Cricket World Cup 2023: Semi-Final Qualification Scenario For All 10 Teams Explained | Cricket News

The ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 has reached a critical juncture in the group stage, wherein teams have three games left to secure a berth in the semi-finals. A total of 9 teams are still in contention for one of the semi-final spots, with Bangladesh being the only one to be knocked out. No team, yet, has confirmed their progress or been knocked out of contention for the semis. Host nation India is in pole position to make the World Cup 2023 semi-finals as they are atop the standings with six wins in six matches. South Africa, who have won five of six games, along with New Zealand and Australia currently complete the top four.

ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 points table

ICC World Cup 2023 semi-finals qualification scenarios
India

India, currently on 12 points, need only one more point to secure a semi-final berth in the World Cup 2023. A win or a tie or a no result in either of their final three games will be enough to ensure their progress as all other teams outside the current top four can only get to a maximum of 12 points.

India face Sri Lanka next at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on November 2. It is followed by South Africa on November 5 and their final group-stage match against the Netherlands on November 12.

In case India lose all three matches, an Afghanistan defeat in their next match will seal India’s semi-final berth.

South Africa

The Temba Bavuma-led South African team need three more points to guarantee a place in the semi-finals. However, they play top-four rivals New Zealand and India, followed by challengers Afghanistan in their final three group games.

Meanwhile, only one win could also be enough for the Proteas to make the knockouts, depending on the results of the teams currently placed between 5th and 10th positions on the points table.

New Zealand

New Zealand began the tournament with four wins on the bounce but lost to India and Australia thereafter. The Blackcaps will need at least two victories from their remaining three matches to advance into the semi-finals.

New Zealand will take on South Africa in Pune on November 1. A win for the Kiwis will help them strengthen their chances of making it to the next round while also potentially opening it to a three-way battle for the second spot in the points table.

On the other hand, the Blackcaps can also go through to the semis despite a defeat to the Proteas by beating Sri Lanka and Pakistan in their other two matches, which would also dent the qualification hopes for those two teams.

Australia

Australia are in a similar situation as their trans-Tasman rivals New Zealand. Pat Cummins and Co. need two wins in three games to strengthen their chances of a spot in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 semi-finals.

After defeats in their opening two games, Australia are on a four-match winning streak while boosting their net run rate after a 309-run success against the Netherlands. The five-time ODI World Cup winners will take on reigning champions England next.

A win against England will put them one win away from the next round. However, if they lose to the Three Lions, Australia can still progress with victories against Afghanistan and Bangladesh.

Two defeats, meanwhile, would not necessarily be the end of the road for Australia, courtesy of their net run rate. But they will have to depend on other results to advance to the semis.

Afghanistan

Afghanistan bolstered their chances of making the World Cup semi-finals for the first time after beating Sri Lanka by seven wickets on October 30. They can achieve a maximum of 12 points, considering they beat the Netherlands, Australia and South Africa.

However, Afghanistan will need either Australia or New Zealand to lose at least one match by a massive margin or lose two while winning all three of their upcoming encounters in the tournament to stand a chance of progressing to the next stage.

Sri Lanka

The 1996 World Cup champions Sri Lanka, too, are not mathematically ruled out of semi-final qualification in this edition. They currently have four points and with three matches to go, the Lankans can score a maximum of 10 points.

Firstly, Sri Lanka would need to win all their remaining three games, which includes beating two of the current top four teams, India and New Zealand. Sri Lanka will also need at least two of the five teams currently above them to not notch more than 10 points. They would also need to hope that those teams end up with an inferior net run rate compared to them.

Pakistan

Alike Sri Lanka, Pakistan can also notch a maximum of 10 points in the group stage.

The Babar Azam-led outfit defeated Bangladesh to keep their campaign alive, but also need to win against New Zealand and England in their two remaining matches while also hoping that the current top four teams – India, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa – lose their remaining matches to stand a chance to qualify.

However, even one defeat could end the road for the 1992 World Cup winners if Australia and New Zealand win one of their remaining three matches.

Netherlands

The Netherlands, too, are on four points with three matches to go, wherein they will take on Afghanistan, England and India. The Dutch need to win all three games with a massive victory margin, to stand a chance of making it to their first-ever World Cup semi-finals.

At the same time, they will also hope that no more than three teams finish the group stage with 10 points or more as the Netherlands can score a maximum of 10 themselves.

Bangladesh

The defeat against Pakistan knocked Bangladesh out of the World Cup semi-finals race. Even mathematical permutations and combinations can’t see them secure a top 4 spot now.

England

The defending champions England are all but out of semi-final contention in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, although they can mathematically still qualify. The Englishmen would need to beat Australia, the Netherlands and Pakistan by massive margins and similar to Bangladesh, hope that only three teams finish with more than eight points in the standings.

However, a defeat in either of the three matches would see them exit the tournament in the group stage itself.

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Pakistan vs Sri Lanka Highlights, ICC ODI World Cup 2023: Pakistan Record Highest-Ever World Cup Chase, Beat Sri Lanka By 6 Wickets | Cricket News

PAK vs SL Highlights, World Cup 2023: Pakistan beat Sri Lanka by 6 wickets.© AFP

Pakistan vs Sri Lanka Highlights, ODI World Cup 2023: Mohammad Rizwan scored 131 not out while Abdullah Shafique hit 113 as Pakistan defeated Sri Lanka by 6 wickets to record the highest chase of World Cup history. Earlier, fiery centuries from Kusal Mendis and Sadeera Samarawickrama guided Sri Lanka to 344 for 9 in 50 overs. Opting to bat first, Sri Lanka lost an early wicket of Kusal Perera but they got back on track. Mendis smashed 122 runs while Sadeera scored 108. (Scorecard | Points Table)

Here are the Highlights of the ODI World Cup 2023 match between Pakistan and Sri Lanka:

  • 22:28 (IST)

    PAK vs SL, Cricket WC Live: Pakistan win!!!

    Pakistan have won the game by 6 wickets. They have recorded the highest-ever World Cup chase. What a win this is for the side! They lost two early wickets in this chase of 345 runs but Mohammed Rizwan and Abdullah Shafique scored impressive centuries to help the side win the game.

  • 22:14 (IST)

    PAK vs SL, Cricket WC Live: Pakistan four down!

    Pakistan have lost the wicket of Saud Shakeel of late, but they are still solid in this chase, thanks to Mohammad Rizwan’s unbeaten century. Apart from their poor bowling, Sri Lanka also have their poor luck to blame. Pakistan need 26 runs in 24 balls.

    PAK 319/4 (46)

  • 21:53 (IST)

    PAK vs SL, Cricket WC Live: Century for Rizwan!

