Cricket icon MS Dhoni and football legend Lionel Messi have teamed up for a new Lay’s India advertisement, creating a buzz among fans. The commercial begins with Messi juggling a football with finesse, before passing it off to Dhoni, who surprises viewers by showing off impressive football moves of his own. The collaboration nods to Dhoni’s early sporting days, where he played as a school-level goalkeeper before switching to cricket. The ad marks a rare and exciting crossover between two of the world’s most beloved athletes, delighting fans across sports communities. (PC: X)

The Supreme Court has raised questions about the new Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, especially the removal of the “waqf by user” rule. This rule lets a property become waqf if used as one, even without official papers. The court suggested such properties should not lose their waqf status. The government disagreed and asked for a full hearing. Many petitions have been filed against the new law, including by politicians and religious groups. The court also pointed out that many old mosques have no sale deeds. The government will strongly defend the new law in court on Thursday. (PC: news18)

The UK Supreme Court has ruled that the legal definition of "woman" under the Equality Act 2010 refers to biological sex, not gender identity. This landmark decision followed a case brought by campaign group For Women Scotland against the Scottish Government. The ruling clarified that single-sex spaces and services can lawfully exclude trans women, even those with Gender Recognition Certificates (GRCs), if they are born male. The court emphasized that transgender individuals remain protected under the law, but public institutions may now need to revisit policies on spaces, services, and sports eligibility. (PC: Getty Images)

Four international students, including Indian national Chinmay Deore, have filed a federal lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, alleging unlawful termination of their F-1 student visas without prior notice. The students, enrolled at Michigan public universities, claim their immigration status was abruptly revoked in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS), placing them at risk of deportation. Represented by the ACLU of Michigan, the students are also seeking an emergency injunction to halt deportation during legal proceedings. The case reflects broader concerns about the Trump administration's crackdown on immigration and its impact on international education in the U.S. (PC: LinkedIn)

Despite ongoing speculation about his Test future, Rohit Sharma has hinted at captaining India in the upcoming five-Test series against England, starting June 20. Speaking on the Beyond23 Podcast with Michael Clarke, Rohit stressed the importance of a fully fit pace attack, particularly Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami, to tackle English conditions. The India skipper had a disappointing 2024–25 Test season and has also struggled in IPL 2025. However, sources suggest Rohit expressed his desire to lead the team in England during talks with BCCI after India’s Champions Trophy win. The series marks the start of a new WTC cycle. (PC: PTI)

Israel’s Defense Minister Israel Katz announced that Israeli troops will remain in designated "security zones" within Gaza even after the war ends, aiming to protect nearby Israeli communities. Katz also confirmed the continuation of the aid blockade, pressing Hamas to release hostages. The UN and humanitarian groups, including Médecins Sans Frontières, warned of catastrophic conditions in Gaza, describing the territory as a "mass grave." Over 1,650 Palestinians have died since hostilities resumed in March. Hamas rejected an Israeli ceasefire proposal demanding disarmament. Israel’s strategy is drawing criticism from hostage families and international observers calling for humanitarian relief and a ceasefire. (PC: AFP)

Delhi Capitals edged past Rajasthan Royals in a thrilling IPL 2025 encounter, clinching victory in the season’s first Super Over. Mitchell Starc showcased nerves of steel, defending nine runs in the final over to force the Super Over, where DC sealed the win. Chasing 189, RR ended at 188/4 despite a strong effort. Earlier, DC posted 188/5, powered by Abhishek Porel (49), KL Rahul (38), and explosive cameos from Axar Patel (34 off 14) and Tristan Stubbs (34* off 18). Sandeep Sharma’s expensive final over proved costly for RR. The match, held at Arun Jaitley Stadium, kept fans on the edge. (PC: BCCI)

LGBT+ organisations across the UK have expressed deep concern following a Supreme Court ruling that defines "woman" in UK law as based on biological sex. The Consortium, representing over 700 groups, warned of "widespread, harmful implications" for trans, intersex, and non-binary individuals. The decision arose from a legal battle between the Scottish government and a women’s campaign group. LGBT+ advocates say the ruling could impact healthcare, legal protections, and equality. The Consortium pledged to work with allies to clarify the ruling’s practical consequences and ensure affected communities receive support and information in the coming weeks. (PC: Sky News)

Pope Francis, 88, expressed gratitude to the medical team that treated him for double pneumonia during a five-week hospital stay at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital. Speaking in a soft, raspy voice without oxygen assistance, the pontiff thanked around 70 doctors and staff during a meeting at the Vatican on Wednesday. Though advised to rest for two months, Pope Francis has made several brief public appearances, signaling gradual recovery from his most serious health crisis in 12 years. With the Vatican preparing for its busiest religious season, including Easter, senior cardinals will lead major services as the Pope limits his participation. (PC: AP)

In the wake of violent clashes in Murshidabad, West Bengal, a widow recounted the brutal killing of her husband and son during protests over the Waqf Amendment Act. Masked attackers stormed their home, pelting stones and destroying property. Another victim, Pradipta Pal, said his shop was vandalized and torched by a mob of 150-200 people. Despite repeated calls, police reportedly didn’t respond. The violence erupted on April 11 in Dhulian, killing three and injuring several. Over 150 arrests have been made. BJP's Sukanta Majumdar alleged riot calls were made from mosque loudspeakers, as many victims took shelter in Malda camps.