Archive July 24, 2025

‘Speed, stamina and skill – Stokes is now England’s best seamer’

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Bristol and Headingley. World Cups two and a half. A surgeon’s scalpel for the hamstrings and knees.

In Ben Stokes’ last eight years, everything and much more has been crammed into.

Not for his batting or his lack of fielding prowess, he sheepishly led England from the field on day two of the fourth Test at Old Trafford, playing with the match ball in his hand.

He had taken five wickets in a Test innings for the first time since September 2017.

Eight months of waiting had gone into creating this historic moment.

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Stokes’ lack of consideration for such a result is incredibly disappointing.

“Something else to overcome…go on then!!!!!!!”! He then shared his social media posts.

There are still so many more bloody tears and tears to go through for my team and this shirt.

Following that, hours of rehab. squats first at home before working out at the gym.

After a brief jog, Durham’s home in Chester-le-Street follows a track.

In March, Stokes was jogging between cones while his county team-mates were doing their pre-season media duties.

A five-wicket haul in the final 76 Tests will reward that. No player in test history had to wait more than a year before accomplishing the feat.

The total for Stokes’ wickets against India this summer is 16 – the most on either side.

It is Stokes’ most scalps in a single series with three innings left, and this is also his busiest game ever.

His very first series, the 2013-14 Ashes, had shorter hair, a more youthful complexion, and a right arm bare of the Phoenix tattoo that now sums up his career.

You can’t beat Stokes’ bowling this summer, according to statistics.

His best speed since 2019 is 84.2%, which is above average. He has never improved, bowling 30% of deliveries on a good line and length.

But Stokes in 2025 has a lot to do with how it feels.

Before the knee and hamstring ops, Stokes was still trying in the 2023 Ashes, but it seemed to push the muscles that were holding him together past their limits when he attempted to bowl.

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Before this series even started, Stokes claimed that the time off from his January operation had made it easier to unintentionalize eccentricities that had entered his bowling.

He got inspired by watching clips of his 2020 Cape Town matchwinning performance against South Africa.

Opening liner Zak Crawley compared Stokes’ performance at Old Trafford to that of his day at Newlands, where he stood at third slip, with “so many similarities.”

“He was bowling right away at the time.” He now has that pace back and that forward movement from the right-hander, which is as important as anyone in the world, really.

He appears to have recovered from his injuries, which is a fantastic effort given the injuries he has sustained. “He’s a proper wicket-taker and he can make things happen,” he said.

The flow is returning, according to Crawley.

Stokes has gotten so far that he no longer appears to be a man who hurts with every step.

His action finds the kick and bounce from the flattest pitches thanks to his front-knee brace, which is rock solid.

Although the marathon spells were supposed to be prohibited, bursts of 9.2 overs and 10 overs in last week’s win at Lord’s, where no one but Joe Root’s Under-13s partner could take the ball from his hand, were followed by another 10 on the spin either side of lunch.

A flurry of wickets and a number of crucial ones came as a result.

The final-day thriller was based on Lord’s off stump, and Akash Deep and Ravindra Jadeja threatened the improbable when they left. Jasprit Bumrah stumbled out the following day.

Karun Nair and Shardul Thakur were dismissed by Stokes at Headingley, allowing Josh Tongue to clean up the tail. And in Manchester, he defeated his opposite team, Washington Sundar, Sai Sudharsan, the top-scoring innings player for India, and Shubman Gill, who had collaborated with Rishabh Pant to acclimatize the country.

Stokes has a legitimate claim to be the team’s player of the series despite not allowing a fifty in any of his six innings.

After that, England’s captain will have a planned three-and-a-half month off before the Ashes in Australia, where his Test debut was first, in a planned manner.

Stokes is now wiser.

Last week, Brydon Carse and his bowler Brydon Carse were able to escape Ravindra Jadeja’s confrontation, which Ian Bell did 12 years ago when the Australia wicketkeeper enjoyed a no-ball denying the all-rounder his first wicket.

England fans must now hold onto that levelheadedness. They must hope Stokes will know his body the best and never push it past its limits, as Joe Root suggested last week.

Because Stokes is a fourth seamer, which is a good thing, but it also does him a disservice.