    Mohammed Rizwan races to his third ODI century in 97 balls. He still there at the middle despite struggling with his fitness. This is turning out to be a wonderful knock for Pakistan.

  • 21:31 (IST)

    ODI WC Live:Injured Rizwan continues to fight!

    Mohammad Rizwan seems to be suffering with cramps but he continues to bat for Pakistan. They need 94 runs in 78 balls. Meanwhile, Rizwan is 90 not out off 82 balls.

    PAK 251/3 (37)

  • 21:11 (IST)

    PAK vs SL, Cricket WC Live: OUT!

    The partnership for the fourth wicket has finally been broken! That’s a stunning catch from a substitute fielder Hemantha to dismiss Abdullah Shafique at backward point. The batter has to depart at the score of 113 runs and Sri Lanka will take a sigh of relief, at least for sometime now. 

    PAK 213/3 (33.1)

  • 21:00 (IST)

    PAK vs SL, Cricket WC Live: Shafique on fire!

    A fantastic four from Abdullah Shafique on the off side. He has put his foot on the accelerator pedal and Pakistan are in complete control of this chase now. 19 runs came off the Dilshan Madushanka over.

    PAK 207/2 (32)

  • 20:56 (IST)

    PAK vs SL, Cricket WC Live: Century for Shafique!

    A four to wide of long-on and Abdullah Shafique gets to his maiden ODI century in his first World Cup appearance for Pakistan. What a player he is! Pakistan needed the opener to deliver tonight and here he is… right on the money! 

    PAK 192/2 (31.2)

  • 20:44 (IST)

    PAK vs SL, Cricket WC Live: Fifty for Mohammed Rizwan!

    Mohammed Rizwan hit his fifty in 58 balls. Both he and Abdullah Shafique are well set in the crease and Pakistan are bossing the chase now. Sri Lanka badly need a breakthrough to stay alive in the game.

  • 20:23 (IST)

    PAK vs SL, Cricket WC Live: Pakistan in control!

    Pakistan are going well in this chase with both Mohammad Rizwan and Abdullah Shafique solid at the crease. However, the only thing the Babar Azam-led side need to look from here is that the required run rate doesn’t go too high.

  • 20:07 (IST)

    PAK vs SL, Cricket WC Live: Fifty for Shafique!

    Abdullah Shafique raced to his half-century in 58 balls. The milestone for the player came on the final ball of the 19th over. Dunith Wellalage bowled the 20th over and six runs came off it. This partnership between Shafique and Mohammad Rizwan now looks threatening for Sri Lanka.

    PAK 110/2 (20)

  • 19:51 (IST)

    PAK vs SL, Cricket WC Live: Pakistan make recovery!

    Abdullah Shafique is getting close to his half-century. Pakistan are looking in control of this chase now as Mohammad Rizwan is also solid at the other end.

    PAK 81/2 (16)

  • 19:19 (IST)

    PAK vs SL, Cricket WC Live: Sri Lanka lose a review!

    That was more of a desperate review from Sri Lanka and they lose it. A bouncer from Dilshan Madushanka hit the helmet of Abdullah Shafique before the fielder caught the ball. Sri Lankan players thought there was an edge but they were completely wrong as confirmed by the snickometer.

    PAK 48/2 (10)

  • 19:05 (IST)

    PAK vs SL, Cricket WC Live: OUT!

    Babar Azam is out! He has literally thrown his wicket away to a poor ball in such a crucial chase. Sri Lanka will take it with open arms though. It was bowled down the leg side from Dilshan Madushanka and Babar nicked it to wicketkeeper Samarawickrama.

    PAK 37/2 (7.2)

  • 18:45 (IST)

    PAK vs SL, Cricket WC Live: WICKET!

    This is a really good start for Sri Lanka now. Dilshan Madushanka has got the wicket of Imam-ul-Haq and Pakistan are in a bit of trouble here.  

    PAK 16/1 (3.3)

  • 18:33 (IST)

    PAK vs SL, Cricket WC Live: Pakistan’s chase underway!

    Pakistan have kicked off their chase of 345 runs. Imam-ul-Haq and Abdullah Shafique have opened the batting for the side. Six runs came off the first over that was bowled by Maheesh Theekshana.

  • 17:58 (IST)

    PAK vs SL, Cricket WC Live: Sri Lanka 344/9 in 50 overs

    Sri Lanka end their innings at 344/9 in 50 overs against Pakistan. For Sri Lanka, Sadeera Samarawickrama scored 108 runs while Kusal Mendis scored 122. Apart from them, Pathum Nissanka scored 51. For Pakistan, Hasan Ali took four wickets while Haris Rauf took two wickets. 

  • 17:56 (IST)

    PAK vs SL, Cricket WC Live: OUT

    OUT!!! Haris Rauf dismisses Maheesh  Theekshana for duck. Theekshana completely fails to judge the delivery as the ball dislodges the off stump. 

    SL 343/8 (49.1 overs)

  • 17:54 (IST)

    PAK vs SL, Cricket WC Live: FOUR

    FOUR!!! Dunith Wellalage hits a boundary off Shaheen Afridi’s delivery. He smashes it hard towards the deep extra cover and steals four runs. 

    SL 343/7 (49 overs)

  • 17:49 (IST)

    PAK vs SL, Cricket WC Live: OUT

    OUT!!! Hasan Ali takes his fourth wicket of the day and this time he removes Sadeera Samarawickrama for 108. Sadeera tries to play a scoop shot but the ball hits the edge and Rizwan takes a brilliant catch behind the stumps. 

    SL 335/7 (48 overs)

  • 17:40 (IST)

    PAK vs SL, Cricket WC Live: OUT

    OUT!!! Shaheen Afridi has taken his first wicket of the day and he removes Dasun Shanaka for 12. Shanaka smashes it hard for a six but fails to time it as the ball lands safely into the hands of Babar Azam. 

    SL 324/6 (46.3 overs)

  • 17:36 (IST)

    PAK vs SL, Cricket WC Live: Sadeera hits ton

    Sadeera Samarawickrama takes a single off  Hasan Ali’s delivery and brings up his century. It is his maiden ton in the ODI format and he brings it up in 82 balls. Terrific batting from Sadeera.

    SL 318/5 (45.5 overs)

  • 17:27 (IST)

    PAK vs SL, Cricket WC Live: SIX

    SIX!!! Sadeera Samarawickrama smashes a huge six off Mohammad Nawaz’s delivery. Sadeera makes room outside the leg-stump and plays a beautiful inside-out loft over extra-cover. 

