Monday, January 19, 2026
Home Blog Page 1552

ICC introduces certain changes in saliva, pitches rules

By
admin
-

ISLAMABAD, Sep 20 (DNA): The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday announced certain changes in its playing conditions especially relating to the hybrid pitches and saliva being used to shine the ball.

 The international cricketing body has allowed use of hybrid pitches for all Men’s and Women’s ODI and T20I matches and banned use of saliva permanently.

 The Chief Executives’ Committee (CEC) ratified recommendations from Sourav Ganguly-led Men’s Cricket Committee, which discussed MCC’s updated 3rd Edition of the 2017 Code of the Laws of Cricket and shared its conclusions with Women’s Cricket Committee,which endorsed the recommendations to CEC, said a press release.

The Playing Conditions that come into effect on October 1, allow the use of hybrid pitches for all Men’s and Women’s ODI and T20I, if agreed by both teams. Currently, hybrid pitches can only be used in Women’s T20I matches.

Meanwhile, the other changes to the Playing Conditions that come into effect include- Batters returning when caught: When a batter is out Caught, the new batter will come in at the end the striker was, regardless of whether the batters crossed prior to the catch being taken.

Use of saliva to polish the ball: This prohibition has been in place for over two years in international cricket as a COVID-related temporary measure and it is considered appropriate for the ban to be made permanent.

Incoming batter ready to face the ball: An incoming batter would now be required to be ready to take strike within two minutes in Tests and ODIs, while the current threshold of ninety seconds in T20Is remains unchanged.

Striker’s right to play the ball: This was restricted so as to require some part of their bat or person to remain within the pitch. Should they venture beyond that, the umpire will call and signal Dead ball. Any ball which would force the batter to leave the pitch will also be called No ball.

Unfair movement by the fielding side: Any unfair and deliberate movement while the bowler was running in to bowl could now result in the umpire awarding five penalty runs to the batting side, in addition to a call of Dead ball.

Running out of the non-striker: The Playing Conditions follow the Laws in moving this method of affecting a Run out from the ‘Unfair Play’ section to the ‘Run out’ section.

Bowler throwing towards striker’s end before delivery: Previously, a bowler who saw the batter advancing down the wicket before entering their delivery stride, could throw the ball to attempt to Run out the striker. This practice will now be called a Dead ball.

Other major decisions shows the in-match penalty introduced in T20Is in January 2022, (whereby the failure of a fielding team to bowl their overs by the scheduled cessation time leads to an additional fielder having to be brought inside the fielding circle for the remaining overs of the innings), would now also be adopted in ODI matches after the completion of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Super League in 2023.

Nepotism and corruption seen restraining country’s progress

By
admin
-

DNA

Islamabad, Sep 20: Pakistan is faced with a crisis of governance at all levels, lack of national consensus on critical issues, and non-adherence to national objectives in policy formulation and implementation, according to senior academics and seasoned practitioners.

The experts were speaking at the annual meeting of the National Academic Council (NAC) of Institute of Policy Studies (IPS), Islamabad. The yearly gathering is aimed at delivering intellectual input from a cross-section of veteran scholars and practitioners to IPS’ research activities.

Presided over by IPS’ Chairman Khalid Rahman, the meeting was addressed by Dr. Syed Junaid Zaidi, former rector COMSATS; Ambassador (r) Shamshad A. Khan, former secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Syed Abu Ahmad Akif, former federal cabinet secretary; Dr. Syed Tahir Hijazi, former vice-chancellor, Muslim Youth University; Dr. Waqar Masood Khan, former federal secretary, finance; Dr. Anwar-ul-Hasan Gilani, former vice chancellor, University of Haripur; Mirza Hamid Hasan, former federal secretary, water and power; Ambassador (r) Syed Abrar Hussain, vice chairman IPS; Dr. Abdul Rauf Rafiqui, director, Abdul Samad Khan Achakzai Shaheed Chair, University of Balochistan; Dr. Adnan Sarwar Khan, former dean of social sciences, University of Peshawar; Dr. Naveed Butt, senior physician at Federal Government Services Hospital; and Dr. Noreen Sahar, associate professor and chairperson, Department of Anthropology, IIUI.

