DUBAI: The International Cricket Council (ICC) has responded after reports emerged that Pakistan may decide not to play against India during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. In an official statement, the ICC said it has taken notice of the message reportedly issued by the Government of Pakistan regarding Pakistan team’s participation in the tournament. The ICC stated that it is now waiting for a formal decision from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). However, the ICC stressed that such a stance does not align with the basic concept of a global sports event, where all qualified teams are expected…
Author: Web Desk2
SINGAPORE: Gold prices witnessed a sharp fall in the international market on Tuesday, marking one of the biggest declines in recent history. According to market reports, the price of gold dropped by nearly 10% per ounce during trading. Gold fell by around $458 per ounce, bringing it down to nearly $4,435 per ounce. Analysts also noted that in just a few days, gold has become cheaper by almost $1,000 per ounce, raising concerns among investors and traders. Meanwhile, global oil prices also recorded a major decline of up to 4% in international trading. Reports said Brent crude was trading near…
SYDNEY – February 2, 2026: Australia has announced fully funded master’s scholarships for Pakistani students under the Australia Awards program, offering opportunities to study at recognized Australian universities. The scholarships cover complete financial support and are aimed at students who want to pursue postgraduate education and contribute to Pakistan’s development. According to Australian authorities, candidates will be selected on the basis of academic merit, professional experience, leadership ability, and their potential role in national progress. Applications from women, persons with disabilities, and underrepresented groups will be prioritized. Priority study areas Preference will be given to applicants pursuing subjects linked to:…
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi held their first formal meeting in Islamabad, where they discussed key federal and provincial matters. The meeting took place at the Prime Minister House. The two leaders first met one-on-one and later held talks at the delegation level. According to official details, discussions focused on coordination between the federation and the province, along with administrative and development issues. Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and KP Finance Adviser Muzammil Aslam were also present during the delegation-level talks. During the meeting, CM Afridi briefed the prime minister on provincial challenges and ongoing…
Pakistan spinner Usman Tariq has come under renewed attention following the T20 match against Australia, after questions were raised about his bowling action during the ongoing series. According to sources, the issue played a role in Tariq being left out of the third T20I. The Pakistan team management has not issued an official statement on the matter so far. In the second T20I, Tariq delivered an impressive spell and picked up two key wickets, including Cameron Green. After his dismissal, Green appeared to question Tariq’s bowling action on the field, an incident that quickly became a talking point. Soon after,…
Washington: The United States has announced the issuance of nearly 65,000 additional H-2B temporary work visas until September 30, offering fresh opportunities for people seeking employment in the US. According to an international news agency, these visas will be made available to American companies facing severe labour shortages, which are causing significant financial losses. Reports say the decision will substantially increase the number of seasonal H-2B guest worker visas, nearly doubling the annual quota. The move is expected to benefit key sectors such as construction, hospitality, landscaping, and seafood processing, where employers are struggling to find enough workers. Companies involved…
Bengaluru: A leading Indian real estate businessman was found dead on Wednesday during an income tax raid at his office in Bengaluru, in an incident that authorities say is being treated as an alleged suicide. The deceased has been identified as CJ Roy, chairman of the Confident Group, a major real estate firm. The 57-year-old businessman allegedly shot himself inside his office while income tax officials were present, Indian media reported. Following the incident, police and investigation agencies cordoned off the office premises and began collecting forensic and documentary evidence. According to Indian media, Bengaluru Police Commissioner confirmed that the…
Tehran: A powerful explosion struck a residential building in the Iranian port city of Bandar Abbas on Saturday, causing extensive structural damage and affecting nearby vehicles and shops, according to media reports. News agencies said the blast occurred in an eight-storey building located in the Moallem Boulevard area of the Gulf coastal city. As a result of the explosion, two floors of the building collapsed, while several parked vehicles and adjacent commercial shops were also damaged. The cause of the explosion has not yet been determined, officials said. Iranian state media reported that rescue, emergency, and firefighting teams rushed to…
Lahore: Pakistan secured a historic T20 series victory over Australia after seven years, defeating the visitors by 90 runs in the second T20 International at Lahore on Saturday. Chasing a target of 199 runs, the Australian team was bowled out for 108 in 15.4 overs, failing to cope with Pakistan’s disciplined bowling attack. For Australia, Cameron Green top-scored with 35 runs, while Matthew Short made 27. Captain Mitchell Marsh scored 18, while Travis Head was dismissed for just four runs, bowled by Saim Ayub. Josh Inglis managed five runs before returning to the pavilion. Pakistan’s bowlers delivered an impressive performance,…
Islamabad: President of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Barrister Sultan Mahmood, passed away on Saturday after a prolonged illness, family sources confirmed. He was 71 years old. The news of his death has triggered deep grief across Azad Kashmir, Pakistan, and among Kashmiris worldwide, with political leaders and citizens paying tribute to his lifelong services. According to family members, Barrister Sultan Mahmood was under medical treatment in Islamabad. His funeral prayers will be offered on Sunday at 3pm in his ancestral hometown Chechian, Mirpur, after which he will be laid to rest. Barrister Sultan Mahmood Chaudhry was regarded as a strong…
