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In a pulsating Friday night showdown, Northampton Saints held off a resilient Castres Olympique side to clinch a 49‑41 victory and book a place in the Champions Cup quarter‑finals.Castres were hampered by discipline, receiving three yellow cards – two within a three‑minute spell in the first half and another ten minutes from the break – and missed three of six conversion attempts, leaving valuable points on the board.Saints, however, kept the ball alive, launching an attack on every possession. They crossed the try line seven times, including a penalty try, with fly‑half Anthony Belleau successfully slotting six conversions.The French side struck first when wing Christian Ambadiang capitalised on a scrum‑half kick to score in the corner after just seven minutes. He added an early intercept try and later forced a penalty try after pulling Saints winger James Ramm over the line, earning himself a yellow card.Discipline continued to bite Castres when second‑row Guillaume Ducat was sin‑binned for a high‑impact collision with Saints flanker Henry Pollock. Even with a numerical advantage, Castres struggled to retain possession, conceding a penalty that scrum‑half Jérémy Fernandez converted.Early in the second half, Saints broke the deadlock with a try from Josh Kemeny, followed by a score from Tommy Freeman nine minutes later, widening the gap.Castres fought back when centre Tyler Ardron intercepted a pass to touch down, but a subsequent handling error by Saints’ Santiago Arata prevented a further Castres try. Saints responded with a rapid interception by Vuate Karawalevu, though the try was disallowed for a prior knock‑on. The Saints then exploited defensive lapses, with George Furbank and James Ramm each adding scores.In the closing stages, Castres’ Vilimoni Botitu found the line, yet a yellow card for Veresa Ramototabua’s high tackle and a late try from Fraser Dingwall sealed the Saints’ win. The victory propels Northampton, last year’s losing finalists, into a quarter‑final clash against either Bath or Saracens.

The UK’s premier AI research centre, the Alan Turing Institute, has been instructed by its chief public funder, UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), to implement significant organisational changes. The directive follows a UKRI review that found the institute’s strategic alignment and value for money "not yet satisfactory".UKRI, which granted the institute a £100 million, five‑year funding package in 2024 and remains its largest single source of finance, said the review highlighted strong scientific foundations but a lack of clear strategic focus and delivery.Last summer, the government signalled that the institute must undergo a strategic overhaul, urging a shift toward defence and national security while downgrading work on health and the environment—previously two of its three core pillars.Leadership turbulence has accelerated the changes. Chief Executive Jean Innes resigned in September after staff unrest, and chair Doug Gurr stepped down this week to take up a permanent role at the UK competition watchdog.UKRI’s AI programme overseer, Prof. Charlotte Deane, stressed that achieving the UK’s AI ambitions requires institutions that are “focused, effective and aligned to national need.” She added that the review recognises the institute’s value but calls for significant change in several areas.To execute the recommendations, UKRI will work with the institute’s newly appointed chief executive, George Williamson, who comes from a government post centred on national security. The plan includes strengthening governance and placing defence and security at the core of the institute’s mission.The Alan Turing Institute collaborates with universities, private firms and government bodies, while UKRI invests £8 billion annually in UK research and innovation. A spokesperson for the institute acknowledged recent improvements in focus and governance but said it must move “faster and further.”“Working with funders and partners, we will be even more ambitious about the role we can play for the UK, and we welcome the confirmation of our clear, single‑purpose mission with national resilience, security and defence at its core,” the institute said.

Eric Overmyer, a highly influential figure in the world of television, has died at the age of 74. He succumbed to complications from Parkinson's disease, leaving behind a legacy of groundbreaking work in the industry. Overmyer was best known for his collaborations with David Simon, creator of 'Homicide: Life on the Street', 'The Wire', and 'Treme'. His work on these series, along with 'Bosch', an Amazon Prime series based on Michael Connelly's novels, cemented his reputation as a masterful showrunner. Overmyer's versatility in television was evident in his extensive portfolio, which included roles as a writer and producer on shows like 'St Elsewhere', 'The Slap Maxwell Story', 'The Cosby Mysteries', and 'Law & Order'. His ability to drive complex narratives with sharp dialogue was a hallmark of his work, influenced by his background as a playwright and poet. His best-known play, 'On the Verge', continues to be frequently produced and showcases his unique storytelling style. Overmyer's impact on television was not limited to his own creations; he also worked with other notable writers, including George Pelecanos and Dennis Lehane. Throughout his career, Overmyer remained busy, working on various projects, including the miniseries 'Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy Onassis' and the series 'The Affair' and 'The Man in the High Castle'. His legacy in the television industry is undeniable, and his contributions will continue to be celebrated by audiences and creators alike.