The speakers highlighted matters of national significance that have negatively influenced the development potential of Pakistan and the ins and outs of which need to be unpacked at the intellectual and policy level.

The fundamental of these issues, as endorsed by almost all the speakers, was the severe deficiency of good governance. The government not only lacks the capability to channel opportunities and manage menaces like floods or politico-economic crises, but also lacks the essence of democracy in its institutional decisions and policy thoughts. Hence, the slow national progress.

As pointed out by Shamshad Khan, foreign dependency and wrong decisions are also a cause of bad governance, endangering the sovereignty of the nation in the long run. In addition to these, there is another important factor that is devouring the development perspective of Pakistan, i.e. the corrupt people present at the top-tier level of governance.

Khalid Rahman observed that there is a lot of confusion in the society and nation regarding policy. He pointed out that national efforts towards development and policy discourse are not in the same direction because of many factors. One such factor is resourceful lobbying that challenges the whole framework of policy and policymaking. In addition to this, foreign sponsorships also play a considerable role in buying national talent to fulfill ulterior agendas, which should be confronted by Pakistan through win-win collaborations.

Non-adherence to national objectives in policy formulation and implementation has resulted in the overlapping of the crisis in Pakistan, which is, at the same time, marred by corruption and nepotism, as indicated by Syed Akif.

Noreen Sahar added social networking and nepotism to the main causes that have resulted in blocking national progress. She emphasized the presence of people selected on the basis of skill and merit in top-tier governance positions.

The participants indicated the need to work on emerging challenges and developments like climate change, social issues, educational reforms, and technological innovations.

Although the issue of climate change has manifested itself in recent times in the form of disasters like floods, there is still a lack of national consensus and awareness about it, noted the speakers.

Along with that the country also needs educational reforms and a balanced approach that integrates all lines of education, stated Rauf Rafiqui.

Hamid Hassan added that the national politico-economic crisis and international factors also contribute to challenges. However, this also presents opportunities, which need to be capitalized on with timely and right decisions.

While appreciating IPS’ efforts to promote research on governance, Tahir Hijazi suggested for the institute to interact with the Planning Commission, relevant organizations, and university circles to find solutions to these issues. Adnan Sarwar also pointed out the importance of connecting research work and findings with policymakers to bring about true implementation of national objectives. 

PM Shehbaz leaves for New York to represent Pakistan at 77th session of UNGA

By
admin
-

LONDON: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday departed for New York to represent Pakistan at the 77th session of the United National General Assembly (UNGA), which will be held from September 20 to September 26.

The premier attended the final rites of Queen Elizabeth II in London earlier in the day. He met King Charles III during a reception hosted by the latter for visiting dignitaries.

After attending the funeral, the PM left for New York and is expected to arrive later tonight. He will be received by Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the UN Munir Akram, Pakistan’s Ambassador to Washington Masood Khan and other senior officers at the John G Kennedy International Airport.

A meeting with President of the European Union Council Charles Michel and participation in the Global Food Security Summit to be hosted by the president of Senegal and the African Union will also be on the PM’s agenda.

On September 21, he would meet Managing Director of International Monetary Fund Kristalina Georgieva, President of World Bank David Malpass, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi.

Besides meeting with the UNGA president, the prime minister would also attend a dinner reception to be hosted by US President Joe Biden.

Meetings with Microsoft founder Bill Gates, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, Chinese President Premier Li Keqiang and Japanese PM Fumio Kishida will also be a part of the prime minister’s engagements.

On September 23, the prime minister would address the UNGA session, where his speech will focus on challenges faced by Pakistan in wake of the recent climate-induced catastrophic floods in the country.

Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Hina Rabbani Khar, Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif and Information Minister Maryam Aurangzeb will accompany the prime minister during his trip alongside other senior officials.

This year’s General Assembly is particularly significant because this will be the first in-person summit of world leaders at the United Nations since 2019. The 2020 and 2021 sessions were converted into virtual meetings because of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Pakistan’s Rich Cultural Heritage Exhibited in Belgium

By
admin
-

DNA

Brussels, Sep 19: The Embassy of Pakistan, Brussels joined the much-awaited event on the cultural calendar of Belgium by partnering with Urban Brussels to mark the 2022 edition of the annual Heritage Day.


This year’s Heritage day on September 17 and 18 coincided with the 75th diamond jubilee of Pakistan’s independence in August 2022. 


The Ambassador of Pakistan to Belgium, Luxembourg and the European Union, Dr. Asad Majeed Khan inaugurated the day-long activities at the premises of the Embassy.  The Embassy of Pakistan had lined up an array of cultural displays depicting rich culture and heritage of Pakistan along with traditional Pakistani street food. 


Artifacts, photographs, ornaments, handicrafts, top export products and traditional costumes had been displayed at various stalls, representing rich heritage, cultural diversity, tourism and export potential of the country.


Thousands of Belgian visitors including the younger generation visited the Chancery and took keen interest in various facets of Pakistani culture reflected through interesting and informative documentaries, Books, and cultural displays.
The traditional Pakistani street food stalls at the chancery also attracted many visitors who liked the traditional Pakistani cuisine.


A briefing about the situation resulting from the climate change induced flash floods across the country was also arranged on the occasion. A special video presentation about the devastation caused by the floods and ensuing relief and rescue efforts was also played for the visitors.


Since 1989, the Heritage Days have been one of Belgium’s most keenly anticipated cultural events. This year Urban Brussels invited the diplomatic missions to participate in the  event for the first time. Accordingly, the Pakistan Embassy Brussels participated in the “Heritage Day” to showcase Pakistan’s culture and heritage to visitors from Brussels, Wallonia and Flanders regions of Belgium. 


The visitors deeply appreciated the warmth and hospitality extended by the Embassy officials.

Terror case registered against federal ministers Marriyum Aurangzeb, Javed Latif

By
admin
-

ISLAMABAD: A case has been registered against Federal Information Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb and PML-N central leader Javed Latif in Lahore under the Anti-Terrorism Act, reported Monday.

Punjab Home Minister Hashim Dogar shared on Twitter the FIR filed against the PML-N leaders. He said incitement of sectarian hatred and violence against any citizen, including [PTI Chairman] Imran Khan will not be allowed.

The case has been registered at the Green Town police station by PTI activist Irshad-ur-Rehan.

Apart from Latif and Aurangzeb, the case has also been filed against Pakistan Television (PTV) Managing Director Sohail Khan and Controller Program Rashid Baig under anti-terrorism provisions.

Shehbaz won’t achieve anything from US visit: Imran Khan

By
admin
-

CHAKWAL – Former prime minister and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chairman Imran Khan said on Monday that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif wouldn’t achieve anything from his US visit.

Addressing a rally in Chakwal on Monday, he said that the floods have wreaked havoc in Sindh and Balochistan and flood water devastated the crops, while farmers couldn’t sow crops due to water accumulated in the fields.

Imran Khan said that despite being in government for the past 14 years, the PPP couldn’t complete work on Right Bank Canal on river Sindh, adding that the thieves of Sindh have sent the funds of Right Bank Canal project to Dubai.

Turning his guns towards PM Shehbaz Sharif, the PTI chairman said that insensitivity of Shahbaz Sharif can be witnessed that the one third of the country is swept by the floods and the premier has left for the US.

