Global Pulse

标签： Oceania

大洋洲

  • ‘Dark days’: Storm provide Eli Katoa update following encouraging training scenes

    ‘Dark days’: Storm provide Eli Katoa update following encouraging training scenes

    Melbourne Storm officials have provided a significant update regarding injured forward Eli Katoa’s rehabilitation journey after the player was observed participating in limited training activities this week. The club’s director of football, Frank Ponissi, has tempered expectations despite encouraging social media footage showing Katoa engaging in ball work, running exercises, and stationary cycling.

    Katoa’s medical situation stems from a traumatic incident during Tonga’s Test match against New Zealand in November 2025, where the elite edge forward sustained three separate head impacts within a devastating 90-minute window. The severity of his injuries culminated in seizure activity on the bench, necessitating emergency neurosurgery to alleviate intracranial pressure followed by a two-week hospitalization in Auckland.

    The Storm organization had previously announced on November 18, 2025, that Katoa would be unavailable for the entire 2026 season due to the nature of his injuries. While his recent appearance at training has generated optimism among supporters, club management emphasizes that his rehabilitation remains in early stages with numerous medical milestones yet to be achieved.

    Ponissi highlighted the psychological benefits of Katoa’s gradual reintegration into team environments, noting that being around teammates has significantly improved the player’s mental wellbeing following what he described as ‘some dark days’ during recovery. The club has implemented a strictly regulated training regimen specifically tailored to Katoa’s current capabilities, prioritizing long-term health outcomes over competitive timelines.

    Medical professionals maintain their original assessment regarding competitive readiness, but the organization remains committed to supporting Katoa’s holistic recovery through controlled involvement with team activities. This approach balances physical rehabilitation with crucial psychological support mechanisms during what Ponissi characterized as ‘a long, long journey’ ahead for the celebrated Dally M Second-Rower of the Year.

  • Overseas scholars drawn to China’s scientific clout, funding

    Overseas scholars drawn to China’s scientific clout, funding

    China is rapidly transforming into a global magnet for scientific talent, attracting overseas researchers through unprecedented funding resources and expanding research capabilities. While government initiatives like the Thousand Talents Plan have historically targeted top-tier experts, the country’s academic institutions are now independently drawing early-career scientists seeking advanced facilities and rapid innovation cycles.

    Interviews with international scholars reveal a significant shift in perception. Mejed Jebali, an AI researcher from Tunisia at Shanghai Jiao Tong University, noted the remarkable pace of development: “The scale of the research and how fast things get built is really amazing.” This sentiment is echoed across disciplines, from materials science to medical research, where China’s investment in strategically important fields like artificial intelligence and quantum computing creates compelling opportunities.

    Statistical evidence supports this trend. Although no official database exists, at least 20 prominent STEM experts have relocated to Chinese institutions in the past year alone. Notable transitions include cancer specialist Feng Gensheng leaving a tenured position at the University of California for Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, and German medical scientist Roland Eils taking a part-time role at Fudan University.

    Professor Futao Huang of Japan’s Hiroshima University observes: “A significantly greater number of overseas scientists—particularly those of Chinese origin—have returned to work in China compared with around 10 years ago.” This reverse brain drain is accelerated by both pull factors (abundant resources, market access) and push factors (increasing research security regulations and visa scrutiny in Western nations).

    China’s academic quality has reached global parity, with Nature Index data showing four of the top five research institutions in natural and health sciences are now Chinese. This represents a dramatic reversal from historical Western dominance. Insect migration expert Jason Chapman, recently seconded to Nanjing Agricultural University, acknowledged: “I wouldn’t have done it 15 years ago,” but now finds the funding and support “far more than available overseas.”

    Despite these advantages, challenges persist regarding academic freedom, geopolitical tensions, and cultural adaptation. Researchers note concerns about collaboration restrictions with military-linked institutions and must navigate different academic social structures. However, for motivated scientists seeking to advance their research programs, China presents an increasingly attractive proposition in the global scientific landscape.