The ongoing closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial oil and gas shipping route blocked by Iran since the US-Israeli attacks began, is having ripple effects around the world. If the strait remains closed, transport blockages across the Middle East could cause significant shocks to food and medicine supplies in the UK.UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper is hosting a meeting with 35 other countries to discuss reopening the strait. Experts warn that a prolonged closure could lead to food price inflation doubling in England and medicine shortages due to disrupted supply chains.Impact on Food SuppliesProf Tim Lang from City St George's, University of London, warns that 'all bets are off' for food supplies if the crisis continues. Rising fossil fuel prices will impact food transportation and production, as fuel is used to transport food and produce fertilizers and other inputs.The farming sector is already facing problems, with dairy production hit due to delayed fertilizer purchases and salad vegetable and dairy producers facing disruptions. Iranian imports like pistachios and saffron are also affected.Impact on Medicine SuppliesWhile there's no hard evidence of medicine shortages yet, price increases are being seen, which can signal disruptions in the medicine supply chain. Iran does not manufacture many medicines but affects the sector through rising energy costs and transport links between major pharmaceutical-producing countries and the UK.David Weeks from Moody's notes that shortages are driven by delays in petrochemical precursors for active pharmaceutical ingredients. Medicine stockpiles in European countries, including the UK, can last up to six months, but long-term conflicts could lead to more severe shortages.

The United States is expanding its military footprint in the Gulf as the US‑Israel war with Iran enters its second month. Since the Feb. 28 launch of Operation Epic Fury, a joint air campaign targeting Iranian military and nuclear sites, more than four weeks of strikes have resulted in thousands of casualties.Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced the deployment of a third aircraft carrier, the USS George HW Bush, joining the USS Abraham Lincoln, which is currently conducting daily combat sorties from the Arabian Sea, and the USS Gerald Ford, now under maintenance in Croatia.These carrier groups carry thousands of sailors, Marines and specialised support personnel, forming the core of the US’s power projection in the region.Carrier Strike Group (CSG) refers to an aircraft carrier plus its escort ships and support units that together function as a floating base. A typical CSG includes:An aircraft carrier60‑75 fighter jets and helicopters2‑4 Arleigh Burke‑class destroyersA guided‑missile cruiserA submarine for underwater protectionSupply shipsAs of April 1, the USS Abraham Lincoln remains the only carrier launching daily combat missions against Iranian targets, while the USS George HW Bush is en route and expected to eventually replace the Gerald Ford in the Mediterranean.Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) operates as a mini‑carrier, carrying US Marines and equipment for sea‑to‑land invasions. The USS Tripoli ARG arrived in the Middle East on March 27, and the USS Boxer ARG is expected to join the theater by mid‑April. An ARG typically comprises:Three specialised ships~2,200 Marines (a Marine Expeditionary Unit)Short‑takeoff aircraftLanding craft for beach assaultsThe key distinction: ARGs are built to land troops on shore, whereas CSGs are designed to project air power and conduct major naval warfare.A Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) is a rapid‑response, self‑contained force of 2,200‑2,500 Marine Corps personnel capable of combat and humanitarian missions. On Friday, US Central Command confirmed that 2,200 Marines from the 31st MEU arrived in Middle Eastern waters after departing Sasebo, Japan, on March 13. A second unit, the 11th MEU with roughly 2,500 Marines, is inbound after leaving San Diego on March 18.The Pentagon has also ordered about 2,000 soldiers from the 82nd Airborne Division to move to the region, adding to the approximately 50,000 US troops already stationed in the Middle East.An MEU is organized into four elements:Command Element – ~200 personnel for planning and command‑and‑control.Ground Combat Element – ~1,200 troops centered on an infantry battalion with artillery and armoured vehicles.Aviation Combat Element – ~500 personnel operating transport helicopters, attack aircraft and Osprey tilt‑rotors.Logistics Combat Element – ~300 personnel providing up to 15 days of self‑sustainment, including medical, engineering and maintenance support.MEUs are typically deployed aboard a three‑ship ARG, which serves as a floating base. The ships include:Landing Helicopter Assault/Dock – a small carrier carrying short‑takeoff aircraft such as F‑35Bs and attack helicopters.Amphibious Transport Dock – a mid‑size vessel transporting troops and heavy vehicles.Dock Landing Ship – primarily for cargo and heavy equipment.MEUs can execute sea‑to‑land assaults, raids, evacuations, humanitarian aid and disaster‑relief operations, and they are often the first forces on the ground in emerging conflicts.The US Marine Corps maintains seven active MEUs; the 31st (Asia‑Pacific) and 11th (West Coast) are currently assigned to the Iran war. The other units are distributed as follows:East Coast: 22nd, 24th, 26th MEUWest Coast: 11th, 13th, 15th MEUAsia‑Pacific: 31st MEUTypically, three MEUs are forward‑positioned at any time, rotating through deployments in the Mediterranean, Gulf and Asia‑Pacific regions.Historically, MEUs have played pivotal roles in US operations: during the 2001 Afghanistan invasion, the 15th and 26th MEUs conducted one of the longest amphibious vertical insertions; in 2003‑2004 they helped secure Iraqi ports and fought in Fallujah; and in 2024 they provided sea‑based support for the attempted abduction of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.

