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Italy goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma has vowed to revive the national team after failure to reach the World Cup

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He failed to save any penalties while Italy’s Pio Esposito and Bryan Cristante missed.

Donnarumma said, “I cried because of the immense sadness of myself as well as the entire Azzurri team, whose captain I am proud to be, and I know that you, the fans of our national team, feel it too.”

The Manchester City keeper, who got his senior debut in 2016 at the age of 17, is yet to play a World Cup and will have to wait until he is at least 31 for his next opportunity.

He was 15 when Italy lost against Uruguay and was eliminated from the group stage of the 2014 World Cup.

He wrote that restoring his country “to where it should be” would require “a lot of strength, passion and conviction”.

The former Paris Saint-Germain and AC Milan keeper said, “Always have faith; that’s the driving force behind moving forward. Life rewards those who give their all without holding back.

“And this is where we must begin again. Together. Once again.”

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Harry Brookes and Jacob Bethel of England cautioned, but Josh Tong escaped action after a collision with a nightclub bouncer in New Zealand. Cricket News

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England white-ball captains Harry Brook and Jacob Bethell have been cautioned but Josh Tongue will not face further action for his altercation with a nightclub bouncer in New Zealand.

Brock was fined £30,000 by the England and Wales Cricket Board and warned about his conduct. After the incident in Wellington the night before the one-day international in November, England suffered a two-wicket deficit as they lost the series 3-0.

The 26-year-old insisted he was alone but later released a statement saying he regretted the comments and was protecting his teammates. The Telegraph reported batsman Bethel and fast bowler Tongo were also present and fined for their roles.

The cricket regulator, a body independent of the ECB that has the power to impose defamation charges, including fines and suspensions, if there is sufficient evidence, has now completed its investigation into the incident.

A statement read: “The cricket regulator has now completed its investigation into the incidents that took place prior to the men’s third one-day international against New Zealand between October 31 and November 1, 2025, in Wellington.”

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A cautionary notice has also been issued to Jacob Bethel.

“As a result of these investigations, the regulator has issued a cautionary notice to Harry Brook and Jacob Bethel in relation to their conduct on that night, which both players admit was in breach of regulation 3.2 of the 2025 Rules of Professional Conduct. The regulator will not take any further action against Josh Tong.

Brooke shared his thoughts on the bouncer incident.

“We had already gone out for a few drinks, but then I decided to go out for something else, and I was there by myself.”

“I was trying to get into a club and unfortunately, the bouncer cornered me.

“Like I said, I shouldn’t have been in this state to begin with... I wasn’t exactly skint; I had too many drinks.”

Brock vows to learn from ‘challenging era’

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Harry Brook admits he is lucky to still be England’s white-ball captain after a row with a nightclub bouncer.

Brooke’s statement released after the incident read: “I accept responsibility for my actions in Wellington and acknowledge that there were other people present that evening.

“I regret my earlier comments; I meant to protect my coworkers from the consequences of my actions.”

“I have apologised and will continue to reflect on the matter. It has been a challenging period in my career, but one that I am learning from.

“I admit I have a lot to learn about the off-field responsibilities that come with leadership and captaincy.

“I am committed to growing in this area and improving both personally and professionally.”

Watch England’s home international summer live on Sky Sports.

The three-test series against New Zealand will begin on June 4. Didn’t find the sky? Stream cricket contract-free now.

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This nuclear battery can last for 433 years and power the next era of deep space exploration.

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Space missions depend on power systems that can operate far from sunlight and without maintenance. Solar panels struggle in deep space, where light grows weaker with distance. That limitation has led agencies to rely on nuclear-based energy sources for decades. These systems, known as radioisotope power systems, have quietly supported missions operating in the Solar System. Spacecraft such as Voyager 1 and the Perseverance rover continue to operate using this technology. The concept is not new, but developments surrounding alternative isotopes are attracting renewed attention. The work, led by NASA in collaboration with the University of Leicester, aims to determine how long future missions could operate. A nuclear battery that could last for centuries is no longer just theoretical.

