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Sports

Colombo weather poses risk to Pakistan vs India T20 World Cup showdown

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Colombo weather

Colombo: The highly anticipated Group A clash between Pakistan and India in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, scheduled for tomorrow in Colombo, may be affected by rain.

Meteorologists from the Sri Lanka Department of Meteorology have warned that a low-pressure system forming over the Bay of Bengal could bring heavy showers during the evening match.

The weather is expected to start warm and humid, with temperatures reaching 30–31°C during the day. However, thunderstorms and intermittent rainfall are predicted in the afternoon, with a 50–70% chance of precipitation.

The match is set to begin at 7:00 PM local time, but some weather models indicate that heavy rain could occur before the toss, potentially causing delays or a reduction in overs. While forecasts suggest slight improvement after 8:00 PM, intermittent rain is likely throughout the night.

In case the match is washed out, both Pakistan and India will be awarded one point each. Fans are eagerly hoping that weather does not dampen this high-voltage encounter.

Indian cricket team had to cut short their training session in Colombo due to a light drizzle, ahead of the much-anticipated T20 World Cup clash against Pakistan.

The unexpected rain forced the players to leave the ground earlier than planned, as preparation ramps up for the high-profile Group A encounter scheduled for February 15. Officials confirmed that the team will monitor the weather conditions closely and adjust training sessions accordingly.

Fans and analysts are keeping a close watch on Colombo’s unpredictable weather, as showers could impact match timing or even reduce overs for the Pakistan-India showdown.

Former Indian cricketer and Umpire clear Usman Tariq’s bowling action

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Former Indian cricketer

Ahead of the highly anticipated Pakistan vs India T20 World Cup match, concerns over Pakistani spinner Usman Tariq’s bowling action have been addressed by former Indian cricketer Anil Choudhary, following earlier clarification by Ravichandran Ashwin.

Usman Tariq, whose bowling style differs slightly from traditional spinners, has been under scrutiny on social media and mainstream media in India, with critics questioning his pause during delivery. However, the ICC has fully cleared his action, and he successfully bowled against the USA earlier in the tournament.

Speaking on an Indian digital show, umpire Anil Choudhary confirmed that Usman Tariq’s bowling action is legitimate. He noted that Tariq pauses during every delivery as part of his routine action, making it completely legal under ICC regulations.

Choudhary explained that problems would arise only if Tariq deviates from his routine action and bowls without the usual pause, as such changes could be challenged by the batter.

He cited previous instances where players like Andre Russell faced scrutiny when they altered their usual actions mid-game.

When asked whether a batter could raise a complaint if Usman pauses excessively, Choudhary clarified that umpires would assess the situation according to the bowler’s routine.

If no significant change is observed, the action remains legal; otherwise, the batter may approach the umpire. In cases where a batter refuses to play without valid reason, the umpire can issue a time-wasting warning.

Earlier, Ashwin had also stated that the legality of a bowling action is determined only through ICC testing centers, and according to ICC rules, a 15-degree elbow flexion is allowed. Pauses during delivery, he added, are fully compliant with these regulations.

This clarification comes at a crucial time as Pakistan prepares to face India, easing concerns about Usman Tariq’s participation and effectiveness in the high-stakes clash.

Major upset in T20 World Cup as Zimbabwe beats Australia

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Major upset in T20

In a stunning turn of events at the T20 World Cup group stage, Zimbabwe pulled off a remarkable upset by defeating former champions Australia in Colombo.

Zimbabwe batted first and posted a total of 169 runs, setting a target of 170 for Australia. In response, Australia fell short, being bowled out for 146 runs in the 20th over, handing Zimbabwe a 23-run victory.

Zimbabwe’s Batting Performance

Zimbabwe lost only 2 wickets while scoring 169 runs in their 20 overs. Brendan Bennett led the innings with a brilliant 64 runs, supported by Tadiwanashe Marumani and Ryan Burl, who scored 35 runs each. Sikandar Raza contributed 25 runs, helping Zimbabwe post a competitive total.

Australia Struggles in Chase

Australia struggled against Zimbabwe’s bowling attack, with Matt Renshaw scoring 65 runs as the only notable contribution. Glenn Maxwell added 31 runs, but no other Australian batsman could make a significant impact. Eight Australian players failed to reach double figures.

Zimbabwe’s Bowling Heroics

Blessing Muzarabani was the standout bowler for Zimbabwe, taking 4 crucial wickets and dismantling the Australian batting lineup, ensuring a memorable victory for his team.