    SL 305/5 (43.3 overs)

  • 17:19 (IST)

    PAK vs SL, Cricket WC Live: OUT

    OUT!!! Mohammad Nawaz has provided Pakistan with another breakthrough as he dismisses Dhananjaya de Silva for 25. De Silva smashes it hard but ends up giving a catch to Shaheen Afridi. 

    SL 294/5 (41.1 overs)

  • 17:15 (IST)

    PAK vs SL, Cricket WC Live: 11 runs off the over

    Sri Lanka are in a fiery mode as Sadeera Samarawickrama and Dhananjaya de Silva are dealing in boundaries. In the previous over of Hasan Ali, the duo scores 11 runs, which include two boundaries from Sadeera. 

    SL 294/4 (41 overs)

  • 17:02 (IST)

    PAK vs SL, Cricket WC Live: FOUR

    FOUR!!! Dhananjaya de Silva smashes a boundary off Shadab Khan’s delivery. He plays a shot towards the deep mid-wicket and steals four runs. 

    SL 270/4 (38 overs)

  • 16:54 (IST)

    PAK vs SL, Cricket WC Live: 8 runs off the over

    Sadeera Samarawickrama is standing like a huge wall for Sri Lanka as he is regularly dealing in boundaries. In the previous over of Shadab Khan, he smashes two boundaries as the spinner leaks eight runs. 

    SL 255/4 (36 overs)

  • 16:41 (IST)

    PAK vs SL, Cricket WC Live: Sadeera hits 50

    Sadeera Samarawickrama takes a single off Shadab Khan’s delivery and brings up his half-century, It is his sixth half-century in the ODI cricket. Terrific batting from Sadeera. 

    SL 240/4 (33.1 overs)

  • 16:35 (IST)

    PAK vs SL, Cricket WC Live: Good over from Shadab

    Shadab Khan bowls an excellent over and controls the flow of runs. In his previous over, he leaks only two runs as Pakistan aim for another wicket. 

    SL 232/4 (32 overs)

  • 16:31 (IST)

    PAK vs SL Live: OUT

    OUT!!! Hasan Ali has taken his third wicket of the day and this time, Charith Asalanka becomes his prey. The ball hits the edge of the bat as wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan taken a good catch. Fourth wicket gone for Sri Lanka. 

    SL 229/4 (30.1 overs)

  • 16:22 (IST)

    PAK vs SL, Cricket WC Live: OUT

    OUT!!! Hasan Ali has taken his second wicket of the day and this time he removed Kusal Mendis for 122. After hitting two back-to-back sixes, Mendis tries to go for the third one but ends up giving a fantastic catch to Imam Ul Haq at the long-on. Third wicket gone for Sri Lanka. 

    SL 218/3 (28.5 overs)

  • 16:18 (IST)

    PAK vs SL, Cricket WC Live: SIX

    SIX!!! Kusal Mendis smashes two back-to-back sixes off Hasan Ali’s delivery. The first one comes after he places a shot towards the leg-side. While the other one comes after he hammers a shot towards the long-off. Mendis is on fire. 

    SL 218/3 (28.4 overs)

  • 16:15 (IST)

    PAK vs SL, Cricket WC Live: 5 runs off the over

    After leaking too many runs in the past few overs, Pakistan finally take a sigh of relief as Iftikhar Ahmed bowls an economical over. He concedes only five runs as Pakistan aim to break the partnership between Sadeera and Mendis. 

    SL 204/2 (28 overs)

  • 16:10 (IST)

    PAK vs SL, Cricket WC Live: Mendis hits ton

    Kusal Mendis smashes a huge six off Hasan Ali’s delivery and brings up his century in style. It is his third century in the ODI cricket and he brings it up in 65 balls. Terrific batting from Mendis. 

    SL 192/2 (26.1 overs)

  • 16:04 (IST)

    PAK vs SL, Cricket WC Live: Mendis nears ton

    Kusla Mendis is on fire!! In the previous over of Shaheen Afridi, he smashes three back-to-back boundaries as the pacer concedes 14 runs. With this, Mendis has gone past the 91-run mark and inching closer towards his ton. 

    SL 181/2 (25 overs)

  • 15:56 (IST)

    PAK vs SL, Cricket WC Live: FOUR

    FOUR!!! Kusal Mendis smashes a brilliant boundary off Mohammad Nawaz’s delivery. He smartly places a shot between backward point and short third man and steals four runs. 

    SL 166/2 (23 overs)

  • 15:44 (IST)

    PAK vs SL, Cricket WC Live: SIX

    SIX!!! Both Kusal Mendis and Sadeera Samarawickrama punish Haris Rauf with two huge sixes. The first one comes after Mendis smashes it hard towards the deep square leg. While the other one comes after Samarawickrama makes a good use of the short delivery and hammers a maximum. 

    SL 147/2 (21 overs)

  • 15:39 (IST)

    PAK vs SL, Cricket WC Live: 12 runs off the over

    In the previous over of Shadab Khan, Kusal Mendis and Sadeera Samarawickrama score 12 runs. the over includes one boundary from both the batters. 

    SL 127/2 (20 overs)

  • 15:28 (IST)

    PAK vs SL, Cricket WC Live: OUT

    OUT!!! Shadab Khan has provided Pakistan with a major breakthrough as he dismissed Pathum Nissanka for 51. Nissanka tries to steal a boundary but ends up giving a catch to Abdullah Shafique. Second wicket gone for Sri Lanka.

    SL 107/2 (17.2 overs)

  • 15:25 (IST)

    PAK vs SL, Cricket WC Live: Mendis hits 50

    Kusal Menids hit a boundary off Mohammad Nawaz’s delivery and brings up his half-century in style. He takes 40 balls to go past the 50-run mark. 

    SL 107/1 (17 overs)

  • 15:23 (IST)

    PAK vs SL, Cricket WC Live: Nissanka hits 50

    Pathum Nissanka takes a single off Mohammad Nawaz’s delivery and brings up his half-century. It is his 10th half-century in the ODI cricket and he brings it up in 58 balls. Terrific batting from Nissanka. 

    SL 101/1 (16.3 overs)

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Zindagi and Applause Entertainment’s The Pink Shirt starring Sajal Aly and Wahaj Ali set for a world premiere at SXSW 2023 in Sydney on October 16 : Bollywood News – Bollywood Hungama

In a recently announced strategic partnership between the two renowned content studios Applause Entertainment and Zee’s Zindagi, for creating South Asian content; Sameer Nair and Shailja Kejriwal have announced yet another project, The Pink Shirt. The 8-episode web series, starring Pakistani superstars Sajal Aly and Wahaj Ali, marks Applause Entertainment and Zindagi’s second project together. The content studios together promise to be a remarkable addition to the world of entertainment as the drama gears up for its world premiere at the South by Southwest Film Festival 2023 Sydney (SXSW) at Palace Central Cinema on 16th October. Moreover, The Pink Shirt is the only South Asian Web Series selected at the Sydney this year.

