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Islamabad United beat Karachi Kings by 8 wickets

Islamabad United

KARACHI: In the Pakistan Super League Season 11, Islamabad United secured a convincing eight-wicket victory over Karachi Kings to move up to second place on the points table.

After winning the toss, Islamabad United opted to field first, inviting Karachi Kings to bat. Karachi posted a total of 150 for 6 in their allotted 20 overs, with Rassie van der Dussen scoring 51, Jason Roy contributing 39, and Azam Khan adding 34 runs.

In reply, Islamabad United chased down the 151-run target comfortably in just 16 overs, losing only two wickets. Sameer Minhas led the charge with 58 runs, while Devon Conway remained unbeaten on 53. Captain Shadab Khan also played a steady unbeaten innings of 31 runs.

With this win, Islamabad United moved to second place with nine points, strengthening their position in the tournament.

Meanwhile, Peshawar Zalmi continue to lead the table with 13 points, while Karachi Kings remain in fifth position with six points after the defeat.

Trump signals possible Pakistan visit amid progress in US–Iran talks

Trump signals

WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump has hinted at a possible visit to Pakistan, stating that he may travel to Islamabad if a deal with Iran is successfully finalized.

Speaking to the media, Trump praised Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir for their “excellent role” in the ongoing negotiations, highlighting Pakistan’s constructive and effective contribution in facilitating dialogue with Iran.

He said that significant progress is being made in talks between the United States and Iran, with both sides moving closer to an agreement.

However, he reiterated that Iran will not be allowed to acquire nuclear weapons, while noting that Tehran is showing flexibility on the issue.

Trump added that a second round of negotiations with Iran is expected next week, which could mark a major step toward regional stability if successful.

He cautioned that failure to reach an agreement could lead to renewed tensions.

The US President also revealed that a 10-day ceasefire has been agreed upon between Israel and Lebanon, including involvement from Hezbollah, and is set to take effect later tonight.

He further claimed credit for facilitating multiple ceasefires globally, expressing optimism that a deal with Iran would represent a major diplomatic success, while warning that the risk of conflict remains if talks collapse.

Pakistan praised for mediation efforts as Iran–US talks expected to continue in Islamabad

Pakistan praised

Washington: White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt has commended Pakistan’s “serious and constructive” efforts in facilitating a potential ceasefire framework between Iran and the United States, signaling Islamabad’s growing diplomatic role in the ongoing negotiations.

Addressing a press briefing, Leavitt stated that talks between Iran and the U.S. remain “productive and ongoing.” She emphasized that both Washington and Tehran appreciate Pakistan’s professional mediation, adding that the next phase of negotiations is likely to take place in Islamabad. According to her, Pakistan is currently serving as the sole intermediary in the dialogue process.

The White House spokesperson dismissed reports suggesting that the United States had requested an extension of the ceasefire, calling such claims “incorrect.”

Leavitt also revealed that a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz has been fully enforced, targeting vessels departing from Iranian ports regardless of destination.

On the geopolitical front, she noted that Xi Jinping assured Donald Trump that China is not supplying weapons to Iran.

Meanwhile, sources indicate that the second round of Iran–U.S. negotiations is tentatively expected to be held in Islamabad by the end of next week, though Iranian officials have stated that no final date has been confirmed.

Preparations are reportedly underway, with Pakistani administrative and security institutions instructed to make necessary arrangements for the high-level talks.

According to sources, the U.S. delegation may include Vice President JD Vance, Steve Witkoff, and Jared Kushner. The Iranian side is expected to be represented by Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.

It is worth noting that the first round of negotiations between the two sides took place in Islamabad on April 11, lasting nearly 21 hours but concluding without a formal agreement.

In a recent interview, Vice President Vance described the discussions as “positive,” stating that U.S. proposals had been presented and that the next move now rests with Iran.

Peshawar Zalmi cruise to 8-wicket victory over Quetta Gladiators in PSL 11

Peshawar Zalmi

Karachi — Peshawar Zalmi registered a comfortable eight-wicket win against Quetta Gladiators in Match 11 of the Pakistan Super League, securing their sixth victory of the tournament.

After winning the toss, Zalmi opted to field first, inviting Quetta to bat. The Gladiators struggled to build momentum and were bowled out for 154 runs in 20 overs. Hassan Nawaz top-scored with 37, while Rilee Rossouw contributed 26. Khawaja Nafay added 20, and captain Saud Shakeel chipped in with 16 runs.

For Zalmi, Sufiyan Muqeem and Mohammad Basit were the standout bowlers, claiming three wickets each to restrict Quetta to a modest total.

In response, Zalmi chased down the 155-run target with ease, reaching it with nine balls to spare. Captain Babar Azam led from the front with an unbeaten 71. Mohammad Haris scored 35, while Kusal Mendis and Aaron Hardie added 21 and 18 runs respectively.

With this victory, Peshawar Zalmi remain unbeaten in the tournament, sitting at the top of the points table with 13 points from seven matches, including one no-result due to rain. Meanwhile, Quetta Gladiators languish in fifth place, managing just two wins so far in the competition.

China passes legislation authorizing response to foreign economic actions

China passes

Beijing: Chinese Premier Li Qiang has signed a new law aimed at strengthening the country’s sovereignty, national security, and economic interests, according to state media reports.

The legislation, which consists of 20 provisions, has come into immediate effect.

Under the new law, China will take retaliatory measures against any country or entity that takes actions targeting its economic interests, citizens, or institutions.

The law is designed to formalize countermeasures in response to perceived external pressure.

It also provides for the creation of a list identifying foreign individuals and organizations involved in actions deemed harmful to China.

