Kingdom of Tonga in Polynesia, a Pacific island state with 171 islands
The UN Security Council has conducted a straw poll for the next secretary-general, with Rodrigues-Birkett leading the field, followed by Grynspan and Grossi. Several other contenders remain, and a formal vote in the General Assembly will determine the outcome. The process involves nine votes in the Council and potential vetoes by the five permanent members.
England's rugby union head coach Steve Borthwick has had his contract extended past the 2028 Six Nations to provide certainty ahead of next year’s World Cup in Australia. The RFU says the move will allow time to decide leadership beyond the tournament while backing the team if they perform well in Australia.
Australia defeats South Africa in a dramatic Perth Test, extending Les Kiss’s unbeaten run. The Wallabies build a high‑scoring lead before a late, multi‑yellow-card fightback by the Springboks narrows the gap, but a final push falls short.
The Guardian and BBC reports show England and Australia naming their squads for upcoming World Cup fixtures, with heritage-based selections and debuts for several players. The Guardian notes changes in Wales and Australia XIII selections, while BBC coverage highlights England’s half-back choices ahead of Perth clashes. The tone remains focused on squad depth and upcoming tests as the tournament begins.