Zindagi and Applause Entertainment’s The Pink Shirt starring Sajal Aly and Wahaj Ali set for a world premiere at SXSW 2023 in Sydney on October 16

Following the announcement of Farar’s world premiere at the Chicago South Asian Film Festival earlier this month, The Pink Shirt adds a new feather to Zindagi and Applause Entertainment’s hat of achievements. To witness this global recognition at one of the largest annual festivals celebrating conglomeration of parallel cinema, interactive media, music, and much more; Pakistani superstars and lead actor Sajal Aly along with director Kashif Nisar, writer Bee Gul, and producer Shailja Kejriwal will be attending the grand festival in Australia.

The Pink Shirt is a riveting take on modern-day relationships, their love, challenges, and struggles in a raw & real way. The drama revolves around the journey of Sophia cast as Sajal Aly and Umer as Wahaj Ali being stuck in their respective toxic relationships with their partners Sameer and Sara and how they then discover an alluring intensity and embark on a transformative journey towards love that mends them as people.

Zindagi and Applause Entertainment's The Pink Shirt starring Sajal Aly and Wahaj Ali set for a world premiere at SXSW 2023 in Sydney on October 16

The renowned SXSW festival marks its debut in Sydney this year, making its first foray outside Austin, Texas. The festival will have a diverse array of content, with an emphasis on the Asia-Pacific region.

Expressing her excitement, lead actor Sajal Aly said, “The Pink Shirt challenged me in ways I never imagined, delving deep into the complexities of human connections. It’s a journey I’ve embraced with open arms, and as we prepare for its world premiere in Sydney, I can’t contain my excitement to share this emotional voyage with the world.”

Pakistani heartthrob Wahaj Ali added, “Portraying the complexities of human relationships in The Pink Shirt has been a remarkable challenge and the script demanded an exploration of emotions and vulnerabilities that pushed me as an actor. My experience working with Sajal and Kashif has been an absolute delight. I can’t wait for the audiences to embark on this emotional rollercoaster with us.”

Director Kashif Nisar said, “As the director of The Pink Shirt, I am humbled and thrilled by the opportunity to showcase our work at the prestigious SXSW Sydney as the only representative of the South Asian web series, hoping it will resonate with audiences worldwide and contribute to the rich tapestry of storytelling from our region. It was an absolute pleasure working with Shailja and Bee Gul on this project, and we couldn’t be happier for Zindagi and Applause Entertainment’s collaboration as this merger provides us with the ultimate platform this special project really needs.”

Zindagi and Applause Entertainment's The Pink Shirt starring Sajal Aly and Wahaj Ali set for a world premiere at SXSW 2023 in Sydney on October 16

Reflecting on this significant milestone, Chief Creative Officer (Special Projects) Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd., Shailja Kejriwal adds, “I couldn’t be happier to announce our yet another collaboration with Applause Entertainment. It’s truly thrilling to see The Pink Shirt selected as the only South Asian web series at the prestigious SXSW Film Festival Sydney. This achievement underscores our commitment to bringing diverse narratives to a global stage. I’m immensely proud of our team and excited to witness The Pink Shirt captivate audiences at SXSW Film Festival, Sydney”

Writer Bee Gul adds, “As the writer of The Pink Shirt, my intention has consistently been to weave a tale of love, loss, and unwavering strength that deeply connects with audiences around the globe. The exhilarating debut of our show at the SXSW Film Festival in Sydney is the realization of a long-held dream, affording us a worldwide stage to share this emotionally resonant narrative. I’m profoundly grateful to Shailja for recognizing the same potential we envisioned in ‘Pink Shirt’ and selecting it as the second collaborative endeavour between Zindagi and Applause Entertainment.”

Presented by Applause Entertainment, a Zindagi original The Pink Shirt an 8-part web series, is a South Asian collaboration between India and Pakistan. Directed by Kashif Nisar & written by Bee Gul, starring Sajal Aly and Wahaj Ali, the series highlights a riveting take on modern-day relationships, their love, challenges, and struggles. Narrated in a raw & real way, The Pink Shirt is a simple & confusing, tragic yet funny tale of broken and complex relationships.

ALSO READ: Joyland star Sarwat Gilani headlines Applause Entertainment and Zindagi’s first collaboration Farar; set to premiere at the Chicago South Asian Film Festival 2023

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Cricket World Cup 2023 Captains’ Day: Rohit, Babar Discuss Cricket, Biryani And More | Cricket News

Rohit Sharma at Captain’s Day event




Cricket World Cup 2023 Captains Day Highlights: The likes of Rohit Sharma, Babar Azam, Pat Cummins, Jos Buttler, Kane Williamson, etc. were in the spotlight as Ravi Shastri and Eoin Morgan grilled the 10 captains ahead of the start of the Cricket World Cup 2023. From their respective teams’ preparations, learnings from past events, to some candid Biryani questions, a lot was dicussed at the event.

Here are the Highlights from the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 Captains’ Day







  • 15:13 (IST)

    ICC Cricket World Cup 2023: That’s All Folks!

    Ravi Shastri concludes the event. We onto the Cricket World Cup now!

  • 15:12 (IST)

    World Cup LIVE, Captains’ Day: Kane Williamson On 2019 Heartbreak

    “We are here in another competition. 2019 was amazing but we are looking forward to what this one brings. It will be different from many levels”: Kane Williamson

  • 15:09 (IST)

    Captains’ Day LIVE: Rohit Baffled By Reporter’s Question

    “It’s not my job to decide that”: Rohit Sharma when asked about the 2019 World Cup final where England beat New Zealand on the basis of boundary count after the match was tied in 100 overs and the Super Over.

  • 15:06 (IST)

    Cricket World Cup 2023, LIVE: Babar Azam Really Liked Hyderabadi Biryani

    Babar Azam: Since the time we reached Hyderabad, the hospitality we got, it was amazing. It would’ve been great if fans had come from Pakistan. I hope we get this sort of support in every match. 

    Ravi Shastri: How was the Biryani?

    Babar Azam: It was great. Had always heard Hyderabadi Biryani was good. It was quite good.

  • 15:03 (IST)

    ODI World Cup LIVE: Babar Azam Excited About India Clash

    “We are excited about the India clash. It is always a big match. But, we have two games before that,” said Babar Azam.

