter the ICC World Test Championship final. Here's the updated WTC points table after Australia thrash SA:

<img alt="Updated WTC points table after Aus beat SA" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="787c0892-cdf5-43f5-ac39-ad2c8ce743a5" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Aus%20beat%20SA%20WTC%20PT.png" />

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/after-t20-world-cup-success-mcc-keen-on-hosting-india-pakistan-test-at-the-mcg-547561">After T20 World Cup success, MCC keen on hosting India-Pakistan Test at the MCG</a>

At the post-match presentation, skipper Cummins said, "It (the win) is right up there. We have had some great contests with South Africa, hadn't won against them at home in 20 years I think, so pretty special. I thought how Warner and Smith batted in the heat was pretty gutsy. Starc and Green as well, put their injuries behind and turned up. Davey was superb, you could see his energy from ball one and to do it in his 100th Test is awesome. He (Carey) has really cemented his place in the Test side and to get a hundred in a Boxing Day Test is special. He's (Lyon) good to go, just winded himself. Starc and Green will definitely miss the Sydney Test. Boxing Day is a pretty huge event and this year was even more special as we celebrated Warnie."

Meanwhile, Elgar pointed out, "It is not easy at the moment. That was bit of a hammering. We have got to do lot of reflection going ahead once again. There are a few positives coming out of this Test but not a lot. The inexperience with the bat in hand, we lost a lot of batters in the last few years and that has played a role. But that also gave an opportunity for the newcomers to come out, perform and stake a permanent claim in this batting group. But it is definitely hurting us at the moment."

Australia are nearing qualification for the WTC final with this win. They will aim for a series whitewash, at the SCG, Sydney, before their four Tests in India next year.

On Thursday (December 29), Pat Cummins-led Australia thrashed South Africa by an innings and 182 runs to win the second and penultimate Test at the iconic MCG, Melbourne.

On Thursday (December 29), Pat Cummins-led Australia thrashed South Africa by an innings and 182 runs to win the second and penultimate Test at the iconic MCG, Melbourne. Resuming the fourth day's play, SA were 15 for 1 and trailing by 371 more runs. Despite some fight from Temba Bavuma (65) and starts from Theunis de Bruyn and Kyle Verreynne, the Proteas only managed 204 all-out to concede a big win for the hosts. Everything clicked for the Aussies from the word go. Opting to bowl first, Australia rode on Cameron Green's five-fer to dismiss the visitors for 189 before piling up a mammoth 575 for 8 decl. with David Warner (200) and Alex Carey (111) being the top performers. The South Africans somehow managed to cross the 200-run mark but have lost their fourth Test in a row to fall behind in the race to enter the ICC World Test Championship final. Here's the updated WTC points table after Australia thrash SA: Also read: After T20 World Cup success, MCC keen on hosting India-Pakistan Test at the MCG At the post-match presentation, skipper Cummins said, "It (the win) is right up there. We have had some great contests with South Africa, hadn't won against them at home in 20 years I think, so pretty special. I thought how Warner and Smith batted in the heat was pretty gutsy. Starc and Green as well, put their injuries behind and turned up. Davey was superb, you could see his energy from ball one and to do it in his 100th Test is awesome. He (Carey) has really cemented his place in the Test side and to get a hundred in a Boxing Day Test is special. He's (Lyon) good to go, just winded himself. Starc and Green will definitely miss the Sydney Test. Boxing Day is a pretty huge event and this year was even more special as we celebrated Warnie." Meanwhile, Elgar pointed out, "It is not easy at the moment. That was bit of a hammering. We have got to do lot of reflection going ahead once again. There are a few positives coming out of this Test but not a lot. The inexperience with the bat in hand, we lost a lot of batters in the last few years and that has played a role. But that also gave an opportunity for the newcomers to come out, perform and stake a permanent claim in this batting group. But it is definitely hurting us at the moment." Australia are nearing qualification for the WTC final with this win. They will aim for a series whitewash, at the SCG, Sydney, before their four Tests in India next year.

