From the Editors: A nature reserve that is the UAE’s pride

A NATURE RESERVE THAT IS THE UAE'S PRIDE: The recently concluded Sir Bu Nair Festival at Sir Bu Nair Island off the Sharjah coast was certainly a highlight in the UAE’s celebration of its rich environment. Declared a nature reserve by a government decree, the island is a key breeding ground for the endangered hawksbill turtle and is home to the sooty seagulls (Abu Sannin) and other terns that build thousands of nests in its red soil. Most important, it also demonstrates the deep bond that Emiratis share with environment and heritage. (COMMENT BY: Sharmila Dhal, UAE Editor)

BRITNEY SPEARS' HAPPILY EVER AFTER: If there’s anyone who deserves her happy ending then its Britney Spears who has climbed many a proverbial mountain to be united with her prince in holy matrimony. The ‘Slave For You Singer’ tied the knot with her beau Sam Asghari over the weekend. Sharing the joy on her big day was a star-studded guestlist that included Madonna, Selena Gomez, Drew Barrymore, Paris Hilton and designer Donatella Versace. Spears, who finally tasted freedom from her 13-year conservatorship last November - which she claimed barred her from having children or marrying someone - is finally living the life she had dreamed of. For her legion of fans who fought bravely for the singer to have her day in court, Spears’ happiness is the ultimate victory dance. (COMMENT BY: Bindu Rai, Entertainment Editor)

ENGLAND ARE TOO RELIANT ON HARRY KANE: England missed the chance of gaining revenge against Italy last night in the UEFA Nations League as the clash ended in a goalless draw. The Italians beat Gareth Southgate’s men in the Euro 2020 final and this was seen an opportunity for payback. Harry Kane was rested and in came Tammy Abraham but he failed to deliver. Mason Mount hit the crossbar and Raheem Sterling missed from close range but it appears when Kane does not feature England look shot shy. Worryingly, this was the third successive match in which England have failed to score from open play. They seem to be too reliant on the Tottenham striker – who has 50 goals for his country while the rest of the squad have 49 between them – and this is a cause for concern. If teams are able to nullify his threat, then where do the goals come from? The rest of the team must start chipping in and contributing otherwise England could be heading home early from the Qatar World Cup. (COMMENT BY: Imran Malik, Assistant Sports Editor)