  • 15:02 (IST)

    Captains’ Day LIVE: Pat Cummins On Inspiring The Next Generation

    Pat Cummins: “When I was a child growing up, I idolised sports people and cricketers. I wanted to do what they were. It’s important we play the game in the right spirit. It’s important we help children and the less fortunate. “

  • 14:59 (IST)

    World Cup LIVE, Captains’ Day: Rohit Sharma On World Cup In India

    “People are going to love this tournament. The stadiums will be jam-packed. Indians love their cricket. It is going to be a great tournament.” — Rohit Sharma

  • 14:55 (IST)

    Captains’ Day LIVE: Rohit Sharma On Warm-up Games Being Washed Out

    Rohit Sharma when asked about rain washing out the two warm-up games:

    “Not really. We were happy to get those days off. Looking at heat, and stuff like that. We have been playing a lot of cricket of late. We played 4 games in Asia Cup and 3 against Australia. We know where we are at. I would’ve loved to play those two games. But can’t do too much when the weather is like that apart form one part of India to the other part.

    “Overall, happy about how we are coming into the tournament and the guys are looking pretty good,” Rohit said.

  • 14:52 (IST)

    World Cup 2023, Captains’ Day LIVE: Babar Sees Bowling As Pakistan’s Biggest Strength

    Babar Azam on Pakistan’s biggest strength: “Our strength is bowling but as we know, we have been playing well together for the last three years, so bowling is our strength”.

  • 14:50 (IST)

    Captains’ Day LIVE: Rohit Sharma Will Give ‘Everything’

    Rohit Sharma: “Not thinking too much about on that stuff but yeah in last 3 edition hosting teams won the World Cups and we will give our everything in this World Cup and enjoy the tournament”.

  • 14:48 (IST)

    Cricket World Cup, Captains’ Day LIVE: Cummins Confident Of Australia’s Chances

    “Australia have done very well in ODI World Cups over the years. Hoping to do the same this time around”: Pat Cummins, Australia skipper.

  • 14:43 (IST)

    Captains’ Day LIVE: Babar Azam Felt Like Home In Hyderabad

    “We weren’t expecting the sort of reception we got at Hyderabad after we reached India. It didn’t feel like we were in India but back home”: Babar Azam

  • 14:40 (IST)

    Cricket World Cup, Captains’ Day LIVE: Rohit Not Thinking Of Home Factor

    Rohit Sharma not thinking about the ‘home advantage’ and the fact that the last three World Cups were won by the one of the hosts. He is only foucussed on doing his best. 

  • 14:36 (IST)

    Cricket World Cup, Captains’ Day LIVE: Rohit Sharma and Babar Azam Arrive

    The captains of the two arch-rival teams — India and Pakistan — have arrived. Ravi Shastri welcomes Rohit Sharma and Babar Azam before welcome England and New Zealand skippers who led their teams in the 2019 World Cup final.

  • 14:34 (IST)

    Cricket World Cup LIVE, Captains’ Day: We Are Underway!

    Ravi Shastri is on the stage, welcoming all 10 captains. First up are the captains of Netherlands and Afghanistan who are leading their respective teams in an ODI World Cup for the first time ever.

  • 14:26 (IST)

    Cricket World Cup 2023 LIVE, Captains’ Day: Rohit Sharma Sumarising His Personality

    “There is no point in doing showbaazi, it’s not in my nature. People around me, friends around me whom I have grown up with, have kept reminding me where I have come from. We just live normal lives. Why will I change and why should I change? I’m still not socially comfortable actually because I feel awkward. I am very poor at socialising. I get very uncomfortable at these events, struggling with small talk. I have a bunch of friends who are connected to me because I have connected with them, they have connected to me. Quality matters to me. People who are genuine, who are true, I connect somehow and feel quite comfortable in that atmosphere,” Rohit said in a chat with Indian Express.

  • 14:16 (IST)

    Cricket World Cup, Captains’ Day LIVE: How To Watch Live Streaming?

    Star Sports will broadcast the Captains’ Day live on their YouTube channel. The 10 captains will be speaking to former England captain Eoin Morgan and ex-India head coach Ravi Shastri at the event, answering some crucial questions.

  • 14:09 (IST)

    ICC World Cup 2023 LIVE: No Opening Ceremony?

    Reports of certain performances at the ICC Cricket World Cup opening ceremony did surface a few days ago but it doesn’t look like the organisers have any concrete opening ceremony plans at present. We are likely to head straight into the first match between England and New Zealand, the two finalists of the last edition.

  • 14:05 (IST)

    World Cup 2023, Capains’ Day LIVE: Candid Talk And More

    Captains Rohit Sharma, Babar Azam, Pat Cummins, Jos Buttler, etc. will have some candid talks during the chat. Expect everything but strategies to be discussed at the event, as was the case 4 years ago.

  • 13:56 (IST)

    Captains’ Day LIVE: Rohit Sharma Meets Babar Azam

    India captain Rohit Sharma had an opportunity to meet his Pakistani counterpart Babar Azam before the Captains’ Day began. Here’s the video that the PCB shared on the two stalwarts’ meeting:

  • 13:50 (IST)

    ICC World Cup 2023: Captains’ Await A Special Day

    Hello and welcome to our live coverage of the Captains’ Day, ahead of the start of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023. England are scheduled to take on New Zealand in the curtain-raiser fixture tomorrow. But, before the on-field contest, the 10 captains will discuss what awaits them over the next month and a half.

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Pakistan vs Nepal Live Score, Asia Cup 2023: Babar Azam, Shadab Khan Shine As Pakistan Thrash Nepal By 238 Runs | Cricket News

PAK vs NEP Live Score Updates: Pakistan defeat Nepal by 238 runs© AFP

Pakistan vs Nepal Live Score: Fiery centuries from Babar Azam and Iftikhar Ahmed, followed by a three-wicket haul from Shadab Khan guided Pakistan to a massive 238-run victory over Nepal in the opening match of Asia Cup 2023 on Wednesday. After amassing 342 for 6 batting first, Shaheen Shah Afridi struck twice in the first over as Nepal were eventually bowled out for 104. Shadab Khan claimed 4/27 from his 6.4 overs while Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf bowled impressive spells. Aarif Sheikh (26) and Sompal Kami (28) tried to delay the inevitable but Nepal were bundled out in only 23.4 overs. (Live Scorecard)

Pakistan vs Nepal | Asia Cup 2023 Live, Straight from Multan

  • 21:26 (IST)

    Pakistan vs Nepal Live Score: Pakistan win by 238 runs

    Pakistan (342/6) defeat Nepal (104) by 238 runs to begin their Asia Cup 2023 campaign with a massive win. For Pakistan Babar Azam and Iftikhar Ahmed score 151 and 109* runs respectively. Later, Shadab Khan took three wickets while Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf took two wickets each. 