Updated ICC World Test Championship points table after Australia beat South Africa at the MCG

On Thursday (December 29), Australia ended South Africa's miseries in the second and penultimate Test, at the MCG, Melbourne, to win by an innings and 182 runs. From the word go, Australia have dominated proceedings and showed no signs of slowing down on the fourth day, when play&nbsp;resumed with SA being 15 for 1 after conceding a whopping 386-run lead.

Theunis de Bruyn, Temba Bavuma (65), and Kyle Verreynne showed some resistance but never threatened the Pat Cummins-led Aussie bowlers as Scott Boland (2 for 49) and Nathan Lyon&nbsp;(3 for 58) accounted for regular breakthroughs whereas the likes of Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc and Cummins chipped in with a wicket each. The Proteas batters once again fell flat as the team has now lost four successive Tests to dent their chances of reaching the WTC final. Had it not been for their last-wicket partnership, which added 27 runs, it would've been their&nbsp;eighth consecutive innings where South Africa wouldn't have touched the 200-run mark.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-hardik-will-be-captain-and-vice-captain-leading-into-odi-wc-says-team-india-veteran-dinesh-karthik-547384">Rohit, Hardik will be captain and vice-captain leading into ODI WC, says Team India veteran Dinesh Karthik</a>

Australia got everything right from the coin toss. Opting to bowl first, they rode on IPL 2023 auction's star Cameron Green&nbsp;(5 for 27) to rattle SA for 189. David Warner, playing his 100th Test, scored a majestic 200 (255) whereas Alex Carey's 111 and fifties from Steve Smith (85), Travis Head, and Green took Australia to a mammoth 575-8 decl. Dean Elgar-led SA continued to slip further from thereon and showed no fight whatsoever with the bat.

For the Aussies, they have beaten South Africa at home after 17 years and strengthened their case to reach the final of the ongoing second cycle of the WTC. They will, however, aim to go for the kill and whitewash the series at the SCG, Sydney with the third and final Test commencing on January 04.&nbsp;&nbsp;

On Thursday (December 29), Australia ended South Africa's miseries in the second and penultimate Test, at the MCG, Melbourne, to win by an innings and 182 runs. From the word go, Australia have dominated proceedings and showed no signs of slowing down on the fourth day, when play resumed with SA being 15 for 1 after conceding a whopping 386-run lead.

On Thursday (December 29), Australia ended South Africa's miseries in the second and penultimate Test, at the MCG, Melbourne, to win by an innings and 182 runs. From the word go, Australia have dominated proceedings and showed no signs of slowing down on the fourth day, when play resumed with SA being 15 for 1 after conceding a whopping 386-run lead. Theunis de Bruyn, Temba Bavuma (65), and Kyle Verreynne showed some resistance but never threatened the Pat Cummins-led Aussie bowlers as Scott Boland (2 for 49) and Nathan Lyon (3 for 58) accounted for regular breakthroughs whereas the likes of Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc and Cummins chipped in with a wicket each. The Proteas batters once again fell flat as the team has now lost four successive Tests to dent their chances of reaching the WTC final. Had it not been for their last-wicket partnership, which added 27 runs, it would've been their eighth consecutive innings where South Africa wouldn't have touched the 200-run mark. Also read: Rohit, Hardik will be captain and vice-captain leading into ODI WC, says Team India veteran Dinesh Karthik Australia got everything right from the coin toss. Opting to bowl first, they rode on IPL 2023 auction's star Cameron Green (5 for 27) to rattle SA for 189. David Warner, playing his 100th Test, scored a majestic 200 (255) whereas Alex Carey's 111 and fifties from Steve Smith (85), Travis Head, and Green took Australia to a mammoth 575-8 decl. Dean Elgar-led SA continued to slip further from thereon and showed no fight whatsoever with the bat. For the Aussies, they have beaten South Africa at home after 17 years and strengthened their case to reach the final of the ongoing second cycle of the WTC. They will, however, aim to go for the kill and whitewash the series at the SCG, Sydney with the third and final Test commencing on January 04.