A federal judge has temporarily blocked President Donald Trump's $400m White House ballroom project, ruling that it requires congressional approval. The decision comes after the National Trust for Historic Preservation sued Trump, alleging he exceeded his authority by demolishing the historic East Wing and starting construction on the new building.District Judge Richard Leon granted a preliminary injunction, stating that no statute gives the President the authority to undertake the project without congressional approval. Leon, appointed by former President George W. Bush, emphasized that the President is the steward of the White House for future generations, not its owner.The ruling halts construction on the 90,000 square-foot ballroom project while the lawsuit continues. However, Leon allowed for construction necessary for safety and security to proceed. The judge has given the Trump administration 14 days to appeal, which the Justice Department has done.Carol Quillen, president and CEO of the National Trust, welcomed the ruling, calling it a win for the American people. In response, Trump called the National Trust left-wing 'lunatics' and claimed his ballroom project is under budget, ahead of schedule, and will be the finest building of its kind anywhere in the world.

Cooper Lutkenhaus, a 17-year-old American high school student, has taken the athletics world by storm by becoming the youngest world champion in track and field history. He achieved this incredible feat by winning the 800m indoor world championship in Torun, Poland.Lutkenhaus's remarkable talent has drawn comparisons to top athletes like David Rudisha, with Belgian athlete Eliott Crestan saying, 'He's like David Rudisha... In 10 or 20 years' time, I'll be able to say that I ran against him.'The young athlete's coach, Chris Capeau, attributes his success to a combination of 'God's gifts, his mum and dad's genetics, and his upbringing.' Capeau also highlights Lutkenhaus's intense focus on detail and his ruthless approach to maximizing his potential.Lutkenhaus's achievements have made him a sensation in the athletics world, with many eagerly anticipating his future performances, including his participation in the Eugene and Stockholm Diamond League this summer.Despite his remarkable success, Lutkenhaus remains humble and grounded, celebrating his gold medal with a simple burger and fries with his family. His father, George, emphasizes the importance of allowing his son to enjoy the moment and not getting caught up in the hype surrounding his achievements.

Cricket Australia released its 21‑man contract roster for the 2026‑27 season, rewarding most Ashes‑winning players but leaving out Sam Konstas and veteran all‑rounder Glenn Maxwell as the board prepares for an unusually dense calendar. Fast‑bowler Brendan Doggett, who debuted in the opening Ashes Test at Perth last November, secured his first national contract. Meanwhile, opener Jake Weatherald retained an upgraded deal despite a modest series average of 22.33 runs. Both Michael Neser and spinner Todd Murphy were again awarded full contracts, reflecting the board’s focus on depth ahead of a schedule that kicks off with a two‑match home Test series against Bangladesh in August. Following the Bangladesh series, Australia will embark on ODI tours of Zimbabwe and South Africa, a home white‑ball series versus England, and a marathon stretch of 10 Test matches in 14 weeks. The latter includes contests against New Zealand, India and the historic 150th Anniversary Test at the MCG. Konstas, who burst onto the scene with a memorable 60‑run debut against India on Boxing Day 2024, failed to build on that promise, accumulating only 103 runs across nine further Test innings for an average of 16.30. The lack of consistency cost him a place on the new list. Despite the setback, selector chair George Bailey stressed that the 20‑year‑old’s journey is far from over. “He is highly talented and still on a development path,” Bailey said. “We saw encouraging signs toward the end of the season, with more consistent starts in the Sheffield Shield.” Bailey added that Konstas could feature in the upcoming Australia A tour to India, noting the board’s continued interest in his progress. Alongside Konstas and Maxwell, the contract cuts also affected Lance Morris, Jhye Richardson and Matt Short. Long‑time opener Usman Khawaja remains absent following his retirement. Weatherald’s contract renewal signals the selectors’ confidence in his potential to open the batting against Bangladesh, although Bailey cautioned that final selections will be made closer to each series, with extensive camp periods in Brisbane to fine‑tune the squad. Current contracted players: Xavier Bartlett, Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Pat Cummins, Brendan Doggett, Nathan Ellis, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Matthew Kuhnemann, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Todd Murphy, Michael Neser, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Jake Weatherald, Beau Webster, Adam Zampa.

Johannes Radebe, also known as Jojo from Strictly, is a natural performer who shines brightly as Lola in the musical Kinky Boots. His stage presence is magnetic, and his dancing is mesmerizing. Radebe's portrayal of the drag queen Lola is captivating, with impressive entrances and a strong performance.The musical, based on the 2005 film, tells the story of a Northampton shoe factory that switches to making boots for drag queens. The show features a riot of colors and sparkle, with impressive costumes designed by Robert Jones and Tom Rogers. The story follows Charlie Price, who returns to his hometown to take over the family business and, along with Lola and her friends, devises a plan to save the factory.Radebe's performance is supported by a talented cast, including Courtney Bowman as Lauren and Scott Paige as George. While Radebe's singing voice may not be as strong as his dancing, he brings a unique energy to the role. The show's direction by Nikolai Foster ensures that the cast delivers the right tone, but the musical may lack depth in its storytelling.Overall, Kinky Boots offers an enjoyable night out, with a blend of music, dance, and comedy. The show runs at the London Coliseum until July 11.