  • 21:25 (IST)

    Pakistan vs Nepal Live Score: OUT

    OUT!!! Shadab Khan gets his third wicket of the night and this time he removes Kushal Malla for 6. Nine wickets gone for Nepal. 

    NEP 104/9 (23.2 overs)

  • 21:22 (IST)

    Pakistan vs Nepal Live Score: OUT

    OUT!!! Shadab Khan strikes again and removes Sandeep Lamichhane for duck. Lamichhane fails to judge the delivery as he gets clean bowled. Eight wickets gone for Nepal. 

    NEP 91/8 (21.5 overs)

  • 21:09 (IST)

    Pakistan vs Nepal Live Score: OUT

    OUT!!! Mohammad Nawaz joins the party and removes Dipendra Singh for 3. Dipendra gets completely bamboozled as Nawaz’s spinning delivery rattles up the bails. Sixth wicket gone for Nepal in the chase of 343. 

    NEP 90/6 (20.5 overs)

  • 20:59 (IST)

    Pakistan vs Nepal Live Score: OUT

    OUT!!! Haris Rauf strikes again and this time he removes Sompal Kami for 28. Sompal tries to play a shot on the outside off delivery but the ball hits the edge and wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan takes a brilliant catch behind the stumps. Fifth wicket gone for Nepal. 

    NEP 82/5 (17 overs)

  • 20:40 (IST)

    Pakistan vs Nepal Live Score: OUT

    OUT!!! Haris Rauf finally has provided Pakistan with another breakthrough as he dismissed Aarif Shiekh for 26. Sheikh completely misjudges the delivery as the pace delivery rattles up the middle stump. Fourth wicket gone for Nepal and the deadly partnership is finally broken. 

    NEP 73/4 (14.4 overs)

  • 20:30 (IST)

    Pakistan vs Nepal Live Score: Pakistan eye wickets

    After taking three wickets in an early stage, Pakistan are now seem to be losing the touch in the game. Aarif Sheikh and Sompal Kami are stitching a good partnership and dealing in boundaries. In the previous over of Shadab Khan, the duo scores seven runs, which include a boundary from Sompal. 

    NEP 73/3 (14 overs)

  • 20:21 (IST)

    Pakistan vs Nepal Live Score: Two boundaries in one over

    Aarif Sheikh and Sompal Kami smash one boundary each on Haris Rauf’s over. In total, the pacer leaks nine runs as Nepal aim to keep the momentum towards their side in the chase of 343. 

    NEP 56/3 (11 overs)

  • 20:12 (IST)

    Pakistan vs Nepal Live Score: 4 runs off the over

    Aarif Sheikh and Sompal Kami are stitching a solid partnership and steadily taking Nepal ahead in the game. In the previous over of Shaheen Afridi, Aarif smashes a boundary as the pacer leaks only four runs. 

    NEP 46/3 (9 overs)

  • 20:00 (IST)

    Pakistan vs Nepal Live Score: Aarif, Sompal steady

    After losing wickets in a quick succession, Nepal rely on a stable partnership between Aarif Sheikh and Sompal Kami. The duo is standing steadily and building some hopes for Nepal. In the previous over of Shaheen Afridi, the duo scores eight runs which include a boundary from Sompal. 

    NEP 36/3 (7 overs)

  • 19:50 (IST)

    Pakistan vs Nepal Live Score: Pakistan on top

    Pakistan pacers Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah have been dominating Nepal. So far, Nepal have lost three wickets and depend upon Aarif Sheikh and Sompal Kami for a stable partnership. On the other, Pakistan aim to end the proceedings at the earliest. 

    NEP 26/3 (5 overs)

  • 19:44 (IST)

    Pakistan vs Nepal Live Score: Good over from Naseem

    After losing three wickets in a quick succession, Nepal are cautiously moving ahead in the chase of 343. In the previous over of Nassem Shah, Aarif Sheikh and Sompal Kami score 4 runs, which include a boundary from the latter. Terrific bowling from the hosts. 

    NEP 22/3 (4 overs)

  • 19:37 (IST)

    Pakistan vs Nepal Live Score: OUT

    OUT!!! Naseem Shah has provided Pakistan with another breakthrough as he removed Aasif Sheikh for 5. Aasif gets completely bamboozled by the swing delivery as the ball touches the edge and Iftikhar Ahmed takes a brilliant catch at the slip. 

    NEP 14/3 (2 overs)

  • 19:25 (IST)

    Pakistan vs Nepal Live Score: OUT

    OUT!!! After scalping the first wicket, Shaheen Afridi roars again on the very next ball as he removes Rohit Paudel for duck. Shaheen strikes on Rohit’s pads as the umpire signals out. Second wicket gone for Nepal in the first over. 

    NEP 10/2 (1 overs)

  • 19:23 (IST)

    Pakistan vs Nepal Live Score: OUT

    OUT!!! Shaheen Afridi provides Pakistan with an early breakthrough as he dismisses Kushal Bhurtel for 8. Bhurtel tries to flick it for a boundary but wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan takes a brilliant catch behind the stumps. First wicket goen for Nepal in the chase.

    NEP 10/1 (0.5 overs)

  • 19:18 (IST)

    Pakistan vs Nepal Live Score: We are back

    Hello and welcome back to the second innings of the Asia Cup 2023 match between Pakistan and Nepal. In the chase of 343 runs, Kushal Bhurtel and Aasif Sheikh have opened the innings for Nepal. On the other hand, Shaheen Afridi will be bowling the first over for Pakistan. 

  • 18:49 (IST)

    Pakistan vs Nepal Live Score: Pakistan 342/6 in 50 overs

    Pakistan score 342/6 in 50 overs against Nepal in the first match of Asia Cup 2023. For Pakistan, Babar Azam scored 151 while Iftikhar Ahmed smashed 109* runs. For Nepal, Sompal Kami scalped two wickets while Sandeep Lamichhane and Karan KC took one wicket each. 

  • 18:48 (IST)

    Pakistan vs Nepal Live Score: OUT

    In the last few minutes of the first innings, Nepal get another breakthrough as Sompal Kami dismisses Babar Azam for 151. In search of a big hit, Babar ends up giving a catch to Sundeep Jora at the long-off. 

    PAK 338/5 (49.4 overs)

  • 18:44 (IST)

    Pakistan vs Nepal Live Score: Iftikhar hits 100

    Iftikhar Ahmed smashes a boundary off Karan KC’s delivery and brings up his century in style. It is his maiden international hundred. Terrific batting from both Babar and Iftikhar as Pakistan still have one over left. 