Australia thrash South Africa by an innings and 182 runs to win 2nd Test, take unassailable 2-0 lead

Australian football team needed a win versus the No. 10 ranked Denmark to progress ahead into the Round of 16 in the FIFA World Cup in Qatar. Prior to the game, Australia were at the second spot in their group and had fate in their own hands knowing that a win will be enough for them to progress ahead in the mega event. A defeat would've ended their run and a draw would've put them in a difficult spot and pushed to a likely early exit.&nbsp;

Nonetheless, the Aussies rode on&nbsp;Mathew Leckie as he scored the only goal of the match to help his side to a 1-0 win over Denmark and take them into the Round of 16 in a World Cup for only the second time. In 2006 edition, Australia had reached the last 16 for the first time. After the game got over, Aussie fans went berserk and celebrated wildly. The game ended at 4 am local time in Australia, however, the fans gathered in huge numbers and celebrated the side's victory in the streets in Melbourne. Here's a viral video of Aussie fans' celebrations after Australia made it to the last 16:

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Melbourne, at 3am 🇦🇺 time. A big moment for football in the country. <a href="https://t.co/v6tO14iUch">pic.twitter.com/v6tO14iUch</a>
— Adam Millington (@AdamGMillington) <a href="https://twitter.com/AdamGMillington/status/1597994348322254856?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 30, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-messi-fails-to-score-from-penalty-kick-due-to-szczesnys-splendid-save-in-argentina-portugal-tie-538965">WATCH: Messi fails to score from penalty kick due to Szczesny's splendid save in Argentina-Portugal tie</a>

Australia now have a stern test ahead. They will face Lionel Messi-starrer Argentina in the Round of 16 clash on December 04. With the group stages done and dusted for the men from Down Under, they will know they have to be at their very best to go all the distance in the showpiece event in Qatar.

Australian football team needed a win versus the No. 10 ranked Denmark to progress ahead into the Round of 16 in the FIFA World Cup in Qatar. Prior to the game, Australia were at the second spot in their group and had fate in their own hands knowing that a win will be enough for them to progress ahead in the mega event.

Australian football team needed a win versus the No. 10 ranked Denmark to progress ahead into the Round of 16 in the FIFA World Cup in Qatar. Prior to the game, Australia were at the second spot in their group and had fate in their own hands knowing that a win will be enough for them to progress ahead in the mega event. A defeat would've ended their run and a draw would've put them in a difficult spot and pushed to a likely early exit. Nonetheless, the Aussies rode on Mathew Leckie as he scored the only goal of the match to help his side to a 1-0 win over Denmark and take them into the Round of 16 in a World Cup for only the second time. In 2006 edition, Australia had reached the last 16 for the first time. After the game got over, Aussie fans went berserk and celebrated wildly. The game ended at 4 am local time in Australia, however, the fans gathered in huge numbers and celebrated the side's victory in the streets in Melbourne. Here's a viral video of Aussie fans' celebrations after Australia made it to the last 16: Melbourne, at 3am 🇦🇺 time. A big moment for football in the country. pic.twitter.com/v6tO14iUch — Adam Millington (@AdamGMillington) November 30, 2022 × Also read: WATCH: Messi fails to score from penalty kick due to Szczesny's splendid save in Argentina-Portugal tie Australia now have a stern test ahead. They will face Lionel Messi-starrer Argentina in the Round of 16 clash on December 04. With the group stages done and dusted for the men from Down Under, they will know they have to be at their very best to go all the distance in the showpiece event in Qatar.

FIFA WC: Australian fans go berserk as Socceroos seal a spot in Round of 16 with Denmark win - Watch

Is there a common thread running through Kolkata and Melbourne? Master Architect Dikshu Kukreja meets Sally Capp, Lord Mayor of Melbourne to explore parallels between the two cities. Watch Tale of Two Cities in collaboration with C P Kukreja Architects.

