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World News / International

Shoaib Malik suggests major reforms to revive Pakistan Test cricket

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Shoaib Malik

KARACHI: Former Pakistan captain Shoaib Malik has proposed key reforms to improve the standard of Test cricket in Pakistan, calling for a stronger domestic red-ball structure and better financial incentives for specialist players.

Reacting to Pakistan’s recent struggles in the longer format, Shoaib Malik emphasized the need to prioritize red-ball specialists and strengthen central contracts to support them financially.

The former all-rounder, who has represented Pakistan in 287 ODIs, 35 Tests and 124 T20 Internationals, shared his views on social media platform X, stressing that better financial security would encourage players to stay committed to first-class cricket instead of shifting focus to franchise leagues.

Malik said that dedicated and attractive red-ball contracts should be introduced to retain players in the longer format of the game. He also suggested that cricketers should be required to play at least five first-class matches each season.

He added that such reforms would help players maintain their natural red-ball skills and avoid unnecessary pressure to alter their playing style for franchise cricket.

The former captain further highlighted the gap between domestic and international cricket standards, saying that success at the highest level requires complete preparation and commitment.

Malik’s comments come after Pakistan, led by Shan Masood, suffered a 2-0 Test series whitewash against Bangladesh national cricket team.

Trump hints at positive outcome in Iran negotiations

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Trump hints

WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump has said that a proposed agreement with Iran has not yet been finalized, but expressed confidence that positive news will emerge, stating that he does not make “bad deals.”

In an interview with ABC News, Trump said the potential deal with Iran would be “completely different” from the agreement reached during former President Barack Obama’s administration.

He said that no one has seen the details of the agreement yet and urged the public not to rely on criticism from those who are not fully informed.

The US president added that previous leadership should have resolved the issue years ago, noting that ongoing negotiations are being conducted in an organized and constructive manner, with the outcome depending on Iran’s decisions.

Trump emphasized that any final agreement must serve U.S. interests and contribute to regional stability.

According to reports, he also shared an image on social media showing a missile mounted under a military aircraft, which drew attention amid ongoing tensions and negotiations with Iran.

Field Marshal helped push ceasefire talks toward final phase, says US TV report

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Field Marshal

WASHINGTON/ISLAMABAD: A report by CBS News has claimed that Pakistan’s military and political leadership played a significant mediating role in efforts to advance talks between the United States and Iran.

According to the report, Pakistan’s Chief of Defence Forces and Army Chief Syed Asim Munir has gained the trust of both U.S. and Iranian leadership and contributed to moving negotiations closer to a final stage.

The report stated that General Asim Munir’s recent visit to Tehran added momentum to ongoing diplomatic efforts, helping bridge gaps in the proposed agreement process.

CBS News further claimed that amid the complex regional situation involving Gulf states and Lebanon, Pakistan emerged as a key country capable of helping shape and finalize a draft framework for a potential agreement.

It added that the draft was shared with both Iranian and American leadership for review following Asim Munir’s return from Tehran.

The report also highlighted what it described as strong coordination between Pakistan’s civilian and military leadership as a crucial factor in the mediation efforts.

CBS News noted that U.S. President Donald Trump had previously referred to General Asim Munir as his “favorite field marshal,” underscoring his perceived influence in diplomatic channels.

The report further said that discussions held in Islamabad reportedly helped reduce tensions and supported progress in the negotiations.

It also recalled Pakistan’s historical role in facilitating major diplomatic breakthroughs, including efforts that contributed to the normalization of relations between the United States and China in earlier decades.

Lionel Messi injury scare raises concerns among football fans

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Lionel Messi

Football fans were left concerned after reports emerged of a possible injury to Argentine star Lionel Messi during an American league match.

According to details, Messi, representing Inter Miami CF, appeared to feel discomfort during the game and requested to be substituted before leaving the field.

The incident occurred during Inter Miami’s match against Philadelphia Union, where a rain-soaked pitch created difficult playing conditions for the athletes.

In the 73rd minute, Messi was seen holding the back of his left leg before being called off the field. However, he was observed walking normally toward the dugout, easing fears of a serious injury.

Speaking after the match, the team coach said the issue did not initially appear severe and that Messi was substituted as a precautionary measure.

The coach added that the poor ground conditions and a congested playing schedule had left the 38-year-old fatigued, prompting the decision to rest him and avoid any further risk.

Messi has not yet officially confirmed whether he will play in the next FIFA World Cup, although expectations remain high that he will represent defending champions Argentina in what could be the sixth World Cup appearance of his career.

FIFA World Cup 2026 to introduce major rule changes

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FIFA World Cup

NEW YORK: FIFA is set to introduce several major rule changes at the FIFA World Cup 2026 in North America, including mandatory hydration breaks, expanded VAR reviews and stricter measures against time-wasting and player misconduct.

The new regulations continue FIFA’s trend of modernizing football rules after the introduction of yellow and red cards in 1970, VAR at the 2018 World Cup and extended stoppage time during the 2022 Qatar tournament.

Under the updated rules, every match will include mandatory three-minute hydration breaks midway through each half, regardless of weather conditions or whether stadium roofs are closed.

FIFA said the decision was made to support player welfare and ensure equal playing conditions across all matches.

The tournament will also see the expansion of the Video Assistant Referee system. VAR will now be allowed to review second yellow-card dismissals and incorrectly awarded corner kicks, provided reviews can be completed quickly without delaying play.

The International Football Association Board said the changes are intended to improve decision-making accuracy during matches.