  • Strasbourg face pitfalls of multi-club system as Chelsea take Rosenior

    Strasbourg face pitfalls of multi-club system as Chelsea take Rosenior

    The football world is grappling with the escalating implications of multi-club ownership models, a phenomenon thrust into the spotlight by Liam Rosenior’s controversial transition from Strasbourg to Chelsea. Both clubs operate under the BlueCo consortium, helmed by American investor Todd Boehly, highlighting a growing trend where 200-300 clubs worldwide are now enmeshed in such interconnected networks.

    This move has ignited fury among Strasbourg supporters, who perceive their team as being relegated to a ‘feeder club’ status within a clearly defined hierarchy. The loss of their promising young coach to Premier League giants Chelsea, coupled with the impending transfer of club captain Emmanuel Emegha, has intensified feelings of disenfranchisement. This scenario exemplifies the inherent conflicts when a smaller club’s assets—both human and tactical—are strategically redirected to benefit the consortium’s flagship entity.

    Despite fan frustrations, sports economists point to tangible benefits for smaller clubs within these structures. Christophe Lepetit of the University of Limoges notes that without BlueCo’s backing, Strasbourg would lack access to current squad talents, including the retention of Emegha last summer and Argentine forward Joaquin Panichelli. The club has also benefited from loan arrangements, securing players like England defender Ben Chilwell and Brazilian midfielder Andrey Santos from Chelsea.

    The model presents a complex duality: while it provides financial stability and talent access, it simultaneously erodes club autonomy and fan identity. Luc Arrondel, a researcher at the French National Centre for Scientific Research, emphasizes that supporters consider themselves the ‘only loyal entities’ in an ecosystem where players, coaches, and ownership increasingly fluctuate.

    This ownership revolution is further complicated by regulatory challenges. UEFA’s rules on multiple ownership recently forced Crystal Palace’s relegation to the UEFA Conference League to avoid competing with fellow Eagle Group member Lyon. As private equity funds continue diversifying football investments to mitigate risks like relegation, the sport faces fundamental questions about competitive integrity, fan acceptance, and the future balance of power in global football.

  • The Ashes 2025-26: Jacob Bethell coming-of-age knock saves England from innings defeat

    The Ashes 2025-26: Jacob Bethell coming-of-age knock saves England from innings defeat

    Amidst a challenging Ashes series for England, a new cricketing prodigy has emerged to justify the nation’s faith in its future talent. Jacob Bethell, the 22-year-old left-handed batsman, delivered a stunning century on day four of the fifth Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground, single-handedly preventing an innings defeat against Australia.

    The young batsman arrived at the crease under immense pressure following the early dismissal of Zak Crawley in Mitchell Starc’s first over. Demonstrating remarkable composure, Bethell constructed his innings with a sophisticated blend of drives and precision cuts through point. His journey to triple figures culminated dramatically as he faced seven dot balls on 99 before confidently launching Beau Webster for a boundary, much to the relief of his anxious family watching from the stands.

    Cricket legends immediately recognized the significance of the performance. Former England captain Michael Vaughan declared ‘a star is born here at the SCG’ during Fox Cricket’s commentary, while Australian great Mark Waugh praised Bethell’s optimal balance between defensive solidity and scoring opportunities. The innings contained particularly memorable moments, including two exceptional boundaries against Cameron Green in the 33rd over that showcased both his backfoot and frontfoot technique.

    Bethell’s resilience was further evidenced when he recovered from being struck in the head early in his innings, displaying a maturity beyond his years. His technical prowess drew comparisons to former England captain Andrew Strauss from Hall of Fame fast bowler Brett Lee, who remarked ‘the kid can play’ after witnessing one particularly elegant frontfoot drive.

    The selection dilemma surrounding England’s decision to start the series with Ollie Pope at number three instead of Bethell now looms large as a significant ‘what-if’ of the series. Bethell’s performance not only surpassed Pope’s series tally in fewer innings but also demonstrated his capability on difficult pitches, having previously looked England’s most composed batsman on a challenging Melbourne wicket.