This win marks one of the biggest upsets in the tournament, highlighting Zimbabwe’s competitive edge and sending a strong message to other teams in the group stage.

ICC calls meeting ahead of Pakistan-India T20 clash to address strained relations

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ICC calls meeting

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has organized a high-level meeting to address deteriorating relations between Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh, ahead of the much-anticipated Pakistan-India match in the T20 World Cup.

Bangladesh Cricket Board President Aminul Islam confirmed the development in an interview with a local newspaper. He stated that ICC has invited the heads of Asian cricket boards to Colombo, where they will also be visible together in the pavilion before the February 15 clash.

The purpose of the meeting, according to Aminul Islam, is to provide a platform for dialogue among the board heads to resolve ongoing issues and improve relations ahead of the World Cup.

The meeting in Colombo will include cricket board chiefs from Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Afghanistan.

ICC aims for meaningful discussions to take place prior to the Pakistan-India game, helping to ease tensions that have affected the global cricketing environment in recent weeks.

High-voltage Pakistan-India T20 match faces rain disruption in Colombo

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High-voltage

Colombo: The much-anticipated Group A clash between Pakistan and India in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, scheduled for Sunday, February 15, in Colombo, faces uncertainty due to expected rainfall.

According to various meteorological reports, there is a 50% chance of storms accompanied by rain and lightning on match day. Approximately 2.1 mm of rainfall is forecast for around 6:00 pm.

If the match is washed out due to rain, both Pakistan and India would be awarded one point each. Fans are eagerly hoping that the high-voltage encounter proceeds without weather interruptions.

Currently, Pakistan leads Group A with four points, having won both of their matches in the tournament so far.

Islamabad United picks U19 Star Sameer Minhas for 19 million

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Islamabad United

LAHORE: The Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2026 player auction began today at the Expo Center in Lahore, with over 800 domestic and international cricketers registered. Each franchise will finalize a squad of 16 to 20 players ahead of the upcoming season.

The spotlight of the auction has been on Pakistan Under-19 opening batter Sameer Minhas, who has recently set multiple records and made headlines on the international stage.

Minhas achieved a record-breaking century in just 42 balls during the final of the Youth ODI Tri-Series against Zimbabwe, marking the fastest century in Youth One-Day cricket history.

He also starred in the final against India, scoring a sensational 172 runs off 113 balls, further cementing his reputation as one of Pakistan’s brightest young talents.

In addition, Minhas set a record for the most runs scored via boundaries in a single Youth ODI innings and finished the tournament with a total of 447 runs, earning the title of Player of the Tournament.

During today’s PSL auction, Islamabad United made headlines by securing all-rounder Faheem Ashraf for PKR 8.5 million.

 A fierce bidding war then unfolded between Quetta Gladiators and Islamabad United for the talented under-19 star Sameer Minhas, with Islamabad United ultimately acquiring him for PKR 19 million.

The auction marks a significant moment in PSL history, showcasing a blend of seasoned professionals and emerging youth talent, as franchises prepare for an exciting 2026 season.

South Africa defeat Afghanistan in second super over thriller

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South Africa

Ahmedabad, India: In a nail-biting Group D encounter of the T20 World Cup 2026, South Africa defeated Afghanistan in the second super over at Ahmedabad, securing a dramatic four-run victory.

Afghanistan captain Rashid Khan won the toss and elected to field first, inviting South Africa to bat. After a high-scoring 20-over innings from both teams, the match ended in a tie with 187 runs each, forcing a super over to decide the winner.

Super Overs

In the first super over, Afghanistan batted first and scored 17 runs, with South Africa responding with an identical 17, keeping fans on edge. In the decisive second super over, South Africa posted 23 runs, while Afghanistan managed 19, giving the Proteas a thrilling win by four runs.

South Africa Innings

South Africa’s innings began with Adam Markram and Quinton de Kock. Markram was dismissed early for 12, caught off Fazal Hak Farooqi. Following this early setback, De Kock and Rilee Rossouw played responsibly, putting on an excellent partnership and both completing their half-centuries in the same over.

 Rossouw scored 61 while De Kock made 59. Dewald Brevis added 23 runs, and David Miller contributed 20 runs. Afghanistan’s bowling effort saw Azmatullah Omarzai take three wickets, while Rashid Khan claimed two.

