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World News / International

 Bangladesh’s star bowler Mustafizur Rahman registers for PSL 11

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 Bangladesh’s star bowler

DHAKA: Bangladesh’s star fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman has officially registered for the 11th edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL), as the process for overseas players continues.

According to sources, foreign cricketers can complete their registration for PSL 11 until January 20, with growing interest from international players ahead of the upcoming season.

Mustafizur Rahman’s registration comes shortly after his release from the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, a decision that, according to reports, was taken amid pressure from extremist Hindu groups. Indian media has also claimed that the decision to drop Mustafizur from the IPL was made at a higher level, sparking debate across the cricketing world.

Following this development, Bangladesh Cricket has reportedly decided not to send its team to India for the ICC T20 World Cup and has instead demanded that the matches be shifted to a neutral venue.

Along with Mustafizur Rahman, several other Bangladeshi cricketers have registered for PSL 11. Nearly 10 players from Bangladesh are now part of the registration pool, including Taskin Ahmed, Shakib Al Hasan, Rishad Hossain, and Tanzid Hasan.

The growing presence of Bangladeshi players highlights PSL’s rising appeal among international cricketers ahead of the league’s player draft.

U19 Opener Sameer Minhas breaks world record for fastest ODI century

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U19 Opener Sameer

Harare: Pakistan’s rising star, Sameer Minhas, has shattered the world record for the fastest century in Under-19 One Day International cricket.

The 19-year-old opener achieved the feat on Tuesday during the U19 ODI Tri-Series final between Pakistan and host Zimbabwe in Harare, surpassing the previous record held by India’s Vibhav Suryavanshi, who had scored a century off 52 balls against England last July.

Minhas reached his century in just 42 balls, setting a new benchmark in youth ODI cricket. Continuing his aggressive innings, he went on to score 114 runs off 51 balls, including 17 fours and 5 sixes.

Thanks to Minhas’ explosive batting, Pakistan chased down Zimbabwe’s 159-run target with ease, losing only one wicket, and secured the U19 ODI Tri-Series title.

This remarkable performance further cements Sameer Minhas’ reputation as one of Pakistan’s most promising young cricketers.

Pakistan’s Under-19 cricket team secured a comprehensive 9-wicket victory over Zimbabwe to win the three-nation U19 ODI Tri-Series on Tuesday.

Chasing a target of 159 runs, Pakistan reached the total in just 16.2 overs, losing only one wicket. Sameer Minhas starred with a blazing 114 runs, while Mohammad Shayan contributed 38 and Usman Khan 2**, remaining not out.

For Zimbabwe, Leroy Chiovala took the lone wicket.

Earlier, Zimbabwe, batting first, were restricted to 158 all out. Pakistan’s Omar Zia wreaked early havoc, dismantling Zimbabwe’s top order and leaving the team at 15/5.

Some resistance came from Michael Bulgnat (60) and *Ttenda Chemogoro (28)**, who helped push the score to 158.

Pakistan’s bowlers shared the spoils: Omar Zia (4 wickets), Abdul Subhan (2), and Mohammad Siyam, Danial Ali Khan, and Ahmed Hussain (1 each).

The dominant win highlights Pakistan U19’s bowling strength and explosive batting, with Sameer Munhas’ record-breaking century leading the way.

UK faces harsh winter spell with temperatures dropping below -12°C

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UK faces harsh winter

LONDON: The United Kingdom is witnessing record-breaking cold nights, with minimum temperatures dropping to historic lows across several regions.

According to media reports, the temperature in Marham, Norfolk, fell to minus 12.5°C overnight, marking one of the coldest nights recorded this winter. The severe cold has significantly disrupted daily life, particularly affecting schools and transportation.

Foreign media reports state that due to extreme winter conditions, children’s Christmas holidays have been extended, while hundreds of schools remained closed for a second consecutive day. Commuters travelling by road, rail, and air are also facing serious difficulties.

British media further reported that, calls for assistance due to car breakdowns surged by 40 percent, highlighting the impact of freezing conditions on vehicles.

