Bangladesh retained their U19 Men’s Asia Cup title by defeating India by 59 runs in the final on December 8, 2024, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Bangladesh posted 198/9, with Rizan Hossain contributing 47 runs. India’s chase faltered as they were dismissed for 139 in 35.2 overs. Key performances came from Iqbal Hossain Emon, who took 3 wickets, and captain Azizul Hakim, who claimed 3 wickets for just 8 runs. This victory marks Bangladesh’s second consecutive title after winning their first in 2023, handing India a rare defeat in the competition.

On Sunday, Israel launched airstrikes targeting air defense bases and ammunition depots near Syria’s capital, Damascus. This came after the Israeli military deployed forces to a demilitarized buffer zone in southwest Syria, near the Golan Heights, following the rebel capture of Damascus. Syrian opposition forces declared a curfew in the capital from 4 pm to 5 am. Meanwhile, rebel factions announced the fall of President Bashar al-Assad, confirming his resignation and departure from Syria after a peaceful power transfer. Israel's military stated that it would continue its operations to defend the buffer zone.

France President Emmanuel Macron praised the restoration of Notre Dame Cathedral, calling it a testament to what great nations can achieve. During the reopening ceremony, Paris firefighters, who saved the landmark during the 2019 blaze, were given a standing ovation for their heroic efforts. Macron emphasized the importance of preserving the cathedral, describing the reconstruction as a lesson in humility and determination. The five-year restoration, costing 700 million euros, was completed on time, despite setbacks such as lead contamination, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the tragic death of the project’s overseeing general.

India's captain Rohit Sharma faced criticism following his disappointing performance in the second Test against Australia, where he scored 6 and 3 batting at No. 6. Former Australian cricketer Kerry O'Keeffe questioned Rohit's position in the playing XI after the double failure in Adelaide. "It’s a tough gig to come here at 37 years of age. Rohit has averaged 13 in his last five Test matches," O'Keeffe said. He added, "You could count on one hand the number of 37-year-old plusses who have had a significant effect on the series." O'Keeffe suggested considering a "Plan B" for Rohit, noting the relentless Australian pace attack.

Syrian rebels took over Damascus on Sunday, ending the Assad regime's decades-long rule. Russia confirmed President Bashar al-Assad fled Syria, issuing orders for a peaceful power transfer before departing. Rebel leader Golani declared on state television, "The future is ours," vowing to continue their revolution. Celebrations erupted as fighters and residents took to the streets, proclaiming Damascus "liberated." Russia’s military bases in Syria are on high alert, though no immediate threats are reported. Earlier speculation suggested Assad's plane might have crashed during his escape. The fall of Damascus marks a pivotal shift in Syria's tumultuous civil conflict.

South Korea faces a political crisis as opposition parties plan to impeach President Yoon Suk Yeol after his brief martial law declaration. Yoon apologized for the chaos but refused to step down, leaving his party to decide his fate. The Democratic Party demands his suspension and prosecution for alleged insurrection, alongside investigations into ex-defense officials. Massive protests outside parliament, with over 150,000 participants, amplify public anger. Prime Minister Han Duck-soo assured allies of stability amid ongoing tension. Yoon's controversial martial law, rescinded in six hours, remains a focal point of unrest in the nation.

Farmers resumed their ‘Dilli Chalo’ march on Sunday from the Shambhu border between Punjab and Haryana, demanding legal guarantees for Minimum Support Price (MSP) and farm loan waivers. Haryana Police stopped the group of 101 farmers with barricades and used tear gas, injuring several protesters. Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher announced the march’s suspension for the day, citing injuries. Protesters under Samyukta Kisan Morcha vowed to continue unless talks with the Centre commence. Security measures, including barricades and suspended mobile internet in Ambala villages, remain in effect. Farmers are also demanding pensions and justice for Lakhimpur Kheri victims.

Harshandeep Singh, a 20-year-old Indian student and security guard, was shot dead in Edmonton, Canada, on December 6, 2024. Police responded to reports of gunshots and found Singh unresponsive at an apartment building. Despite efforts to revive him, he was declared dead in the hospital. Two suspects, Evan Rain and Judith Saulteaux, both 30, were arrested and charged with first-degree murder. CCTV footage reportedly shows an attacker throwing Singh down the stairs before shooting him. The motive for the murder is still under investigation, and an autopsy is scheduled.

Farmers resumed their 'Delhi Chalo' protest march on December 8, 2024, with security heightened at the Shambhu border. Police have set up barricades and nails to prevent movement. Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher condemned the "brutality" faced by farmers, emphasizing that no laws were violated. Protests have entered the 300th day, with demands for a minimum support price (MSP) and loan rights still unaddressed by the government. Tamil Nadu farmers plan to join the protest in Delhi, continuing their fight for agricultural welfare and support from the central government.

India’s chances of qualifying for the 2025 ICC World Test Championship final are in jeopardy if they lose the Pink-Ball Test against Australia in Adelaide. A defeat would reduce India's points percentage from 61.11 to 57.29, pushing them out of the top two. With only three remaining Tests, India can’t afford another loss. To secure qualification, they need a maximum of one draw and two wins. A 3-2 series victory over Australia would give them a solid chance, but any further setbacks could eliminate them from the race.