Afghanistan's remarkable journey in world cricket continues, reaching the T20 World Cup semi-finals for the first time. Their ascent is attributed to the team's determination and India's support. Since gaining full ICC membership in 2017, Afghanistan has received guidance and resources from the BCCI. India has hosted Afghan teams, providing valuable exposure and experience. The BCCI has also shared coaching expertise, helping Afghanistan develop a strong cricket structure. This collaboration has enabled Afghanistan to produce impressive performances, defying their underdog tag. As they aim for greater heights, India and BCCI's contributions will remain a vital part of their success story.

Rahul Gandhi extended conditional support to the NDA government's candidate for Lok Sabha Speaker on Tuesday. He stated that Congress would back the NDA's choice if the Deputy Speaker post is allocated to the opposition alliance INDIA bloc. Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav also echoed this demand. The Congress leader’s offer followed discussions with Rajnath Singh. Meanwhile, incumbent Speaker Om Birla, who met PM Modi, is likely to be re-nominated by the NDA. This move could see Birla re-elected unopposed, with the opposition possibly securing the Deputy Speaker role.

Australia’s T20 World Cup journey ended shockingly as Afghanistan defeated Bangladesh by eight runs (DLS method) in St Vincent. Despite Australia's earlier loss to India, hopes hinged on Bangladesh upsetting Afghanistan. However, Afghanistan defended their 115-5 total, bowling out Bangladesh for 105 in 17.5 overs. Key performances from Naveen-ul-Haq (4-26) and Rashid Khan (4-23) secured Afghanistan’s first semi-final berth in T20 World Cup history. Australia, the 2021 champions, exit after the Super Eight stage. Afghanistan will face South Africa in the semi-finals.

Government sources assert that West Bengal was informed about discussions with Bangladesh on the Teesta and Farakka water-sharing treaties, contradicting Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s accusations of exclusion. The Centre had sought Bengal's input for an internal review committee last year, and the state nominated a representative. The 1996 Farakka Treaty, set to expire in 2026, and future management of the Teesta River were key topics in recent Indo-Bangladeshi talks. Banerjee's letter to PM Modi expressed concerns about the treaties' impacts on West Bengal, urging for state involvement in the negotiations.

England has qualified for the Euro 2024 last 16 after Spain's 1-0 win over Albania guaranteed their progression. With one group match remaining against Slovenia, Gareth Southgate's team, currently with four points, is assured a spot among the best third-placed teams. Victory or a draw, combined with Denmark's failure to win against Serbia, could see England top Group C. They face the prospect of meeting a third-placed team from Group D, E, or F if they win, or hosts Germany if they finish second.

NASA faces criticism for overlooking a minor helium leak in the Starliner spacecraft prior to its recent launch. The issue, initially deemed insignificant, escalated into four additional leaks post-launch, rendering one thruster inoperative. This has postponed the return of astronauts Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams from the ISS until at least July 2. Despite these setbacks, NASA remains confident in the Starliner's performance and is conducting a thorough review. Boeing, already under scrutiny for safety issues, faces increased pressure to address these leaks, which could impact the future of the Starliner program.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee criticized the central government for excluding her from water-sharing talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Bangladesh’s Sheikh Hasina. Banerjee expressed strong objections to the discussions on the Teesta River without Bengal’s input. In a letter to Modi, she emphasized the severe implications for Bengal, urging the Centre to consult the state before proceeding with the agreement. Banerjee has long opposed the Teesta pact, citing erosion and flooding concerns due to the Farakka Barrage, and called for prioritizing Bengal's interests.

Delhi Water Minister Atishi's hunger strike over the capital's water crisis ended after her health deteriorated. The 43-year-old was hospitalized due to low blood sugar levels, which dropped to 36. Aam Aadmi Party MP Sanjay Singh said Atishi was admitted to Lok Nayak Hospital's ICU after doctors warned of a life-threatening situation. Her hunger strike lasted five days, during which her condition worsened significantly. The party shared pictures of Atishi being taken to the hospital, highlighting the gravity of her condition. Her health is being closely monitored.

Afghanistan made history by advancing to their first-ever T20 World Cup semifinals after a thrilling 8-run win over Bangladesh. Despite a modest total of 115, Rashid Khan's 4-wicket haul and Naveen-ul-Haq's crucial last two wickets secured the victory. Bangladesh's 105 all-out wasn't enough to overcome Afghanistan's defense. India's win over Australia earlier ensured Afghanistan's semifinal spot, eliminating Australia and Bangladesh. Afghanistan will face South Africa in the first semifinal on Thursday, while India takes on England in the second semifinal. This marks a historic milestone for Afghanistan in international cricket.

The European Space Agency (ESA) has released a high-resolution image of Ram Setu, a natural limestone bridge connecting India and Sri Lanka. The Copernicus Sentinel-2 satellite captured the breathtaking photo of the 48km-long structure, which is revered in Hindu mythology as a bridge built by Lord Ram to reach his wife Sita. The image shows Ram Setu stretching from India's Rameshwaram island to Sri Lanka's Mannar island, separating the Palk Strait from the Gulf of Manna. This geological wonder is a significant part of India's cultural heritage and a popular tourist destination.