The effort has paid off. Stokes is not a fourth-seamer.

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X Factor star Ella Henderson shares ‘devastating’ diagnosis after years of suffering

Ella Henderson, the former X Factor star, has revealed a diagnosis that she claims has “validated” her years of suffering.

Ella Henderson has opened up about her diagnosis(Image: Instagram/ellahendersonofficial)

Ella Henderson has revealed her diagnosis with endometriosis, calling it both “devastating” and “validating” after years of unexplained pain. The 29-year-old X Factor alum shared the news on Instagram, opening up about the emotional and physical toll of the condition that left her doubting her own reality.

The NHS defines Endometriosis as “a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows outside of it, most commonly in the pelvis, around the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and lining of the pelvis. This misplaced tissue can cause inflammation, pain, and potentially fertility issue.”

The Ghost singer acknowledged in a video that revealed her diagnosis that “the past few years have been a bit of a rollercoaster, to say the least, behind the scenes and I’ve really been struggling… with not only stomach bloating and physical pain and mental health, because at one point I thought all this pain was in my head and I wasn’t really believed.”

After years of dealing with confusing and challenging health issues like stomach bloating, bowel pain, and heavy periods, she finally received a diagnosis in January.

Ella Henderson has announced her endometriosis diagnosis
Ella Henderson has announced her endometriosis diagnosis(Image: Instagram/ellahendersonofficial)

I was given the official diagnosis of endometriosis in January of this year, along with countless GP appointments that resulted in scans, tests, and the impression that the pain was all in my head.

Both the bladder and bowel were affected by severe endometriosis and scarring behind her uterus after a laparoscopy.

Endometriosis occurs when cells similar to those found in the womb are found elsewhere in the body, Ella continued, “For those who are unfamiliar with this condition (just like I was only months ago).”

Henderson found comfort in knowing the source of her suffering despite having trouble hearing it: “The diagnosis was difficult to swallow but feels valid and empowering on the other hand. After all, it meant I wasn’t thinking about things and could finally find a way to move forward and take control of my body.

The X Factor star has suffered years of debilitating pain
The X Factor star has suffered years of debilitating pain(Image: Instagram/ellahendersonofficial)

She also cited the larger issue, noting how many people wait for answers by saying, “My long journey to endometriosis is not unique. For many of you, this can take an enormous mental and physical toll on you, as it typically takes up to nine years in the UK.

Ella was open about the psychological effects of living in periods of depression, isolation, and anxiety. I might have been spared if my endometriosis symptoms had been identified sooner.

She’s already had significantly better symptoms after having surgery. She emphasized, however, that her treatment will continue and that management is not a cure.

The singer says she finally feels 'validated'
The singer says she finally feels ‘validated’(Image: Instagram/ellahendersonofficial)

Although it took a while (like many other women out there), it gave me the opportunity to receive appropriate and transformative support.

Continue reading the article.

“Which, in my case, was surgery,” which has so far significantly reduced my symptoms. Unfortunately, endometriosis is not actually treatable, she continued, adding that ongoing management is likely to be a part of my life, whether through lifestyle modifications, pain management, or other treatments.

Fans and other celebrities praised Ella for being “brave” for sharing her diagnosis in her post.

US, Israel recall teams from Gaza ceasefire talks after Hamas proposal

Following Hamas’ most recent suggestion, which revealed “a lack of desire to reach a ceasefire,” special envoy Steve Witkoff of the United States has stated that he is cutting short talks aimed at a truce in Israel’s conflict with Gaza.

In a statement on Thursday, shortly after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office announced Israel had also called in its negotiating team from Qatar in response to the most recent diplomatic hush, Witkoff made the announcement.

Hamas did not respond right away. Israel has been repeatedly accused of preventing a ceasefire agreement by the group.

Hamas had earlier submitted its most recent response to a ceasefire agreement floated by US, Qatar, and Egypt mediators earlier in the day. The response was confirmed and declared under review by Netanyahu’s office. The contents were not made public by either side.

As Israel’s severe restrictions on the entry of aid continue to escalate, international pressure is being put on Hamas and Israel to reach an agreement.