    PAK 331/4 (49 overs)

  • 18:37 (IST)

    Pakistan vs Nepal Live Score: Babar hits 150

    Babar Azam takes a single off Sompal Kami’s delivery and brings up his 150. He is in terrific form as Pakistan aim for a huge total. On the other hand, Iftikhar Ahmed is also inching closer towards his maiden ODI century. 

    PAK 313/4 (48 overs)

  • 18:29 (IST)

    Pakistan vs Nepal Live Score: 19 runs off the over

    After smashing 20 runs in the previous over, Pakistan maintain the momentum and scores 19 runs in this over. Babar Azam and Iftikhar Ahmed thrash Sandeep Lamichhane as the spinner leaks 19 runs. The over includes a boundary from Iftikhar and two huge sixes from Babar. 

    PAK 294/4 (46 overs)

  • 18:22 (IST)

    Pakistan vs Nepal Live Score: 20 runs off the over

    Pakistan batters open a rampage on Nepal bowlers as they smash 20 overs in the previous over of Sompal Kami. The over include a boundary from Iftikhar Ahmed and two consecutive boundaries and a huge six from Babar Azam. Terrific batting from the duo. 

    PAK 275/4 (45 overs)

  • 18:17 (IST)

    Pakistan vs Nepal Live Score: Iftikhar on fire

    After bringing up his half-century, Iftikhar Ahmed is breathing fire as he has been dealing in boundaries. In the previous over of Dipendra Singh, he smashed a six while two overs ago, he smashed a boundary on Gulshan Jha’s delivery.

    PAK 255/4 (44 overs)

  • 18:06 (IST)

    Pakistan vs Nepal Live Score: Babar hits 100

    Babar Azam takes a single on Dipendra Singh’s delivery and brings up his century in 109 balls. It is his 10th century in the ODI format as four-down Pakistan aim for a good total. On the other hand, Iftikhar Ahmed has also brought up his second half-century. Brilliant batting from both the batters. 

    PAK 225/4 (41.2 overs)

  • 18:05 (IST)

    Pakistan vs Nepal Live Score: Iftikhar hits 50

    Iftikhar Ahmed takes a single off Dipendra Singh’s delivery and brings up his half-century in 43 balls. It is his second half-century in the ODI format. Terrific batting from the Pakistan batter. 

    PAK 223/4 (41.1 overs)

  • 17:48 (IST)

    Pakistan vs Nepal Live Score: Babar nears 100

    After bringing up his 29th ODI half-century, Babar Azam is also inching closer towards his century. It will be his 10th century in the ODI format. On the other, Iftikhar Ahmed is also dealing in boundaries and inching closer towards his fifty. 

    PAK 204/4 (38 overs)

  • 17:38 (IST)

    Pakistan vs Nepal Live Score: Babar struggling with cramps

    Despite putting up a good show with the bat, skipper Babar Azam is in trouble as he has been struggling with cramps. He is facing trouble while running between the wickets. He is standing unbeaten at 81 and inching closer towards his 19th century. 

    PAK 180/4 (35 overs)

  • 17:34 (IST)

    Pakistan vs Nepal Live Score: Babar, Iftikhar solid

    Babar Azam and Iftikhar Ahmed have helped Pakistan to get back on track as the duo is dealing in boundaries. In the previous over of Kushal Bhurtel, the duo smashes 10 runs which include a boundary from both the batters. 

    PAK 167/4 (34 overs)

  • 17:26 (IST)

    Pakistan vs Nepal Live Score: Good over from Sompal

    Sompal Kami bowls a good over and controls the flow of runs. In the previous over, he concedes only five runs as Babar Azam and Iftikhar Ahmed aim for some boundaries. Babar is batting at 71 and will be eyeing a hundred. 

    PAK 157/4 (33 overs)

  • 17:17 (IST)

    Pakistan vs Nepal Live Score: Good over from Karan

    Karan KC once again bowls an economical over and controls the flow of runs. In the previous over, he concedes only a boundary, which was smashed by Iftikhar Ahmed. On the other hand, Iftikhar and Babar Azam are standing strong aim for a good total for Pakistan. 

    PAK 143/4 (31 overs)

  • 17:07 (IST)

    Pakistan vs Nepal Live Score: Babar hits 50

    Babar Azam takes a double on Karan KC’s delivery and brings up his half-century. It is his 29th half-century in the ODI format. Terrific batting from the skipper as Pakistan aim for a huge total. 

    PAK 128/4 (28.2 overs)

  • 17:03 (IST)

    Pakistan vs Nepal Live Score: OUT

    OUT!!! Sandeep Lamichhane has provided Nepal with another breakthrough as he dismissed Agha Salman for 5. Salman plays a reverse sweep in search of a boundary but ended up giving a catch to Kushal Bhurtel at the backward point. Fourth wicket gone for Pakistan. 

    PAK 124/4 (27.5 overs)

  • 16:56 (IST)

    Pakistan vs Nepal Live Score: Good over from Lamichhane

    Sandeep Lamichhane bowls an excellent over and controls the flow of runs. In the previous over, he concedes only four runs and troubles Pakistan batters. On the other hand, Babar Azam is inching closer towards his half-century as he is standing unbeaten at 47. 

    PAK 120/3 (26 overs)

  • 16:47 (IST)

    Pakistan vs Nepal Live Score: OUT

    OUT!!! Big breakthrough for Nepal as Mohammad Rizwan departs for 44. Rizwan plays a shot on Sandeep Lamichhane’s delivery and tries to steal a single. However, a direct hit from Dipendra Singh, puts all his efforts in vain as he gets run out. The strong partnership between Babar and Rizwan is finally broken. 

    PAK 111/3 (23.4 overs)

  • 16:37 (IST)

    Pakistan vs Nepal Live Score: Babar nears 50

    Skipper Babar Azam smashes a brilliant boundary of Lalit Rajbanshi’s delivery and takes Pakistan across the 100-run mark. With that, he also crosses the 40-run mark and inches closer towards his half-century. It will be Babar Azam’s 29th half-century in the ODI format. 

    PAK 100/2 (21.2 overs)

  • 16:32 (IST)

    Pakistan vs Nepal Live Score: Babar, Rizwan Solid

    Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan have stitched a solid partnership of 70 runs and going solid against Nepal. Babar is standing unbeaten at 34 while Rizwan is standing unbeaten at 32. In the previous over, the duo score 7 runs off Dipendra Singh’s delivery, which include a boundary from Rizwan. 