Tale of Two Cities: Melbourne and Kolkata

Is there a common thread running through Kolkata and Melbourne? Master Architect Dikshu Kukreja meets Sally Capp, Lord Mayor of Melbourne to explore parallels between the two cities. Watch #TaleofTwoCities in collaboration with Kukreja Architects

Is there a common thread running through Kolkata and Melbourne? Master Architect Dikshu Kukreja meets Sally Capp, Lord Mayor of Melbourne to explore parallels between the two cities. Watch #TaleofTwoCities in collaboration with Kukreja Architects Saturday: 7:30 PM IST Sunday: 3:30 PM IST

Tale of two cities: Is there a common thread running through Kolkata and Melbourne?

The prospect of men sharing the burden of responsibility for contraception now seems brighter. The trial of the world's first injectable male contraceptive is currently underway at the Epworth Freemasons Hospital in East Melbourne.&nbsp;

Trail underway

A total of 25 men will be administered a hydrogel. This gel will travel into the vas deferens, the tube that carries sperm. It will then block the sperm from leaving the testes, reported ABC News.&nbsp;

An alternate for a vasectomy?&nbsp;

Researchers at the Melbourne hospital believe that the 10-minute procedure will be effective for up to two years. After approximately two years, the hydrogel is expected to dissolve. If the men want to continue they can undergo the procedure again. Thus, the researchers have dubbed this contraceptive a "temporary vasectomy".

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-deepika-padukone-launches-her-new-skincare-line-more-details-inside-532906">Deepika Padukone launches her new skincare line; more details inside</a>

Is the procedure reversible?&nbsp;

Whether or not the effect of the gel is truly non-permanent still needs to be investigated under this three-year study. Liza O'Donnell, the reproductive health scientist at the Hudson Institute of Medical Research, said the trial appeared promising if it proves to be truly reversible.

"Given this is only a two-year vasectomy, if you like, it's much better and more likely to be reversible," she said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-john-wick-4-trailer-keanu-reeves-is-back-for-more-mayhem-as-the-revered-assassin-533090">'John Wick 4' trailer: Keanu Reeves is back for more mayhem as the revered assassin</a>

Striking inequality

Though there is a great amount of bias when it comes to male and female contraceptives. Expressing frustration over this issue, Dr. O'Donnell said, "If the male hormonal contraceptives had&nbsp;been discovered before the female pill, it would have been absolutely supported." "I just find the inequality striking," she added.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/world-business-watch-japan-rushes-to-revive-chip-making-to-invest-up-to-500-mn-533143">World Business Watch: Japan rushes to revive chip making, to invest up to $500 mn</a>

Sharing burden&nbsp;

If the trial proves to be a success, Professor Lawrentschuk said it could be a "game changer." ABC News quoting the professor reported that this will help men in heterosexual relationships to share the responsibility of contraception.

"In this instance, men would be in control of their own contraception and can enter into the fray which is often placed on their partner," he said.

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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The prospect of men sharing the burden of responsibility for contraception now seems brighter. The trial of the world's first injectable male contraceptive is currently underway at the Epworth Freemasons Hospital in East Melbourne.

The prospect of men sharing the burden of responsibility for contraception now seems brighter. The trial of the world's first injectable male contraceptive is currently underway at the Epworth Freemasons Hospital in East Melbourne. Trail underway A total of 25 men will be administered a hydrogel. This gel will travel into the vas deferens, the tube that carries sperm. It will then block the sperm from leaving the testes, reported ABC News. An alternate for a vasectomy? Researchers at the Melbourne hospital believe that the 10-minute procedure will be effective for up to two years. After approximately two years, the hydrogel is expected to dissolve. If the men want to continue they can undergo the procedure again. Thus, the researchers have dubbed this contraceptive a "temporary vasectomy". ALSO READ | Deepika Padukone launches her new skincare line; more details inside Is the procedure reversible? Whether or not the effect of the gel is truly non-permanent still needs to be investigated under this three-year study. Liza O'Donnell, the reproductive health scientist at the Hudson Institute of Medical Research, said the trial appeared promising if it proves to be truly reversible. "Given this is only a two-year vasectomy, if you like, it's much better and more likely to be reversible," she said. ALSO READ | 'John Wick 4' trailer: Keanu Reeves is back for more mayhem as the revered assassin Striking inequality Though there is a great amount of bias when it comes to male and female contraceptives. Expressing frustration over this issue, Dr. O'Donnell said, "If the male hormonal contraceptives had been discovered before the female pill, it would have been absolutely supported." "I just find the inequality striking," she added. WATCH | World Business Watch: Japan rushes to revive chip making, to invest up to $500 mn Sharing burden If the trial proves to be a success, Professor Lawrentschuk said it could be a "game changer." ABC News quoting the professor reported that this will help men in heterosexual relationships to share the responsibility of contraception. "In this instance, men would be in control of their own contraception and can enter into the fray which is often placed on their partner," he said. 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.

