Despite ongoing speculation about his Test future, Rohit Sharma has hinted at captaining India in the upcoming five-Test series against England, starting June 20. Speaking on the Beyond23 Podcast with Michael Clarke, Rohit stressed the importance of a fully fit pace attack, particularly Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami, to tackle English conditions. The India skipper had a disappointing 2024–25 Test season and has also struggled in IPL 2025. However, sources suggest Rohit expressed his desire to lead the team in England during talks with BCCI after India’s Champions Trophy win. The series marks the start of a new WTC cycle. (PC: PTI)

Israel’s Defense Minister Israel Katz announced that Israeli troops will remain in designated "security zones" within Gaza even after the war ends, aiming to protect nearby Israeli communities. Katz also confirmed the continuation of the aid blockade, pressing Hamas to release hostages. The UN and humanitarian groups, including Médecins Sans Frontières, warned of catastrophic conditions in Gaza, describing the territory as a "mass grave." Over 1,650 Palestinians have died since hostilities resumed in March. Hamas rejected an Israeli ceasefire proposal demanding disarmament. Israel’s strategy is drawing criticism from hostage families and international observers calling for humanitarian relief and a ceasefire. (PC: AFP)

Delhi Capitals edged past Rajasthan Royals in a thrilling IPL 2025 encounter, clinching victory in the season’s first Super Over. Mitchell Starc showcased nerves of steel, defending nine runs in the final over to force the Super Over, where DC sealed the win. Chasing 189, RR ended at 188/4 despite a strong effort. Earlier, DC posted 188/5, powered by Abhishek Porel (49), KL Rahul (38), and explosive cameos from Axar Patel (34 off 14) and Tristan Stubbs (34* off 18). Sandeep Sharma’s expensive final over proved costly for RR. The match, held at Arun Jaitley Stadium, kept fans on the edge. (PC: BCCI)

LGBT+ organisations across the UK have expressed deep concern following a Supreme Court ruling that defines "woman" in UK law as based on biological sex. The Consortium, representing over 700 groups, warned of "widespread, harmful implications" for trans, intersex, and non-binary individuals. The decision arose from a legal battle between the Scottish government and a women’s campaign group. LGBT+ advocates say the ruling could impact healthcare, legal protections, and equality. The Consortium pledged to work with allies to clarify the ruling’s practical consequences and ensure affected communities receive support and information in the coming weeks. (PC: Sky News)

Pope Francis, 88, expressed gratitude to the medical team that treated him for double pneumonia during a five-week hospital stay at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital. Speaking in a soft, raspy voice without oxygen assistance, the pontiff thanked around 70 doctors and staff during a meeting at the Vatican on Wednesday. Though advised to rest for two months, Pope Francis has made several brief public appearances, signaling gradual recovery from his most serious health crisis in 12 years. With the Vatican preparing for its busiest religious season, including Easter, senior cardinals will lead major services as the Pope limits his participation. (PC: AP)

In the wake of violent clashes in Murshidabad, West Bengal, a widow recounted the brutal killing of her husband and son during protests over the Waqf Amendment Act. Masked attackers stormed their home, pelting stones and destroying property. Another victim, Pradipta Pal, said his shop was vandalized and torched by a mob of 150-200 people. Despite repeated calls, police reportedly didn’t respond. The violence erupted on April 11 in Dhulian, killing three and injuring several. Over 150 arrests have been made. BJP's Sukanta Majumdar alleged riot calls were made from mosque loudspeakers, as many victims took shelter in Malda camps.

The Supreme Court on Wednesday expressed serious concerns over the removal of the 'waqf by user' provision from the Waqf (Amendment) Act, stating it could have “huge consequences.” A three-judge bench led by Chief Justice Sanjeev Khanna heard 73 petitions challenging the new law, which excludes properties used for Islamic religious purposes from automatic waqf classification without formal documentation. The court questioned how centuries-old mosques could provide sale deeds and criticized the inclusion of non-Muslims on waqf boards. The Centre has been asked to clarify. No interim orders were passed; hearings will resume Thursday. (PC: India Today)

A U.S. federal judge has warned he may hold the Trump administration in contempt of court for defying an order to halt deportation flights to El Salvador. Judge James Boasberg said the government showed “willful disregard” of his ruling, calling their responses unsatisfactory. The deportations were carried out under the 1798 Alien Enemies Act, which the Supreme Court later upheld—but Boasberg emphasized that this did not excuse the initial violation. The administration has until April 23 to comply or explain its actions. Failure to do so may result in prosecutions of individuals who ignored the court’s order. (PC: BBC)

Delhi Capitals posted 188/5 against Rajasthan Royals in their IPL 2025 clash at Arun Jaitley Stadium. Abhishek Porel anchored the innings with a 37-ball 49, while KL Rahul contributed a cautious 38. Late fireworks from Axar Patel (34 off 14) and Tristan Stubbs (34* off 18) boosted DC’s total. RR pacer Sandeep Sharma conceded 23 runs in the final over, scripting an unwanted record. Despite an aggressive start, DC faltered in the middle after Jake Fraser-McGurk’s dismissal and Karun Nair’s run-out for a duck. A powerplay total of just 46 hinted at early struggles, but the hosts recovered well. (PC: BCCI)

Chinmay Deore, an Indian student at Wayne State University, has joined three others in suing the Trump administration after their student visas were abruptly revoked. Filed by the ACLU in Michigan, the lawsuit argues their SEVIS status was terminated without notice or legal grounds. The case highlights growing concerns as hundreds of international students, including many Indians, face deportation amid an alleged crackdown on campus activism. The students maintain they committed no crimes and weren't involved in protests. ACLU’s Loren Khogali accused the administration of using fear tactics: “They’re coming for international students to sow chaos and fear.” (PC: India Today)