Tensions run high as Peter Dutton closes out penultimate week of election campaigning

Ellyse Perry's Birmingham Phoenix triumphed over Ash Gardner's Trent Rockets by 11 runs in a women's Hundred match at Edgbaston, with Perry contributing crucial bowling figures of 1-17 and leading her team effectively. Despite Nat Sciver-Brunt’s historic innings reaching 1000 runs in the tournament, the Rockets fell short, finishing at 6-137 while Gardner struggled with the bat, scoring only two runs. Want More Context? 🔎

New Zealand dominated the second day of the second Test against Zimbabwe, ending at 3-601 and establishing a 476-run lead, with Devon Conway, Henry Nicholls, and Rachin Ravindra each scoring centuries. After Zimbabwe's poor first innings total of 125, Nicholls (150 not out) and Ravindra (165 not out) formed a 256-run partnership, leaving Zimbabwe facing a daunting task to avoid defeat. Want More Context? 🔎

A rapidly growing brush fire, known as the Canyon Fire, has prompted evacuations for approximately 2,700 residents in the mountainous area north of Los Angeles, with the blaze consuming over 19.7 square kilometers and remaining uncontained. The fire, fueled by extreme heat and low humidity, is being fought by around 400 firefighters and several aircraft, as officials warn of elevated wildfire risks across California. Want More Context? 🔎

Pakistani security forces killed 33 militants crossing from Afghanistan, labeling them as "Indian-sponsored." This incident underscores the ongoing tensions between Pakistan and India, with both countries accusing each other of supporting insurgents amid a backdrop of previous military strikes and conflict over terrorist activities. Want More Context? 🔎

Australia's under-16 social media ban may fail to protect children from explicit content, as platforms like Messenger remain unaffected and harbor AI chatbots that can expose users to sexual and violent messages. Experts emphasize the need for improved digital literacy and platform accountability instead of relying solely on bans, warning that children may gravitate toward less regulated messaging apps. Want More Context? 🔎

Workers heading home experienced significant traffic disruptions due to a crash on Reid Highway westbound at Alexander Drive in Noranda, occurring just after 3pm. Additionally, a breakdown earlier on Mitchell Freeway northbound contributed to congestion, with Main Roads WA advising motorists to proceed with caution as traffic remained heavy. Want More Context? 🔎