    As Australia now faces a tricky fourth innings chase, with several batsmen playing for their careers, Bethell’s innings has not only changed the complexion of this Test but has also signaled a potential shift in the rivalry’s future dynamics. With the aging Australian team facing transition questions, Bethell’s emergence presents a formidable challenge for the Australians when the next Ashes series commences on English soil in 18 months.

  • Bethell stands tall as England 174-3 in final Test, nine behind

    Bethell stands tall as England 174-3 in final Test, nine behind

    Emerging batsman Jacob Bethell delivered a commanding performance, remaining unbeaten on 79 runs as England reached 174-3 at tea on day four of the final Ashes Test at Sydney Cricket Ground. The tourists now trail Australia by just nine runs, with Harry Brook providing support at 24 not out. The 22-year-old Bethell is now poised to pursue his maiden Test century in the final session.

    Australia had earlier been dismissed for 567 in their first innings, building a substantial lead of 183 runs thanks to impressive centuries from Travis Head (163) and captain Steve Smith (138). England’s response faced early adversity when captain Ben Stokes exited the field with a suspected groin injury while bowling during the morning session, casting doubt on his batting availability.

    The English innings began shakily as Mitchell Starc claimed his 29th wicket of the series, trapping Zak Crawley lbw for just one run in the opening over. Ben Duckett contributed 42 runs before chopping on against Michael Neser, while veteran batsman Joe Root, fresh from his first-innings 160, fell cheaply for six runs to Scott Boland’s persistent bowling.

    Despite these setbacks, Bethell displayed remarkable composure at the crease, reaching his fourth Test half-century with a boundary off Starc. His partnership with Brook has provided England with hope of securing a consolation victory after Australia had already retained the Ashes with a 3-1 series lead.

    Earlier in the day, Australia’s innings concluded with Beau Webster remaining unbeaten on 71, while Josh Tongue (3-97) and Brydon Carse (3-130) were the most successful English bowlers.

  • Ex-CIA agent convicted of spying for Soviets dies in prison

    Ex-CIA agent convicted of spying for Soviets dies in prison

    Aldrich Hazen Ames, the former Central Intelligence Agency officer whose espionage for the Soviet Union stands as one of the most damaging breaches in American intelligence history, has died in federal custody at age 84. The Bureau of Prisons confirmed his death on Monday while serving a life sentence without parole.

    Ames leveraged his 31-year tenure as a counterintelligence analyst to compromise U.S. operations from 1985 to 1993, systematically betraying national secrets in exchange for over $2.5 million from Soviet and later Russian intelligence services. His disclosures led directly to the execution of at least a dozen U.S. assets operating within Soviet territory.

    Operating from his strategically sensitive position as head of the CIA’s Soviet branch, Ames provided Moscow with comprehensive intelligence, including the identities of double agents and highly classified operational details. The magnitude of his betrayal became apparent through his family’s conspicuously lavish lifestyle—maintaining Swiss bank accounts, purchasing luxury vehicles like a Jaguar, and accruing $50,000 in annual credit card expenditures.

    The exposure of Ames in 1994 triggered seismic repercussions across diplomatic and intelligence spheres. His actions deliberately misinformed three presidential administrations—Reagan, George H.W. Bush, and Clinton—regarding Soviet military capabilities through fabricated intelligence assessments. The subsequent investigation compelled the resignation of then-CIA Director James Woolsey and initiated sweeping institutional reforms under successor John Deutch.

    International relations deteriorated rapidly as the White House expelled Russian diplomat Aleksander Lysenko for alleged involvement, while Moscow dismissed the incident as American emotionalism. The Ames case remains a paradigm of Cold War espionage, alongside historical precedents like the Rosenbergs’ atomic secrets transmission and John Walker’s naval intelligence deciphering operations.

