Power, politics and India’s place in the new world order

India's Sri Lanka warm-up match trimmed to three days before Test series

India's warm-up match against a Sri Lanka XI ahead of the upcoming Test series has been reduced from four days to three. The practice game is now scheduled to run from August 7 to August 9 at the NCC Ground in Colombo. The two-match Test series between India and Sri Lanka is set to begin on August 15. Both Tests are part of the ongoing World Test Championship cycle.

Space junk crisis worsens as over a tonne of debris falls to Earth every week

Joe Root eager to lead England Tests again after connecting with coach Fleming

Joe Root has expressed strong enthusiasm about captaining England's Test side once more, citing new head coach Stephen Fleming as a major factor in his renewed excitement. Root revealed that Fleming's vision for the team instantly resonated with him, describing their alignment on cricketing philosophy. He also acknowledged the significant contributions made by outgoing coach Brendon McCullum and captain Ben Stokes to England's recent Test success. England's upcoming home series against Pakistan in August will be the team's next major assignment under the new coaching setup.

Japan Earthquake Death Toll Hits 36 as Evacuee Dies of Heat Stroke in Car

An elderly woman died from heat stroke while sheltering in her parked car following a major earthquake in Japan, pushing the overall death toll to 36. Thousands of displaced residents remain in makeshift arrangements, with many choosing to sleep in vehicles or outdoors rather than in official shelters. Rising temperatures have prompted authorities to warn of increasing heat-related health risks for survivors still living outside their homes. The Japanese government is expediting the delivery of essential supplies to evacuation centers in an effort to improve conditions for those affected.