Plutonium-238 space nuclear battery: primary fuel used in space nuclear batteries

For decades, plutonium-238 has been the primary fuel used in space nuclear batteries. As mentioned, its half-life is approximately 88 years, meaning that its energy output slowly decreases over time. Missions operated by Oak Ridge National Laboratory and Idaho National Laboratory depend on this isotope for production and supplies. It remains the backbone of current deep-space power systems. Spacecraft such as the Curiosity rover continue to function using plutonium-based systems. The stable decay of the isotope provides enough heat to sustain instruments, communications systems, and onboard electronics for long periods. Production resumed after a period of limited production, supported by coordinated efforts across national laboratories. Due to the complexity of material handling and production, the supply is carefully managed.

americium-241 and its half-life was extended

Attention is now turning to americium-241 as a possible alternative. Its half-life is approximately 433 years, much longer than plutonium-238. This property means that the isotope retains usable energy for a long time. It does not necessarily produce more power at a given time, but it decays slower. Research involving Los Alamos National Laboratory focuses on improving production methods and evaluating safety and performance. Early-stage studies suggest it may be suitable for long-duration missions where extended power availability is required. According to a NASA report, testing of Americium-241 is still going on. It has not replaced plutonium in operational spacecraft. The evaluation process includes material stability, heat generation efficiency, and long-term reliability under space conditions.

How do nuclear batteries produce energy?

Radioisotope power systems, commonly referred to as ‘RPS’, utilise the natural decay of radioisotopes. As radioisotopes decay, heat is produced. This heat is then used to produce electricity through special means. This process continues continuously, i.e., there is no recharging in it nor is it dependent on the sun. It can operate in the dark, in the cold or in extreme conditions. Inside the radioisotope power system, the radioisotope is in a solid ceramic state. This method reduces hazards by keeping the radioisotope stable. The heat produced is then transferred to a converter, which uses it to produce electricity. The electricity produced is constant, not pulsed. These are small, reliable and long-lasting power sources, best suited for missions where reliability rather than the quantity of power produced is paramount.

Free-piston Stirling converters in space nuclear batteries

The heat produced by radioactive decay must be converted into useful electrical energy. The conversion is done using free-piston Stirling converters. Free piston Stirling converters have moving parts that float in the system. The moving parts are driven by temperature differences, and the motion is converted into electricity. The system is designed for low wear and tear, and the components remain floating in the system, making it suitable for long-term use in microgravity. Free piston Stirling converters have been tested, and results show that the system can operate for long periods of time without maintenance. According to reports, this system can work continuously for more than a decade.

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The Artemis II crew welcomes the crowd before heading to launch

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The Artemis II crew welcomes the crowd before heading to launch, April

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Mason Greenwood’s Jamaica stance and squad views as venue for World Cup

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Mason Greenwood could yet feature at the World Cup if he decides to switch his international allegiance to England.

 

Mason Greenwood is still undecided about his international future.

 

Jamaica are just one victory away from securing their place at this summer’s World Cup, but what about Mason Greenwood? It remains to be seen. They will face DR Congo on Tuesday night (10pm) after their semi-final victory over New Caledonia.

There has been much debate over whether the former Manchester United striker will represent Jamaica after reports emerged that he had obtained his passport last September. Expectations were high that he would link up with the squad for the first time during the World Cup qualifiers against Trinidad and Tobago and Bermuda.

Still, ESPN reported (via Fit Mercato) that he had not yet completed the change of association form required to represent Jamaica and declined the call-up. The national team had anticipated that he would participate in a training camp for these fixtures.

Here, the Manchester Evening News examines the latest developments regarding Greenwood and whether there is a real possibility for him to make the Jamaican national team.

Greenwood’s position

According to Jamaican head coach Rudolph Speed, Greenwood has yet to make a decision on its international future. Greenwood is considering whether to switch allegiances and is clearly keeping his options open.

However, it has been reported that he has ambitions to play for England again one day.