The former PM went on to say that the economy was flourishing during his tenure when his government was overthrown through conspiracy. “They run a propaganda campaign against my government with the help of their paid media houses that the country’s economy was sinking during my tenure,” he said.

Imran Khan said the power tariff has been increased three-fold since the PML-N-led government came to power earlier this year.

Shabnam Zafar elected Khairpur Chambers new president

By
admin
-

KARACHI, SEP 19 (DNA) — ShabnamZafar(SZ) Penal candidate Ms. Shabnam Zafar has been elected unopposed as new President of Khairpur Chamber of Commerce & Industry for 2022-2023. According to a press statement Monday, Sunny Kirshan Chand has been elected unopposed Senior Vice President and Muhammad NadeemWarsi elected unopposed as Vice President.

The list of successful Shabnam Zafar Group Candidates included names of Shabnam Zafar, Sunny Kirshan Chand, Muhammad NadeemWarsi, Yaar Muhammad Shaikh, Prof. A. Salam Shaikh, MujeebullahMemon, Sajid Aziz Mir, Mrs. Qurat-ul-Ain, Muhammad Bashir Aarain, Masood Ahmed Siddiqui, Muhammad Usman Afzal, Mrs. FarhatManzoom and Noman Afzal. as the Managing Committee members have been elected unopposed.

Shabnam Zafar has expressed gratitude and conveyed thanks and compliments to the business and industrial community of Khairpur for reposing confidence. She vowed to continue support to United Business Group (UBG) in FPCCI.

Shabnam Zafar said government to develop long-term dates export policy for the growth and sustainability of the agro industry.  She said that steps should be taken to resettle the dates industry destroyed by the flood in Khairpur and resettle the flood-affected people.

Shabnam Zafar also demanded investigation in the building of Khairpur Chamber of Commerce fire incident and also demanded land for Khairpur Chambers. =DNA

Anoushey Ashraf pens note of disappointment on flood-induced damage

By
admin
-

LAHORE – The recent floods have caused a whole lot of damage but only those who have visited the sites can begin to understand how deep it really goes. Anoushey Ashraf travelled to Balochistan with RJ Dino Ali and musician Natasha Baig to help out flood affectees and was saddened by the overall situation and neglect. She penned a passionate note, expressing her disappointment and blamed everyone who is okay with the state the country is in at the moment.

On Saturday, she shared a video compilation of her visit and talked about sights that made her heart sink. “Even though the floods have ravaged much of Pakistan, visiting the villages in Balochistan was of particular interest and high on the list of priorities for me. The province has been neglected as it is for way toooooo long. We don’t know much about what it’s really like,” she wrote. “As expected, we were saddened to see broken roads, inundated lands, washed away bridges, etc but more than anything else, I was saddened to see the countless children affected by the negligence of their adults. Collectively, we’ve given them next to nothing for their future. Not even slippers to wear. Today, I just don’t blame the government but I blame myself, I blame you and every Pakistani who’s okay with this.”

She talked about ignorance on the citizens’ part and how they justify the wrongs in society instead of taking action. “Us, the people who’ve learned how to live with crisis everywhere around us like it doesn’t exist. Unchecked population growth, poverty, sickness and bad healthcare is where our focus should be… Yet people turn a blind eye to this and find reasons to explain ‘why this is the way it is’…”

She prodded her followers with questions, claiming that the general public is in deep slumber. “If you can’t help fix it, why run to them for votes? When does your integrity and moral compass come into play? When does an ounce of humanity awaken in you? In me? Indeed we’re the way we are for we are in a deep, deep slumber. While God periodically sends us calamities one after the other for we may wake up. But alas.”

She quoted a poem by Lawrence Tribble that highlighted the power of one person who awakens and influences another and then a lot more with the domino effect. “Thank you Dino Ali Natasha Baig and Hassan Ali Effendi for being the best coworkers. We kept each other afloat. Thaila Sherwani zindabad!!” she concluded.