Since Israel’s invasion of Gaza in October 2023, at least 115 people have died from malnutrition, mostly in recent weeks, as a result of warnings from the UN and international aid organizations about the widespread starvation that Gaza’s residents are experiencing.

Hamas does not appear to be coordinated or acting in good faith, according to Witkoff in a statement.

Without going into further detail, Witkoff said, “We will now look at alternative options to bring the hostages home and try to make a more stable environment for the people of Gaza.”

Businessman Witkoff, who had no prior formal diplomatic experience, said it was “sorry Hamas has acted in this selfish way” and that the US is still “resolute” in pursuing an end to the Gaza war.

A 60-day ceasefire, according to reports, would allow Hamas to release 10 living prisoners and 18 others’ remains from the current proposal under discussion. As the two parties engaged in discussions about a long-lasting truce, Palestinians who are currently imprisoned by Israel would be freed, and aid supplies would increase.

Officials from both sides have previously raised a conflict over what would happen if there were any new ceasefire, but details of the current conflict are not immediately known.

Despite being warned that such a goal is unrealistic, Israel has repeatedly stated that it intends to spend the long term on the military in Gaza in order to completely defeat Hamas.

Israel Katz, the country’s defense minister, reportedly proposed a plan to force Palestinians to be relocated to a “humanitarian city” within Gaza earlier this month. Critics claim this plan would be against international law.

The plan has drawn international criticism, with the Israeli government facing concerns that it would foreclose cease-fire negotiations and prevent the release of Palestinian prisoners who are still being held in Gaza.

Shihab Rattansi, a journalist from Washington, DC, claimed it was still unclear whether the US’s decision to leave the talks was a “negotiating tactic.”

He said, “It’s a very stern tweet about ‘alternative options for a more stable environment for the people of Gaza’.”

“We are aware that Trump hasn’t ruled out ethnic cleansing or, in his words, Palestinian “self deportation.”

We simply don’t know at this time whether it’s the negotiation position or the negotiations’ conclusion, Rattansi said.

Since Israel’s conflict with Gaza began following the Hamas-led attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, which claimed the lives of at least 1, 139 people, it has claimed the lives of at least 59,587 Palestinians.

James Whale says ‘I can’t go on much more’ as he shares heartbreaking cancer update

As he enters week seven of his 12-week prognosis, presenter James Whale revealed he is struggling to breathe, think, and talk.

James Whale has been given 12 weeks to live(Image: Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images)

TV and radio star James Whale has shared a devastating insight into his cancer diagnosis as he has just 12 weeks to live. The presenter left his fans heartbroken with his latest update since he was diagnosed with stage 4 kidney cancer in 2020.

He revealed that as he approaches week seven, he is struggling to breathe, speak, hear, and think. James acknowledged that he is forgetful, has a slow speech rate, and experiences pressure sores.

The host has remained committed in sharing updates with his fans as he has carried on his podcast, Tales of the Whales alongside his wife Nadine. On the emotional episode, James shared: “I can’t breathe, I can’t think, I can’t talk.

” Anyway. Good day, everyone. Welcome to our weekly podcast, Tales of the Whales. I have cancer that is five years old. Can you get five? James continued, “I appreciate everyone contacting me and wanting to meet up.

James Whale
He says he is struggling to breathe, talk and hear(Image: Instagram/jameswhaleradio)

When I make it difficult to get touched up, I’m not being rude. I mean… in touch”. You’re getting too tired, his wife Nadine said, so starting next week, we’ll only allow visitors to be very close friends and family.

I still can’t hear very well, which is more upsetting than anything else, James said. I’ve gotten very slow with my speech before getting forgetful and everything else.

He also mentioned how painful pressure sores were when he said, “I’m tootling along trying to get my breathing sorted and the mark on my bum. People must go through much more, don’t they? Do they”?

James heartbreakingly declared, “Anyway. I don’t think I can go on much longer. My energy levels have completely dropped, though.

Therefore, I wish everyone the best of luck and sincerely hope to move through these stages as quickly as possible. James had a kidney removed in 2000 after being first diagnosed with kidney cancer.

He revealed that his spine, brain, and lungs had been affected by the disease in 2020. Since then, the veteran broadcaster has endured turbulent circumstances.