Trial of world's first injectable male contraceptive underway at Melbourne hospital

The rain had the final say in the doubleheaders at the Men's T20 World Cup on Friday (October 28). After the Ireland-Afghanistan clash was washed out due to rain, in Group A, the Australia-England face-off also met with the&nbsp;same fate.

The T20 WC has lived up to expectations so far. However, rain has forced many games to be washed out in the main draw of the competition. Earlier in Group A, the New Zealand-Afghanistan match was also abandoned without a ball being bowled. Friday's doubleheaders, at the MCG, Melbourne,&nbsp;didn't even see the coin toss taking place.

Following a no-show on Friday, Group A continues to be wide open. At present, New Zealand occupies the top spot whereas England, Ireland, and Australia follow suit with an equal number of points (three each). Sri Lanka and Afghanistan are at the bottom slots, respectively, with&nbsp;two points apiece. Here's how England, and Australia&nbsp;can&nbsp;enter the semi-finals despite rain forcing their face-off to be washed out in Melbourne:

<img alt="Group A standing after Aus vs Eng clash" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3386f031-d586-4a72-a796-0dce1e1892fc" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Group%20A%20standing.png" />

While NZ is at the top at the moment, SL have a realistic chance of progressing ahead, Ireland can make the top four only if they win the remainder of the games whereas Afghanistan is almost out. For England and Australia, the 2010 winners need to win both their remaining games as their NRR is a saving grace as of now (+0.239 ). For the hosts and defending champions to qualify, they have to win big versus both Ireland and Afghanistan. While that is possible by all means, Australia will qualify straightaway if England, Ireland and Sri Lanka lose one more clash. SL is their biggest threat currently, assuming NZ are strong contenders to top the group, which has one more game to play than the two European nations.

Even if Australia can better their NRR as compared to England and Ireland, they will hope and pray for the Lankans to concede at least one game (out of the three).&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-after-ireland-afghanistan-australia-vs-england-also-washed-out-without-a-ball-being-bowled-529147">T20 WC: After Ireland-Afghanistan, Australia vs England also washed out without a ball being bowled</a>

What they said:

<p ng-bind-html="comm[ts].comm" ng-class="get_comm_class(comm[ts]) " ng-hide="comm[ts].geo != null &amp;&amp; comm[ts].geo.length &gt; 0 &amp;&amp; comm[ts].geo.indexOf($root.$GEO.country) == -1" ng-if="comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:news' &amp;&amp; comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:video' &amp;&amp; comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:comments'">Aaron Finch:&nbsp;The outfield has taken a drenching over the last couple of weeks. That's the wettest I've ever seen in this stadium. The run-ups were a really issue and around the inner circle, it were very wet. It's more about players' safety. We saw one of the Zimbabweans go down the other day. If you are trying to run there, it's going to be a real issue. Everyone was ready to play, there was a great turnout, disappointing not to get on. The amount of rain that Melbourne has had has been amazing. He (Wade) was going to play tonight. He had few symptoms yesterday but he was good to go. You got to try and win firstly. Then you try and push for the NRR. You can never underestimate Ireland and Afghanistan. They've got some world-class players. You can overplay the situation at times and that takes you focus off your job at hand. We'll control what we can.

