ECB apologises for insensitive tweet about Pope Francis

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has issued an apology for a social media post that jokingly suggested Pope Francis 'loves the Ashes,' following his Ash Wednesday message. The ECB's post, which was quickly deleted, came after the Pope, currently hospitalized with double pneumonia, shared a message emphasizing humility and reflection at the start of Lent. An ECB spokesperson described the post as 'ill-judged' and expressed regret for any offense caused. The Pope's health has raised concerns, especially following two episodes of acute respiratory failure that required medical intervention. As he continues to recover, the Vatican confirmed he remains alert and cooperative with his caregivers. This incident has drawn attention amid ongoing scrutiny of social media behavior in sports.