Afghanistan Innings

Afghanistan opened with Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran. Despite a promising start, the team collapsed in the middle overs, losing 5 wickets in 13 balls, and was eventually all out for 187 in the 20th over. Rahmanullah Gurbaz played a powerful knock of 87 runs off 42 balls, hitting 7 sixes and 4 fours, while Azmatullah Omarzai scored 22 and Rashid Khan 20. South Africa’s Lungi Ngidi took three crucial wickets to keep Afghanistan under pressure.

This match marked Afghanistan’s second game of the tournament, following a loss to New Zealand in their opener. South Africa, meanwhile, continued their winning streak with a previous 57-run victory over Canada.

International Cholistan Jeep rally begins in Bahawalpur

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International Cholistan

Bahawalpur/Cholistan: The 21st International Cholistan Jeep Rally has officially begun, marking the start of a major motorsport event in Pakistan. The rally, one of the country’s largest off-road competitions, will continue from 11 to 15 February 2026.

On the first day, registration of racing vehicles along with technical and mechanical inspections are underway. Participants are also completing vehicle tagging, driver conferences, and medical check-ups.

The schedule of the rally is as follows:

12 February: Qualifying round

13 February: First race for Prepared Category vehicles

14 February: Stock Category vehicle race

15 February: Final round for Prepared Category vehicles

The rally track spans a total of 452 kilometers, offering a challenging course for participants.

In addition to jeep racing, the event will feature truck races, dirt bike competitions, and a cultural festival, making it a comprehensive entertainment and motorsport extravaganza for attendees.

Pakistan beat USA by 32 runs in ICC Men’s T20 World Cup

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Pakistan beat USA

COLOMBO: Pakistan registered their second consecutive victory in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, defeating the United States by 32 runs in a Group A match played in Colombo.

After winning the toss, the USA opted to field first, inviting Pakistan to bat. Pakistan posted a competitive total of 190 runs for the loss of nine wickets in their allotted 20 overs, with Sahibzada Farhan top-scoring with an impressive 73.

In reply, the United States could manage 158 runs for eight wickets in 20 overs, falling short of the target. Pakistan’s win also helped them avenge their defeat against the USA in 2024.

Pakistan made one change to their playing XI for the match, bringing in Usman Tariq in place of Salman Mirza.

Pakistan’s innings got off to a solid start as openers Saim Ayub and Sahibzada Farhan put together a 54-run partnership. Saim Ayub was dismissed for 19, while captain Salman Ali Agha departed cheaply for just one run.

Farhan then added valuable runs alongside Babar Azam, completing his half-century with confident stroke play. Babar scored 46 off 32 balls before being dismissed, while Farhan’s innings came to an end at 73. Shadab Khan also made a quick impact, scoring 30 runs off just 12 deliveries.

For the USA, Shadley van Schalkwyk was the standout bowler, claiming four wickets.

Earlier, Pakistan had defeated the Netherlands by three wickets in a thrilling encounter, while the USA had suffered a loss against India.

Walee Tech acquires Multan for Rs2.45b, renames team Rawalpindi

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Wilee Tech acquires

LAHORE: Walee Tech has acquired the Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchise Multan for Rs2.45 billion, making it the most expensive franchise in the league’s history, and announced that the team will now be renamed Rawalpindi.

The auction ceremony for the Multan Sultans franchise was held in Lahore, where five bidders participated. The base price for the franchise was set at Rs1.82 billion.

After a competitive bidding process, Walee Tech secured ownership rights for a period of 10 years at a record price of Rs2.45 billion.

Following the completion of the auction, Wilee Tech’s management formally announced the change of the team’s name from Multan to Rawalpindi.

Addressing a press conference, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi congratulated Walee Tech on the successful acquisition and thanked former PCB chairman Najam Sethi for establishing the Multan Sultan franchise. He also appreciated all bidders for their participation in the transparent auction process.

Mohsin Naqvi said the sale was the result of months of hard work and strategic planning aimed at maximizing the franchise’s value.

He revealed that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also expressed happiness over the successful outcome, adding that some critics had earlier claimed the team would not even reach a valuation of Rs1 billion.

“The increase in the franchise value reflects the vision behind the PSL,” Naqvi said, adding that the league aims to grow beyond Pakistan and establish itself as a major global cricket event with top international players.

However, the PCB chairman also expressed personal sadness over the name change, stating that Multan Sultans had become a strong and historic brand over the years.

He acknowledged the efforts of PSL CEO Salman Naseer in building the franchise and said the matter of branding would be considered carefully in the future.