In northern Scotland, heavy snowfall has led to major disruptions in rail services, which are not expected to return to normal until later in the evening. Eurostar services between London and the Netherlands have also been affected, with trains reportedly unable to travel beyond Brussels.

Additionally, severe snowfall has forced the cancellation of flights at Aberdeen and Inverness airports, while Liverpool John Lennon Airport has been temporarily closed to passengers.

Authorities have urged the public to exercise caution, as freezing temperatures and snow continue to pose risks across the UK.

South Korean President calls hair loss serious national issue

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South Korean President

Seoul: South Korean President Lee Jae-Myung has described hair loss as a serious and emerging national concern, calling it a matter of “survival” for the country.

According to international media reports, the president stated that hair loss is not merely a cosmetic issue, but one that can lead to mental stress, reduced self-confidence, and social challenges, and therefore requires serious attention.

To address the issue, President Lee proposed government-supported measures, including research initiatives, public assistance programs, and potential subsidies aimed at tackling hair loss nationwide.

The statement has sparked a public debate across South Korea, dividing opinion into two camps.

One group considers the initiative a positive step for public health and mental well-being, while the other questions the government’s priorities, arguing that pressing economic and social issues should take precedence.

Iranian leadership reacts strongly to Trump’s threat of intervention over protests

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Iranian leadership

Tehran/Washington: Iranian leadership has issued a strong response to US President Donald Trump’s warning of American intervention in Iran in the event of violence against peaceful protesters.

Ali Shamkhani, adviser to Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, warned that any interventionist hand moving toward Iran’s security would be cut off. In a statement posted on the social media platform X, Shamkhani said the Iranian nation is well aware of America’s past “rescue missions,” whether in Iraq, Afghanistan, or Gaza.

Meanwhile, Ali Larijani, Secretary of Iran’s National Security Council, also responded to President Trump’s remarks in an English-language post on X. He said that following recent statements by Trump and Israeli officials, behind-the-scenes activities have now become clear.

Larijani stressed that Iran clearly distinguishes between peaceful protesting traders and acts of unrest and agitation. He warned that U.S. interference in Iran’s internal affairs would destabilize the entire region and harm American interests.

He further cautioned that the American public should be aware that this adventurism was initiated by President Trump himself, and therefore they should remain mindful of the safety of U.S. troops.

The reaction follows President Trump’s statement on his Truth Social account, where he said that if Iran uses violence against peaceful demonstrators or kills them, the United States would intervene to protect them. Trump added that the U.S. is fully prepared to act to safeguard protesters.

Trump warns of US intervention if Iran uses force against protesters

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Trump warns

Washington/Tehran: US President Donald Trump has warned that the United States would intervene if Iranian authorities use violence against peaceful protesters.

In a statement posted on his Truth Social account, President Trump said that if Iran attacks or kills peaceful demonstrators, the United States will step in to protect them. He added that the U.S. is fully prepared to act to safeguard protesters.

Reacting strongly to the warning, Ali Larijani, adviser to Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, said that any US interference in Iran’s internal protests would be equivalent to spreading chaos in the region. He stressed that President Trump should understand that American intervention would only fuel instability.

The remarks come amid violent protests in Iran against rising inflation and the sharp decline in the national currency. According to reports, clashes between Iranian security forces and protesters have resulted in six deaths, while 30 protesters have been arrested in recent days.

Tensions remain high as international attention grows over the unrest and the possibility of foreign involvement.

Bangladesh Cricket Board announces series against Pakistan

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Bangladesh Cricket Board

Dhaka: The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has officially announced an upcoming bilateral series against Pakistan, with matches scheduled across March and May 2026.

According to the announcement, the Pakistan cricket team will tour Bangladesh in March 2026 for a three-match One Day International (ODI) series. The ODI matches will be played on March 12, 14, and 16, 2026.

In addition, Pakistan will return to Bangladesh in May 2026 for a two-match Test series, which will be part of the ICC World Test Championship. The first Test is scheduled for May 8, followed by the second Test on May 16.