  • Multiple people hospitalised after semi-trailer crashes into six cars near Wollongong

    Multiple people hospitalised after semi-trailer crashes into six cars near Wollongong

    A severe multi-vehicle accident involving a semi-trailer and six passenger cars occurred on Picton Road at Cataract, approximately 20 kilometers north of Wollongong, at midday on Wednesday. The collision resulted in thirteen individuals sustaining injuries, with four requiring immediate hospital transport for advanced medical treatment.

    Emergency response teams, including NSW Ambulance paramedics, rapidly deployed to the scene to provide critical care. The most seriously injured victim, a man in his 30s, sustained significant pelvic, chest, and arm injuries. Due to the severity of his condition, he was airlifted to Liverpool Hospital where he remains in serious condition.

    Three additional patients were transported via road ambulance to Wollongong Hospital, all reported to be in stable condition. Medical personnel treated the remaining nine injured parties at the scene without requiring immediate hospital admission.

    Transport NSW has implemented a full road closure of Picton Road in both directions between Macarthur Drive and the M1 Princes Motorway (Mount Ousley Road) to facilitate emergency operations and subsequent police investigation. Authorities have advised motorists to seek alternative routes and allow for substantial additional travel time if already in the vicinity.

    The official Live Traffic NSW Twitter account confirmed the ongoing closure, emphasizing that police investigations are expected to continue for an extended period. The incident has significantly disrupted traffic flow along this major transportation corridor connecting Sydney and Wollongong, with commuters urged to monitor real-time traffic updates for the latest developments.

  • Vietnamese caught in Japan’s illegal worker crackdown

    Vietnamese caught in Japan’s illegal worker crackdown

    Japan faces a complex immigration dilemma as it intensifies enforcement against undocumented foreign workers while simultaneously grappling with severe labor shortages exacerbated by its rapidly aging population and record-low birth rates. The situation particularly affects Vietnamese nationals, who constitute nearly half of Japan’s 450,000 technical interns and represent the largest segment of the country’s 2.3-million foreign workforce.

    The Technical Intern Training Program (TITP), originally designed to transfer skills to workers from developing nations, has drawn criticism for creating vulnerable labor conditions that sometimes lead to visa overstays. Many participants arrive burdened by substantial recruitment debts—often exceeding $7,500—compelling some to continue working illegally after their visas expire rather than return to limited opportunities in Vietnam.

    Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has pledged stricter visa management amid growing public resentment toward foreign workers, despite statistics showing non-Japanese commit only 5.5% of penal code offenses. Vietnamese nationals accounted for over 30% of foreign arrests in 2024 (excluding permanent residents), primarily for theft-related crimes—a figure partially explained by their dramatically increased presence, which has grown ninefold over the past decade.

    Support organizations reveal that challenging working conditions, including substandard housing, low wages, and occasional sexual harassment, drive approximately 6,500 trainees annually to abandon their designated workplaces. Some enter underground employment networks through Facebook communities known as ‘Bodoi’ (vernacular for ‘soldiers’), while others risk involvement in illicit activities.

    Japan plans to replace TITP with a new system in 2027 featuring enhanced job flexibility but stricter language requirements. However, experts note Japan’s attractiveness is diminishing due to the yen’s weakness reducing remittance value and increasing competition from South Korea’s labor market. Associate Professor Jotaro Kato of Meiji Gakuin University observes that the program now attracts Vietnamese applicants ‘with less motivation and educational qualifications than before.’

    Despite challenges, community advocates emphasize that technical interns make significant contributions to Japanese society. Vietnamese nun Thich Tam Tri, who operates a shelter north of Tokyo, acknowledges that while some workers make poor choices, ‘one bad headline can easily prejudice Japanese people against them,’ referencing a recent murder case involving a Vietnamese trainee that has intensified negative perceptions.