<p ng-bind-html="comm[ts].comm" ng-class="get_comm_class(comm[ts]) " ng-hide="comm[ts].geo != null &amp;&amp; comm[ts].geo.length &gt; 0 &amp;&amp; comm[ts].geo.indexOf($root.$GEO.country) == -1" ng-if="comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:news' &amp;&amp; comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:video' &amp;&amp; comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:comments'">Jos Buttler:&nbsp;Was supposed to be a massive occasion, full house here against Australia, biggest game of your career, very disappointed not to be able to play tonight. Would have been a great place to do it (100th game). But full focus on our next match and keep our tournament alive. We've been playing some good cricket leading into the tournament. Really disappointing the other night specially when we had majority of things in our favour. We don't become a bad team overnight. We are full of match-winners. Looking forward to the rest of the tournament. The guys are rested up well and we were ready to play tonight as well. Few days now to clear everything out, have a couple of good training days and then look forward to the next game.

The rain had the final say in the doubleheaders at the Men's T20 World Cup on Friday (October 28). After the Ireland-Afghanistan clash was washed out due to rain, in Group A, the Australia-England face-off also met with the same fate.

The rain had the final say in the doubleheaders at the Men's T20 World Cup on Friday (October 28). After the Ireland-Afghanistan clash was washed out due to rain, in Group A, the Australia-England face-off also met with the same fate. The T20 WC has lived up to expectations so far. However, rain has forced many games to be washed out in the main draw of the competition. Earlier in Group A, the New Zealand-Afghanistan match was also abandoned without a ball being bowled. Friday's doubleheaders, at the MCG, Melbourne, didn't even see the coin toss taking place. Following a no-show on Friday, Group A continues to be wide open. At present, New Zealand occupies the top spot whereas England, Ireland, and Australia follow suit with an equal number of points (three each). Sri Lanka and Afghanistan are at the bottom slots, respectively, with two points apiece. Here's how England, and Australia can enter the semi-finals despite rain forcing their face-off to be washed out in Melbourne: While NZ is at the top at the moment, SL have a realistic chance of progressing ahead, Ireland can make the top four only if they win the remainder of the games whereas Afghanistan is almost out. For England and Australia, the 2010 winners need to win both their remaining games as their NRR is a saving grace as of now (+0.239 ). For the hosts and defending champions to qualify, they have to win big versus both Ireland and Afghanistan. While that is possible by all means, Australia will qualify straightaway if England, Ireland and Sri Lanka lose one more clash. SL is their biggest threat currently, assuming NZ are strong contenders to top the group, which has one more game to play than the two European nations. Even if Australia can better their NRR as compared to England and Ireland, they will hope and pray for the Lankans to concede at least one game (out of the three). ALSO READ | T20 WC: After Ireland-Afghanistan, Australia vs England also washed out without a ball being bowled What they said: Aaron Finch: The outfield has taken a drenching over the last couple of weeks. That's the wettest I've ever seen in this stadium. The run-ups were a really issue and around the inner circle, it were very wet. It's more about players' safety. We saw one of the Zimbabweans go down the other day. If you are trying to run there, it's going to be a real issue. Everyone was ready to play, there was a great turnout, disappointing not to get on. The amount of rain that Melbourne has had has been amazing. He (Wade) was going to play tonight. He had few symptoms yesterday but he was good to go. You got to try and win firstly. Then you try and push for the NRR. You can never underestimate Ireland and Afghanistan. They've got some world-class players. You can overplay the situation at times and that takes you focus off your job at hand. We'll control what we can. Jos Buttler: Was supposed to be a massive occasion, full house here against Australia, biggest game of your career, very disappointed not to be able to play tonight. Would have been a great place to do it (100th game). But full focus on our next match and keep our tournament alive. We've been playing some good cricket leading into the tournament. Really disappointing the other night specially when we had majority of things in our favour. We don't become a bad team overnight. We are full of match-winners. Looking forward to the rest of the tournament. The guys are rested up well and we were ready to play tonight as well. Few days now to clear everything out, have a couple of good training days and then look forward to the next game.

T20 WC 2022: EXPLAINED! How AUS & ENG can reach knockouts after rain forces them to share points

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