In the video, Ashraf attached photos and clips that documented their journey of distributing over 2500 ration packs in a village in Wadh. “Back broken but heart mended, a bit,” she wrote. She explained that they had gone there with a company that was distributing relief items and had security provided by the FC Balochistan. She added that though she doesn’t encourage protocol, it helped them deliver the items to the right place without trouble.

RCCI shows grave concern on delay in opening of Letters of Credit (LCs)

By
admin
-

DNA

Rawalpindi: The Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) has shown grave concern over the delay in opening Letters of Credit (LCs) and demanded the Federal Minister Finance Miftah Ismail to intervene and open LCs immediately.

RCCI President Nadeem Rauf has said in a statement that many industries are now facing shortage of raw material and are on the verge of cutting their production. He said that key products especially under HS code 84 and 85 include home appliances, air conditioners, IT products, generators, telecom, steel and automobiles. Importers are worried due to non-opening of LCs.

Factories importing raw material for producing food, medicines and iron are now facing serious supply constraints. “Due to non-release of our import documents and consequent non-availability of raw material, the manufacturing units are on the verge of closure, ” he said.

He said that despite the lifting of the import ban by the government, delay in opening Letters of Credit (LCs) for essential machinery, equipment and spare parts is a matter of grave concern for traders.

Nadeem Rauf said that the current economic situation is very disturbing; SMEs and large-scale industry (LSM) are suffering from slowness.

Production has stopped due to non-availability of parts, bank payments are not being made, operational expenses are also becoming difficult to meet, which has increased the fear of unemployment, he added.

He said that large firms in Pakistan rely on imported raw materials / parts, which run our industries. He appealed to the Finance Minister and Governor State Bank to take immediate notice of the situation and open LCs.

Taliban say US national freed in exchange for key ally

By
admin
-

Kabul, Sept 19: An American navy veteran detained in Afghanistan since 2020 was released by the Taliban on Monday in exchange for an ally who spent 17 years in a US jail for heroin smuggling, Afghanistan’s foreign minister said.

Mark Frerichs was working as a civil engineer on construction projects in Afghanistan when he was “taken hostage”, Washington previously said.

“After long negotiations, US citizen Mark Frerichs was handed over to an American delegation and that delegation handed over (Bashar Noorzai) to us today at Kabul airport,” Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi said at a press conference.

“We are happy that at Kabul International Airport, in the capital of Afghanistan, we witnessed the wonderful ceremony of one of our compatriots returning home.”

Noorzai was welcomed with a hero’s fanfare by the government of the newly-styled Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA). Photos show he was greeted by masked Taliban soldiers bearing floral garlands.

“If the IEA had not shown its strong determination, I would not have been here today,” Noorzai told reporters at the press conference.

“My release in exchange for an American will be a source of peace between Afghanistan and Americans.”

Noorzai is the second Afghan inmate released by the United States in recent months. In June, Assadullah Haroon was released after 15 years of detention in the United States’ notorious Guantanamo Bay prison.

Haroon was accused of links to Al-Qaeda but languished without charge for years at the US detention centre in Cuba, after his arrest in 2006 whilst working as a honey trader.

He was not released under the terms of a deal with the Taliban.

Afghan security analyst Hekmatullah Hekmat said Noorzai’s release was a “major achievement” for Kabul’s new rulers.

 “The Taliban can tell their foot soldiers and Afghans that they are able to bring back their people held by opposition groups,” he told.

 Muttaqi said the homecoming of Noorzai marks the beginning of a “new chapter” in relations between Afghanistan and the United States.

1...1,5511,5521,553...3,819Page 1,552 of 3,819

Stay Connected

64FansLike
60FollowersFollow

Latest Reviews

Exchange Rates

USD - United States Dollar
EUR
1.17
GBP
1.35
AUD
0.67
CAD
0.72

EDITOR PICKS

POPULAR POSTS

POPULAR CATEGORY

© Centreline Magazine