Comments from the President of Jamaica

Last November, Jamaican FA president Michael Ricketts revealed that the federation hoped to have him available for the 2026 World Cup play-off campaign. Despite the passage of months, the situation remains the same.

Mason Greenwood

Mason Greenwood is in form for Marseille.

 

“Initially, he seemed happy that his paperwork was finally in order,” Ricketts said. “When we sent him and I asked for his opinion, he told me it was the family’s decision not to make himself available at that time.”

‘He was expected to join.’

Former Jamaican head coach Steve McClaren admitted he expected Greenwood to join the national team in September. “We had obtained the passport, and we expected him to come to this camp,” he said at the time. “In discussions with his family, he will not commit to anyone at this time.”

Steve McClaren

Steve McClaren had expected Greenwood to rejoin Jamaica in September before leaving his role. (Photo: Getty Images)

 

“He’s taking his time on this matter, so it’s a little disappointing. We’ll probably have to be more patient, but we’ll keep in touch; we’ll keep pursuing him because, as I know from my conversations with Mason and his family, he loves and respects Jamaica.

“He wants to focus on club football and not be involved with an international team at the moment. We have to respect how hard we’ve worked to get him here for these camps. So who knows in the future.”

Anger of senior players

Former Newcastle United midfielder Isaac Hayden said he ‘can’t see why’ Greenwood, or any player who previously missed qualifying fixtures, should now be allowed to link up with the national team.

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‘I’ve only played for Jamaica for one year, and when I started, there was some resistance, but I’ve played 12 games, and everyone can see my passion and the way I play the game,’ Hayden said last year. “I give everything on the pitch, and I wanted to be there to help Jamaica advance to the World Cup.

“They want to have the best team on the pitch, but I said to the JFF: ‘If a player is not ready to commit to the last round of qualifying, unless he is injured, I don’t see why he should be in the group in March or at the end of the season if we qualify.’ There is no way such a scenario is allowed to happen.

Hayden went further, arguing that Greenwood’s late addition to the squad would compromise the team’s values ​​and integrity. “The quality of the player, his numbers, and what he is producing are of the highest level,” he admitted.

Isaac Hayden

Isaac Hayden has made his views clear on Greenwood’s possible inclusion in the squad ahead of the World Cup. (Photo: Getty Images)

 

However, it ultimately hinges on principles and integrity. If players can be swayed solely by the World Cup, it undermines the entire process. It says a lot about the player and the organisation that allows it.”

Defender Amari Bell expressed similar concerns, stating, “Many of us have dedicated years of hard work and effort to represent our nation, despite numerous challenges behind the scenes. We’ve had to deal with it all.

“It wouldn’t be fair to people who have gone through this process and will never get a chance to play in a World Cup. It’s a bit controversial.”

He further suggested that the squad would need a collective discussion before welcoming any new additions. “Definitely, especially when it’s the World Cup. You don’t want any distance between any of the players.”

Welcome back

Meanwhile, former Jamaican international Frank Sinclair has expressed interest in seeing Greenwood turn out for the Reggae Boys. He said, “I was in that situation myself when I decided to play for Jamaica when they qualified for the 1998 World Cup. That’s when I was asked to play. Jamaica will decide how to perform best if they qualify for the World Cup, and I wasn’t asked to play during the qualifiers.

“They may have a chance to recruit him once he gets there, but they still have a lot of work to do to get there. From a pure football perspective, the answer is clear: yes, absolutely. [Jamaica needs Greenwood back]. His football skills will significantly strengthen the Jamaican team. But it goes beyond that. Many people do not share the same opinion about him as a person.”

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“It all depends on what Jamaica wants to do to create a culture within the national team. That’s a tough question. From a purely football perspective, yes, of course, you want Mason Greenwood in your team. There are also things in the world that are more important than football, and that’s a tough question to answer.

The nation, players, and staff must accept and support it 100 per cent, as many will attempt to sabotage it. It’s not just a case of dual citizenship; now you can play for Jamaica. Representing Jamaica is much more involved.”

‘Frenzy to represent England again’

It was previously reported that the Marseille forward was ‘obsessed’ with pulling on the England shirt again, but Thomas Tuchel confirmed in September that the player was not high on his mind.