  • NSW Labor MP Anthony D’Adam accuses Israel of sureviling Australians, ‘foreign interference’

    NSW Labor MP Anthony D’Adam accuses Israel of sureviling Australians, ‘foreign interference’

    A New South Wales Labor parliamentarian has formally accused the Israeli government of potentially engaging in foreign interference activities on Australian soil. Anthony D’Adam, a member of the NSW Legislative Council, raised these concerns after discovering his inclusion in a controversial dossier compiled by Israel’s Ministry of Diaspora Affairs in September.

    The document, which purports to track ‘anti-Semitism and anti-Zionism’ within Australia, identified D’Adam as ‘an advocate of Palestinian rights’ within the Labor Party and referenced his parliamentary statements characterizing Israel’s war for independence as containing ‘acts of terrorism.’ In a January 5 correspondence to Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke, D’Adam urged an official investigation into whether the dossier’s creation and distribution might constitute foreign interference under Australian law.

    The situation has created diplomatic ripples as Israeli Minister for Diaspora Affairs Amichai Chikli has maintained an active presence in Australia following the Bondi Beach terror attack. Last week, Chikli sent his own letter to Minister Burke criticizing the Australian government’s response to security matters while offering counter-terrorism training for Australian police forces.

    The controversial dossier designates NSW, Victoria, and Queensland as primary hotspots for alleged anti-Semitic content, with Canberra reporting the highest per capita incidence. It further identifies several pro-Palestine organizations including the Palestine Action Group, BDS Australia, and Students for Palestine USYD as ‘anti-Semitic/anti-Israel generators and influencers.’ Multiple politicians across party lines were named, including Senators Fatima Payman and Mehreen Faruqi, alongside Lidia Thorpe and Adam Bandt.

    D’Adam vehemently denies any anti-Semitic rhetoric, asserting the document deliberately conflates legitimate criticism of Israeli policies with religious prejudice. ‘The dossier does not provide any examples of anti-Semitism or criticism of Jewish people generally based on racial, ethnic, or religious identity,’ he stated in his letter.

    The controversy emerges against a backdrop of internal Labor Party tensions regarding Palestinian solidarity. D’Adam previously claimed he was silenced during party conference debates on Palestine and faced significant backlash after criticizing Premier Chris Minns’ handling of related issues, including the Sydney Harbour Bridge protest. While Minns acknowledged ‘tough debates’ occur within party rooms, he denied allegations of bullying behavior.

    Minister Burke’s office confirmed that correspondence containing allegations of unlawful conduct would be forwarded to appropriate agencies per standard procedure. The Israeli government has yet to provide official comment on these allegations.

  • Reality TV star Brynne Edelsten charged with drug trafficking after police raid

    Reality TV star Brynne Edelsten charged with drug trafficking after police raid

    Melbourne socialite and television personality Brynne Edelsten has secured her release on bail amid serious drug trafficking allegations, with her mother providing a $5,000 guarantee. The 42-year-old former reality star appeared before Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday as authorities proceed with multiple controlled substance charges.

    The case stems from a December 29 police raid on her Fitzroy residence, where investigators allegedly discovered a commercial quantity of methylamphetamine alongside other prohibited substances. Court documents reveal nine separate charges including drug possession, trafficking methylamphetamine, and possession of schedule 4 poisons without authorization.

    According to evidence presented to Magistrate Brett Sonnet, the search uncovered significant quantities of ketamine and 1.4-Butanediol in addition to various anabolic steroids including testosterone, nandrolone phenylpropionate, and trenbolone vials.

    Defense attorney Marco Man facilitated the bail arrangement requiring Edelsten to surrender her passport to authorities and maintain regular reporting obligations at a police station three times weekly while awaiting trial. The American-born celebrity, who gained fame through appearances on ‘Dancing with the Stars’ and ‘SAS Australia’ following her high-profile marriage to late billionaire Geoffrey Edelsten, declined to comment outside the courtroom.

    The case has been adjourned until April for further proceedings, with Edelsten maintaining her right to silence regarding the allegations against her.