The franchise Sunrisers Leeds has defended its decision to sign Pakistan mystery spinner Abrar Ahmed during the 2026 auction of The Hundred, saying it is “very pleased” to have him in the squad despite heavy online criticism. The signing sparked backlash from some Indian fans due to Ahmed’s past social media post linked to the 2019 India-Pakistan military standoff. Team officials clarified that the decision was based purely on cricketing merit. Head coach Daniel Vettori said the franchise needed a quality spinner after missing out on Adil Rashid and believed Ahmed was the best available option. The deal reportedly cost around £190,000. (PC: AP)

The United States and its Western allies clashed with Russia and China at the United Nations Security Council over Iran’s nuclear program amid escalating tensions from the ongoing Middle East conflict. Washington pushed to maintain oversight of sanctions through the UN’s 1737 Committee, accusing Moscow and Beijing of shielding Tehran and blocking enforcement measures. The proposal to continue discussions on the committee passed with 11 votes in favour, two against, and two abstentions despite Russian and Chinese opposition. US officials warned Iran has enriched uranium to around 60% without full international inspections, raising concerns about potential nuclear weapons capability, while Russia and China accused the US of escalating tensions. (PC: Reuters)

A US military KC-135 refuelling aircraft crashed in western Iraq while supporting operations linked to the ongoing Iran conflict, prompting an urgent search-and-rescue mission. The aircraft had five crew members on board when it went down, according to US Central Command. Officials said the crash occurred in “friendly airspace” and was not caused by hostile or friendly fire. Reports indicate that two KC-135 tankers were involved in the incident, with one aircraft crashing while the second managed to land safely despite sustaining damage. Authorities have not confirmed casualties yet as rescue teams continue efforts at the crash site amid heightened military activity in the region. (PC: AP)

Former US President Donald Trump has said Iran’s newly appointed Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei is likely still alive but may be seriously injured. Trump stated he believes Khamenei is “alive in some form” though possibly “damaged,” as speculation grows about his condition following recent US-Israel strikes on Iran. Reports suggest Khamenei suffered injuries during the attacks that killed his father, former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Since his appointment earlier this month, Mojtaba Khamenei has not appeared publicly, fueling rumours about his health. Iranian officials claim he is injured but still functioning as leader while the ongoing regional conflict continues to escalate. (PC: X)

Fresh explosions were reported in central areas of Dubai, sending thick black smoke rising above buildings and alarming residents amid the escalating Iran-US-Israel conflict. Witnesses reported loud blasts and shaking buildings in downtown districts, with visuals showing dark plumes over the skyline. Authorities are still assessing the cause, but the incident comes as Iranian missile and drone strikes expand across Gulf countries. UAE air-defence systems have reportedly intercepted several projectiles, though debris and explosions have been seen in parts of the city. The attack highlights the growing spillover of the Middle East war into major regional hubs. 

The Indian government has said reports claiming that Iran has allowed Indian ships to safely pass through the Strait of Hormuz are premature and not officially confirmed. The Ministry of External Affairs stated that External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has spoken several times with his Iranian counterpart about the safety of shipping and India’s energy security, but no formal assurance has been announced yet. The clarification comes amid the ongoing Iran-US-Israel conflict, which has disrupted maritime traffic and triggered attacks on multiple vessels in the region. The government said discussions with Iran are continuing while closely monitoring the situation, as the waterway is critical for global oil supplies and India’s energy imports. (PC: AP)

The United States has issued a temporary 30-day waiver allowing several countries, including India, to purchase Russian oil shipments that are currently stranded at sea. The decision by the US Treasury aims to ease pressure on global energy supplies as the ongoing Iran conflict disrupts oil transport routes and pushes prices higher. Officials clarified that the waiver only applies to cargo already loaded onto ships before March 5 and does not permit new Russian exports. Washington said the measure is designed to stabilise fuel markets and control rising oil prices while ensuring the move does not significantly increase Russia’s revenue during the crisis. (PC: X)

A US Air Force KC-135 Stratotanker refuelling aircraft crashed in western Iraq while supporting military operations linked to the ongoing Iran conflict. The aircraft went down during Operation Epic Fury, prompting an immediate search-and-rescue mission by US forces. Officials confirmed the incident occurred in “friendly airspace” and was not caused by hostile or friendly fire, though the exact cause remains under investigation. Two aircraft were reportedly involved in the mission, with the second landing safely. The number and condition of crew members were not immediately confirmed. The crash comes amid escalating regional tensions and intensive aerial operations as the US continues strikes and missions related to the war with Iran. (PC: AP)

An Indian sailor was killed after an Iranian underwater drone and explosive boat attack targeted the US-owned oil tanker Safesea Vishnu near Basra. The strike reportedly came after the vessel ignored warnings from Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy amid escalating tensions in the Persian Gulf. The explosion caused heavy damage and a fire onboard, while other crew members were rescued and taken to safety in Basra. The incident highlights growing threats to global shipping routes as the Iran–US–Israel conflict intensifies.

An India-bound crude oil tanker successfully crossed the conflict-hit Strait of Hormuz and reached Mumbai after briefly going “dark” to avoid detection during the Iran–Israel conflict. The Liberia-flagged Suezmax tanker Shenlong, carrying Saudi crude from Ras Tanura, switched off its AIS tracking system while navigating the high-risk waters. Maritime data showed its signals disappearing inside the strait before reappearing after passing the danger zone. The ship, captained by an Indian officer, later docked at Jawahar Dweep Terminal, highlighting growing risks to global shipping routes. (PC: X)