At the time, the head coach said: “I haven’t spoken to him yet. I haven’t spoken to him or his camp. My understanding is that he tries to play for Jamaica so we haven’t given him any other consideration. He’s not in the mix at the moment, and he’s not in our thoughts for our team.”

Whether Greenwood will be impressed if they seal their place at the World Cup with a win this evening is uncertain – but it would certainly put them in a strong position to persuade them to switch allegiances.

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British engineer found dead in Mumbai hotel while working on IPL cricket coverage

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John William Langford, 76, was found unconscious in his room at the five-star Trident Hotel in Mumbai’s Nariman Point.

Broadcast engineer John William Langford found dead in Mumbai during Indian Premier League T20 tournament

A British engineer working on Indian Premier League cricket coverage has been found dead in a hotel room in Mumbai.

The five-star Trident Hotel in Mumbai’s Nariman Point found John William Langford, 76, unconscious in his room. Mr Langford was working with the Board of Control for Cricket in India.

The broadcast engineer reportedly returned to his room after the Mumbai Indians vs Kolkata Knight Riders match at the Wankhede Stadium on March 29.

But when repeated calls to his room went unanswered the next day, worried hotel staff went to check on him. Upon receiving no response, the staff reportedly used the master key to gain entry, where they found him lying on the floor.

Trident Hotel Mumbai

John William Langford’s death in a room at the five-star Trident Hotel in Mumbai’s Nariman Point is at the centre of the investigation. (Image: booking.com)

The hotel’s in-house doctor was called before the Briton was taken to hospital and declared dead.

The IPL Governing Council issued a statement saying: “The IPL Governing Council and all stakeholders involved express our deepest condolences on the untimely passing of Mr Ian Williams Langford, a dedicated broadcast engineer who was an integral part of our broadcast operations. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.

“The IPL is committed to providing all necessary support and assistance to Mr Langford’s family during this incredibly difficult time. The health, safety and overall security of every member involved remain of the utmost importance to the smooth operation of the IPL.”

Ryan Rickelton, South African cricketer for Mumbai Indians

Mr Langford was working with the Board of Control for Cricket in India to cover the IPL T20 tournament (Image: AFP via Getty Images)

“The hotel receptionist tried to contact him and called his room but got no response. They waited and decided to check on him later. He was taken to the city’s Bombay Hospital, where doctors declared him brought dead,” said senior police officer Nilesh Bagul of the Marine Drive police station.

Mr Bagul confirmed that the British High Commission had been informed and Mr Langford’s son had been contacted. A decision regarding bringing back the body will be made after the results of the viscera report are available.

Police have registered a report of accidental death at Marine Drive police station and an investigation is now underway. Officials said they found nothing suspicious or any evidence of foul play in his post-mortem. Officials have not yet confirmed the cause of death.

A UK Foreign Office spokesperson said, “We supported the family of a British national who has died in India and we are in contact with local authorities.”

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King Charles III makes historic first US state visit to mark the 250th anniversary—but can he bridge the Trump-Starmer divide?

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Britain’s King Charles and Queen Camilla wait on Datchett Road to welcome Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his wife before a carriage procession to Windsor Castle in Windsor, England. (AP)

King Charles III will pay a state visit to the United States in late April to celebrate the 250th anniversary of American independence and mark closer ties between the two countries, Buckingham Palace said on Tuesday.

This visit is taking place after the state visit of US President Donald Trump to Britain in September. The event was a spectacular occasion that included glittering crowns, brass bands and a sumptuous banquet served in 200-year-old silver. Such spectacles aim to fortify ties between nations, particularly during challenging times.

 

It is understood that Trump is very fond of the royal family, but he has little patience for British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who has offered only defensive support for his long-time ally in the Iran war.

Charles has visited the US 19 times, but this trip will be his first state visit to the country. His mother, Queen Elizabeth II, made four state visits to the United States.

The King will also visit Bermuda, his first visit to an overseas territory as monarch.




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