Archive: 2025 / 08

Australia has pushed back against President Donald Trump’s “dead economy” dig at India and his 50% tariffs, with Trade Minister Don Farrell calling India a market full of “fantastic opportunities.” Canberra is doubling down on ties with New Delhi, from critical minerals to uranium and energy projects, while signaling a clear split with Washington’s protectionist turn.

David Healy said Linfield produced their worst display of the tie as Shelbourne ended their European run. The Linfield boss admitted he underestimated the gap between the Irish League and the League of Ireland, praising Shels’ preparation despite a mid-season coaching change. He pointed to good moments earlier in the series, including a resilient outing with 10 men, but said the gulf told in the end.

Aymeric Laporte headed Al‑Nassr level in a 1-1 draw at Al‑Taawoun, cancelling out Saad Al Nasser’s first‑half stoppage-time strike. The result stretches Al‑Taawoun’s unbeaten run against Al‑Nassr to three games and underscores how organized sides can frustrate star-studded teams. Laporte’s goal adds to a season showing his growing set‑piece threat and leadership.

Sri Lanka named a 16-man squad for two ODIs and three T20Is in Harare, with Charith Asalanka to captain both formats. Spin ace Maheesh Theekshana headlines the attack, while Zimbabwe recall Brendan Taylor after nearly four years away. Craig Ervine leads the hosts as they tune up for the 2025 T20 World Cup Africa Regional Final.

Sri Lanka edged Zimbabwe by 7 runs in the first ODI at Harare Sports Club, taking a 1-0 lead in the two-match series. Pathum Nissanka anchored with 76, while Kusal Mendis smashed 87. Zimbabwe’s chase ended at 291 after a brave fight, with Sikandar Raza starring in the field and in the chase. Big moments in the deep and tight death bowling made the difference.

Children’s author Jacqueline Wilson has been awarded the Dame Grand Cross (GBE) in the King’s New Year Honours 2025—the highest rank in the Order of the British Empire. The former Children’s Laureate is recognised for a career that reshaped children’s literature with honest stories about real-life struggles. She recently published her first adult novel, 'Think Again'. Fellow honourees include Kazuo Ishiguro and Stephen Fry.

Lancaster Footlights is staging Vicky Ireland’s adaptation of Jacqueline Wilson’s Bad Girls in June 2025 at the Lancaster Grand. The family-friendly show, suitable for age 7+, follows shy Mandy and bold Tanya as they navigate bullying, friendship, and choices. A local cast leads the amateur production, presented by arrangement with Nick Hern Books. Tickets are available via the Grand’s box office.

There’s no confirmed project to revive a long-closed Coventry hotel, despite online chatter. What is real: a multi‑million pound upgrade at the DoubleTree by Hilton at Coventry Building Society Arena and a hotel proposal tied to Coventry University’s city centre redevelopment. Here’s what’s happening, why it matters, and how to tell rumour from reality.

Protests against hotels housing asylum seekers spread across the UK after a court backed Epping Forest council’s bid to shut a migrant hotel. Demonstrations in Horley saw a larger anti-immigration crowd face a smaller anti-racist group under tight police watch. Officers reported scuffles and made arrests at several sites. The row comes as around 32,000 asylum seekers remain in 200 hotels nationwide.

Newcastle lost 3-2 to Liverpool after 16-year-old debutant Rio Ngumoha scored a 110th-minute winner. The hosts dominated early but trailed after Ryan Gravenberch scored before half-time, then saw Anthony Gordon sent off. Hugo Ekitike doubled Liverpool’s lead, before Bruno Guimaraes and Will Osula clawed Newcastle level. The game played out under the shadow of Alexander Isak’s ongoing transfer saga.