The Pakistan team is set to arrive in Bangladesh on May 4, 2026, ahead of the Test series.

The Bangladesh Cricket Board stated that the venues for both the ODI and Test series will be announced at a later date.

Usman Khawaja announces retirement, speaks out against racial bias

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Usman Khawaja

Sydney: Australian Test cricketer Usman Khawaja has announced his retirement from international cricket, while also expressing deep disappointment over what he described as racial bias and discriminatory treatment from sections of former players and the media.

During his retirement announcement, Khawaja said he had always felt different within the Australian team, adding that this feeling persists even now and stemmed from his background.

“I have always felt different in the Australian setup. Even today, that feeling remains, and it was because of where I come from,” he said.

Khawaja acknowledged that the Australian cricket team represents the nation’s pride and excellence but revealed that he was often treated differently. “I believe this is Australia’s best team and a source of pride, but in many situations, I felt people behaved differently towards me,” he added.

Highlighting his identity, Khawaja said, “I am a proud Muslim of Pakistani origin who was once told he would never play for Australia. Look at me now — if I can do it, so can you.”

The 39-year-old also addressed criticism surrounding his recent fitness issues, explaining that a back strain was beyond his control. He said verbal attacks from media figures and former players were difficult to endure.

“I could tolerate it for a day or two, but I faced it for almost five days,” he said.

Usman Khawaja will play his 88th and final Test match in Sydney, the same ground where he made his Test debut against England 15 years ago, bringing his distinguished international career full circle.

Xi Jinping says no one can stop China-Taiwan reunification

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Xi Jinping

Beijing: Chinese President Xi Jinping stated that no one can prevent China and Taiwan from reunifying, emphasizing that people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait share a bond of blood and kinship.

In his New Year address, Xi said that reunification with Taiwan is unavoidable and cannot be stopped. His remarks came a day after the conclusion of two-day Chinese military exercises near Taiwan, which were conducted shortly after the US approved arms sales worth over $11 billion to Taiwan.

Xi stressed that the shared heritage of Chinese people across the strait makes reunification a matter of historical inevitability. “The motherland’s reunification is the call of time, and it cannot be prevented,” he said.

The Chinese president also reaffirmed China’s commitment to global peace and development, noting that China stands ready to cooperate with all countries to promote humanity’s common future.

Xi praised the decision to observe Taiwan Recovery Day on October 25, commemorating the end of Japanese occupation of Taiwan after World War II.

He further highlighted China’s achievements in artificial intelligence and the space industry, noting that the country is advancing rapidly in AI models and has made significant progress in chip research and development. Xi said these advancements position China among the world’s fastest-growing economies.

Usman Khan confident Pakistan can win T20 World Cup under Coach Mike Hesson

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Usman Khan

Dhaka: Pakistan wicketkeeper-batter Usman Khan has expressed confidence that Pakistan has an excellent chance of winning the 2026 T20 World Cup, thanks to the thorough preparation under head coach Mike Hesson.

Speaking during the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), Usman said, “Our coach Mike Hesson has ensured we are well-prepared ahead of the World Cup. Next month, we will play matches against Sri Lanka and Australia to further fine-tune our skills. The team combination is strong, and we are very confident.”

Representing Dhaka Capitals in the BPL, Usman Khan will join the Pakistan squad in Dambulla, Sri Lanka, on January 7 for a three-match T20 series. He emphasized that playing in Sri Lanka will give the team a good opportunity to understand the pitches ahead of the World Cup.

“I am visiting Sri Lanka for the first time. We are focusing on improving our play against fast bowlers, and our goal is to win the series there,” he added.

Usman also highlighted that playing in Bangladesh helped him adjust to different conditions. “I have also played in the UAE, but Pakistan is my priority. Pakistan is my country, and these are my people. I thank Allah for giving me the opportunity to represent Pakistan,” he said.

The ICC T20 World Cup 2026 will begin on February 7 in India, with Pakistan playing all of its group-stage matches in Sri Lanka.