Back in May, James told his fans he was “at the end” of his cancer journey as he announced the last of his long-running TalkTV programme. James sadly revealed his condition had worsened and that treatment was no longer an option.

I’m at the end of my cancer journey, he said while introducing the announcement to his Talk co-host Ash Gould. I can’t be treated anymore.

He continued, “I can’t tell you how grateful I am to Talk to have allowed me to sit next to Ash, which is a real pain in the butt, but I’ve done it for 25 years!”

Despite his health, James managed to joke: “It might actually be helping me, you never know, so I don’t let that cloud my judgment – but on the medication I am on, I’m all over the place. I’m hoping to go on for another few weeks, few months but as soon as I can’t do the show anymore, I won’t.”

Continue reading the article.

People living with cancer and their loved ones can receive private support from The Macmillan Support Line. If you need to talk, call us on 0808 808 0000.

READ MORE: ‘I had a spoon of Manuka Honey every day to help with hayfever – the results shocked me’

Hulk Hogan’s family issue tearjerking tribute as they vow to ‘cherish’ memories

For the first time since the WWE legend’s passing, Hulk Hogan’s family has spoken out. Following rumors of a cardiac arrest, the wrestling legend’s 71-year death was revealed on Thursday.

Hulk’s pal revealed that he was unable to talk, prompting reports that medics arrived at his Clearwater, Florida, home. Fans were concerned about Hulk’s health in recent weeks because a WWE icon’s representative refuted reports that he was seriously ill.

Hulk’s family took to his official Instagram page to reveal the news shortly after his passing. We confirm we have lost a legend, they said in their heartbreaking statement.

Terry Bollea, a beloved Hulk Hogan, passed away peacefully in front of his loved ones today. We ask that everyone respect his family’s and friends’ privacy at this time of grief.

“May we all find comfort in the wonderful memories he left behind for the lives of the millions of fans who have been affected by his for more than 40 years. He will be missed, but he will never be forgotten.

Hulk and Sky wed in 2023 (hulkhogan/Instagram).

After his marriage to Jennifer McDaniel ended in 2021, Hulk and Sky tied the knot. Before splitting in 2009, he was married to Linda Claridge, 65, for 26 years.

Brooke, 36, and Nick, 34, are the parents of two children. Due to Brooke’s absence from Hulk’s wedding to Sky, the couple had a family feud.

After getting engaged two months prior, the couple said, “I do,” in a “small affair” in Florida. The yoga instructor received a $100, 000 engagement ring from Hulk, who went all out.

Hulk’s new wife, according to a friend, “changed his life,” and she was “the happiest he’s ever been” with her. Unfortunately, his daughter Brooke did not arrive, the source confirmed.

Hulk Hogan
Hulk Hogan passed away at the age of 71 (Corbis via Getty Images).

Hulk’s health has become known this year, with the announcement that he had undergone a minor “fusion procedure” on his neck in May. A YouTuber made the claim that things “are not looking good” for him a month later.

A representative denied the rumor, claiming there were “no reasons to panic” and that Hulk’s surgery had been successful. He was later transferred home and taken to the hospital after complications, but he was still there.

Hogan’s co-host Lummy claimed on a Bubba The Love Sponge episode that she was “not doing well.” He is unable to speak. His trachea, or whatever, was damaged, and it doesn’t look good. It doesn’t appear at all.

Hulk's family have confirmed that he died surrounded by his loved ones
Hulk’s family has confirmed that he passed away surrounded by his loved ones (Getty Images).

Bubba told a hospital security guard that he had heard from the woman who was once sued by Hogan for leaking a sex tape of his wife and wrestler. He was taken to his home, but he is still lying in his hospital bed. He said, “It’s like he’s in a hospital.”

They have now “gone as far as they can at the hospital.” Simply put, they are making a hospital bed for him at home. After growing concern about the star’s health, Sky refuted rumors that he was in a coma.

WWE is saddened to learn that Hulk Hogan, a Hall of Famer, has passed away, according to a statement from World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) on X.

Hogan, one of pop culture’s most recognizable figures, helped the 1980s see the rise of WWE as a global force. Hogan’s family, friends, and fans are in mourning, according to WWE.

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