The Chinese government will be authorized to implement countermeasures against those included in the list.

Officials say the law is intended to protect national interests and ensure a structured response to external economic and political challenges.

PCB imposes two-year PSL ban on Blessing Muzarabani

PCB imposes

KARACHI:  The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has imposed a two-year ban on Zimbabwe fast bowler Blessing Muzarabani for withdrawing from the Pakistan Super League (PSL).

According to the PCB, Muzarabani violated his contractual agreement after signing with the PSL but later opted to participate in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

The board emphasized that professional cricket is built on trust and the sanctity of contracts. It added that franchise leagues require players and agents to maintain transparency, consistency, and professional conduct.

The PCB further stated that the ban is a necessary step to protect the integrity and professional standards of the PSL, underscoring the importance of honoring agreements and upholding the reputation of the tournament.

Trump hints at Pakistan as venue for next US-Iran talks within two days

Trump hints

Washington: U.S. President Donald Trump has indicated that the next round of negotiations with Iran could take place in Pakistan within the next two days.

Speaking to a U.S. newspaper, Trump said Washington is increasingly inclined to choose Pakistan as the venue for the upcoming talks, adding that developments could unfold shortly.

He remarked that the likelihood of Pakistan hosting the dialogue is higher, praising the role of the country’s military leadership. Referring to Asim Munir, Trump described him as “outstanding” and credited his performance as a key reason behind the U.S. considering Pakistan again for diplomatic engagement.

Trump also recalled his contact with the Field Marshal during last year’s heightened tensions between Pakistan and India, noting that the situation de-escalated within four days through a peace understanding in which the United States played a role.

In response to a question, Trump said U.S. media should remain present in Pakistan, as “anything could happen” in the next couple of days.

According to the report, Trump had initially denied that a U.S. delegation was heading to Pakistan for talks but later called back to suggest that Pakistan could host the next round of negotiations.

Tennis Legend Björn Borg to visit Pakistan next month

Tennis Legend Björn

ISLAMABAD: Swedish tennis great Björn Borg is set to visit Pakistan next month on a week-long tour, marking a significant moment for the country’s tennis scene.

The former world No. 1 will arrive on May 4 to attend the ITF Futures Series being held in Islamabad.

Borg, one of the most iconic players of the 1970s, won six French Open titles and five Wimbledon championships during his illustrious career, along with a total of 66 titles.

His son, Leo Borg, is also expected to participate in the Islamabad tournament.

During his visit, Borg may feature in an exhibition match with Pakistan’s tennis star Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi, adding further excitement to the event.

250 feared missing after boat carrying Rohingya refugees capsizes

250 feared missing

Around 250 people are feared missing after a boat carrying Rohingya refugees and Bangladeshi nationals capsized in the Andaman Sea, according to a joint statement by United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees and International Organization for Migration.

The agencies said the overcrowded trawler, carrying men, women and children, reportedly sank due to strong winds and rough sea conditions. The vessel had departed from Teknaf in southern Bangladesh and was heading toward Malaysia.

Describing the incident as a tragedy, the UN agencies said it underscores the severe human cost of prolonged displacement and the lack of lasting solutions for the Rohingya population.

For years, members of the Rohingya Muslim minority from Myanmar have undertaken perilous sea journeys in fragile boats to reach countries such as Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand, seeking refuge from persecution and dire conditions in overcrowded camps in Bangladesh.

The agencies urged the international community to increase funding for life-saving assistance for Rohingya refugees and extend support to host communities in Bangladesh.

The crisis dates back to 2017, when Myanmar’s military launched a large-scale crackdown that forced more than 730,000 Rohingya to flee into Bangladesh.

Survivors reported widespread atrocities, including killings, sexual violence and arson. A UN fact-finding mission later concluded that the military operation involved “genocidal acts,” a claim denied by Myanmar’s authorities.

Global energy shift as uncertainty deepens over Hormuz Strait closure

Global energy shift

Global energy markets are facing heightened uncertainty following reports regarding the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and the ongoing blockade of Iranian ports announced by the Donald Trump administration, raising concerns over the restoration of global oil and gas flows.

The Strait of Hormuz, through which nearly one-fifth of the world’s oil trade typically passes estimated at around 20 million barrels per day had reportedly seen severe disruption following recent regional tensions and military escalations involving the United States and Iran. Supply flows were said to have been significantly affected, triggering volatility in global energy markets.

As a result, international oil and gas prices surged sharply, with particularly severe impacts felt across Asia and developing economies that rely heavily on energy imports and have limited capacity to absorb global price shocks.

Energy experts say the prolonged disruption could have lasting consequences for the global energy landscape, potentially reshaping long-term supply chains and energy security priorities.

According to industry analysis platforms such as OilPrice.com, the current uncertainty is accelerating a global shift toward alternative energy sources. Energy security and price stability are now being prioritized alongside environmental goals.

Experts further note that clean energy is increasingly being viewed not just as an environmental necessity but as a geopolitical and economic imperative.

The focus has shifted from climate concerns alone to issues of stability, affordability, and national energy independence.

China has emerged as a major beneficiary of this transition, with exports from renewable energy companies reportedly rising by 57%. As a dominant player in solar panels, wind turbines, batteries, and electric vehicles, China is strengthening its position in global clean energy supply chains, particularly in markets affected by disruptions in traditional energy routes.

Analysts predict a further rise in demand for wind and solar energy in the coming years, as countries seek to reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels and improve resilience against future supply shocks. As one expert noted, renewable sources like wind and solar cannot be blocked or restricted, making them a more secure and strategically stable energy option for the future.