Countdown timers will also be introduced for goal-kicks, throw-ins and substitutions in an effort to reduce time-wasting. Teams could lose possession if restarts are delayed beyond the allowed time.

Goalkeepers already face an eight-second limit for holding the ball, with violations resulting in a corner kick for the opposing team.

Under another new rule, substituted players will have 10 seconds to leave the field after their number is displayed. If they fail to exit in time, their replacement will not be allowed to enter until the next stoppage in play.

FIFA has also announced stricter disciplinary measures for player conduct. Players who cover their mouths during confrontational situations with opponents may face red cards, while teams whose players walk off the field in protest risk forfeiting matches.

The changes come ahead of what is expected to be the largest FIFA World Cup in history, jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Zohran Mamdani introduces discount ticket scheme for FIFA World Cup

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Zohran Mamdani

NEW YORK: Following strong public criticism over FIFA World Cup ticket prices, New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has introduced a limited affordable ticket scheme for local residents.

Under the new initiative, tickets will be available for $50, aimed at making the tournament more accessible to city residents.

According to international media reports, around 1,000 tickets have been allocated for New York residents for selected group-stage and knockout matches. However, the final match is not included in the scheme.

Officials said the tickets will be distributed through a lottery system to ensure transparency.

Reports indicate that approximately 150 seats per match will be reserved under the program, and successful applicants will be allowed to purchase a maximum of two tickets each. The package will also include transport facilities to and from match venues.

The mayor said the initiative aims to connect local residents with the FIFA World Cup and reduce exclusion caused by high ticket prices, stressing that major sporting events should not be limited only to wealthy spectators.

The announcement comes amid ongoing criticism of FIFA’s dynamic pricing system, with various groups calling for lower prices and greater access for local fans.

UAE official calls Iran’s nuclear program top regional threat

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UAE official

ABU DHABI: Senior diplomatic adviser to the United Arab Emirates President Anwar Gargash has said that Iran’s nuclear program is now the region’s most pressing concern, according to international media reports.

Gargash warned that any further escalation between the United States and Iran could significantly complicate the regional security situation.

He said that any changes in the strategic importance or stability of the Strait of Hormuz would have serious consequences not only for the region but also for Europe, urging European countries to view the waterway as a critical energy and trade corridor.

The UAE adviser stressed the importance of pursuing a diplomatic solution, but cautioned that such efforts should not come at the cost of creating further future instability.

He said Iran’s nuclear program had shifted from being a secondary concern to the top priority issue, adding that Iran has the capability to use all available means in its strategic arsenal.

Gargash also noted that relations with the United States have become the backbone of Gulf national defence systems, with Washington playing an increasingly central role in regional security calculations.

In a separate remark, he said the UAE had been considering a possible withdrawal from OPEC over the past three years.

Trump Jr wedding attendance by Trump Jruncertain

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Trump Jr wedding

WASHINGTON: Attendance by US President Donald Trump at his son Donald Trump Jr.’s wedding remains uncertain, according to American media reports.

The wedding is expected to take place this week on a small island in the Bahamas and will be attended only by close family members and a few friends.

Sources said President Trump is not expected to attend the ceremony.

Speaking to reporters at the Oval Office, President Trump said his son wanted him to be present at the wedding, but current circumstances may prevent his attendance.

He added that his focus is currently on major national and international issues, including Iran, making it difficult for him to participate in the private family event.

PCB announces16-member ODI squad for Australia series

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PCB announces

KARACHI: The Pakistan Cricket Board has announced a 16-member squad for the upcoming three-match One-Day International series against Australia national cricket team, with fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi appointed as captain.

According to the PCB, the series will be played from May 30 to June 4 in Rawalpindi and Lahore.

Key players including Babar Azam, Naseem Shah, Shadab Khan and Sufiyan Muqeem have been recalled to the national side.

New inclusions in the squad include Ahmad Daniyal, Arafat Minhas and Rohail Nazir, while Muhammad Ghazi Ghori and Rohail Nazir have been named as wicketkeeper-batters.

The selection committee has dropped several players, including Faheem Ashraf, Faisal Akram, Hussain Talat, Muhammad Rizwan, Wasim Jr and Saad Masood from the ODI setup.

Fakhar Zaman and Saim Ayub were not considered due to injuries and are currently undergoing rehabilitation programs, while Usman Khan was ruled out due to illness.

The final squad features a mix of experienced and young players as Pakistan prepares for the high-profile ODI series against Australia.

Iran warns of unused advanced weapons amid rising tensions with US

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Iran warns

TEHRAN: Iran has issued a strong warning following threats of possible military action from the United States, claiming it possesses advanced weapons that have not yet been used on the battlefield.

According to a Russian news agency report, an Iranian military source said the country has locally developed sophisticated defensive and offensive weapon systems that have neither been deployed nor tested in combat situations so far.

The source warned that Iran would not show restraint if the United States launches another attack, adding that Tehran is fully prepared for any potential escalation.

Iranian officials also reportedly stated that the country faces no shortage of military equipment or defense capabilities and remains fully capable of defending itself against external threats.

The statement comes after US President Donald Trump recently renewed threats of military action against Iran, saying Washington could take strong measures if negotiations fail.

Meanwhile, American and Western officials have continued to express concern over Iran’s missile capabilities and broader military program, while Iran insists its defense activities are solely intended to safeguard national security.

Analysts warn that growing tensions between Iran and the United States could trigger a fresh crisis in the Middle East, particularly raising global concerns over the security of the Strait of Hormuz and the wider Gulf region.