    PAK 91/2 (20 overs)

  • 16:24 (IST)

    Pakistan vs Nepal Live Score: Good over from Dipendra and Lamichhane

    Dipendra Singh and Sandeep Lamichhane bowl economical overs and control the flow of runs. In the last two overs, they leak only 3 runs each and create pressure on Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan. On the other hand, the Pakistan duo aims for some boundaries in order to bring the momentum towards their side. 

    PAK 78/2 (17 overs)

  • 16:12 (IST)

    PAK vs NEP Live Score: Babar, Rizwan steady

    Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan are standing steady and bringing Pakistan back on track. The duo is smashing boundaries at regular intervals and creating pressure on Nepal bowlers. On the other hand, Nepal are desperately waiting to scalp the wickets of the duo. 

    PAK 65/2 (14 overs)

  • 16:06 (IST)

    PAK vs NEP Live: FOUR

    FOUR!!! After analyzing the game for a bit, Mohammad Rizwan smartly plays a shot on Lalit Rajbanshi’s delivery and steals a boundary. Rizwan brilliantly fires shot towards the short fine leg and gets four runs. Pakistan aim for more such boundaries. 

    PAK 56/2 (12 overs)

  • 15:57 (IST)

    Pakistan vs Nepal Live Score: Good over from Rajbanshi

    After delivering a no-ball and getting hit for a boundary on the free-hit, Nepal spinners makes a good comeback on the remaining five balls as he leaks only 1 more run. Nepal are desperately eyeing the wicket of Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan while Pakistan batters aim for some boundaries. 

    PAK 44/2 (10 overs)

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Toshakhana corruption case | Islamabad High Court suspends Imran Khan’s three-year sentence

The Islamabad High Court on August 29 suspended Imran Khan’s three-year sentence in the Toshakhana corruption case and ordered his release from jail, in a major relief to Pakistan’s embattled former Prime Minister ahead of the upcoming general elections.

A Division Bench comprising Islamabad High Court (IHC) Chief Justice Aamir Farooq and Justice Tariq Mehmood Jahangiri announced the much-anticipated verdict which was reserved on August 28.

“Decision of District Court [has been] suspended by IHC,” Mr. Khan’s party — Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) — said in a short WhatsApp message.

The court said that a copy of the judgment will be available shortly.

“The copy of the judgment will be available shortly … all we are saying now is that [Imran’s] request has been approved,” Justice Farooq said.

Aleema Khan, front centre, and Uzma Khanum, rear centre, sisters of Pakistan’s former Prime Minister Imran Khan arrive at the Islamabad High Court in Islamabad, Pakistan on August 29, 2023.
| Photo Credit:
AP

The Bench also ordered to release the 70-year-old leader on the production of surety bonds worth Pakistani rupees 100,000.

Mr. Khan’s legal counsel Naeem Haider Panjotha posted on X, formerly Twitter: “The CJ has accepted our request, suspended the sentence and said a detailed decision would be provided later.” Mr. Khan’s sentence has been suspended but he was not being released as a special court holding his trial in the Official Secrets Act directed the Attock Jail authorities to keep him in the “judicial lockup” and produce him on August 30 before the court in connection with the cipher case.

Former Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi is already in custody in the same case.

The case launched last week alleged that Khan and others were involved in the violation of the secret laws of the country.

The Bench reserved the verdict on August 28 after the rival lawyers concluded their arguments on the suspension of the conviction and three-year sentence handed down to Mr. Khan by Additional District and Session Judge, Islamabad, Humayun Dilawar on August 5 — a move that barred him from contesting general elections.

The former cricketer-turned-politician was sentenced on charges of unlawfully selling state gifts acquired by him and his family during his 2018-2022 tenure. He was also barred from politics for five years, preventing him from contesting an upcoming election.

Lawyers and supporters of Pakistani imprisoned former Prime Minister Imran Khan react after court decision, in Islamabad, Pakistan on August 29, 2023.

Lawyers and supporters of Pakistani imprisoned former Prime Minister Imran Khan react after court decision, in Islamabad, Pakistan on August 29, 2023.
| Photo Credit:
AP

General elections are scheduled to be held in Pakistan within 90 days after the dissolution of the National Assembly, which was prematurely dissolved on August 10 by President Arif Alvi. However, the polls are likely be delayed as the government has announced that the elections could take place only after a new census was completed and new constituency boundaries drawn.

The exercise could take about four months to complete and means that polls may be delayed till next year.

The government’s announcement had come on the same day when Mr. Khan was arrested after being sentenced to three years in prison for “corrupt practices”.

Mr. Khan challenged his conviction within days and the IHC began a formal hearing on August 22. It adjourned the case on Friday after the lawyer representing the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) did not appear due to illness.

Mr. Khan’s lawyer Latif Khosa completed his argument on Thursday, asserting that the verdict was given in haste and was full of shortcomings. He urged the court to set aside the sentence but the defence team demanded more time to complete its arguments.

His party welcomed the IHC verdict, with party Information Secretary Raoof Hasan saying that Mr. Khan’s arrest in any other case after the suspension of his sentence in the Toshakhana case would be “ill-intentioned and mala fide”.

We are fortunate to be witnessing the re-scripting of Pakistan’s political and legal history,” he said, adding that “justice shall prevail”.

However, former premier Shehbaz Sharif expressed its displeasure at the court’s order saying that the sentence was suspended and “not terminated”.

“The Chief Justice of Pakistan’s message of ’good to see you’ and ‘wish you good luck’ has reached the IHC,” he said, claiming that “everyone knew about the verdict before it was even announced”.

“This moment is a matter of concern for our justice system,” Mr. Shehbaz Sharif said. “If a clear message is received from the higher judiciary, what else should the subordinate court do?” Separately, a three-member Supreme Court Bench led by Chief Justice Umar Ata Bandial and comprising Justice Mazahar Ali Akbar Naqvi and Justice Jamal Khan Mandokhail is also set to resume hearing petitions against the Toshakhana case.

On Wednesday, the apex court after hearing various petitions against the Toshakhana case observed that there were “shortcomings” in the judgment of the sessions court.

The panel observed that the verdict was given in haste and without giving the right of defence to the accused. “Prima facie, there are shortcomings in the trial court verdict,” the Chief Justice said.

The apex court had also stated it would wait for the IHC hearing before giving its judgment. It resumed the hearing on Thursday but adjourned it without fixing any date after it was told that the IHC was holding a hearing.

The Toshakhana case was filed by ruling party lawmakers in 2022 in the ECP, alleging that Mr. Khan concealed the proceeds from the sale of state gifts.

The ECP first disqualified Mr. Khan and then filed a case of criminal proceedings in a sessions court which convicted him and subsequently, Khan was sent to jail.

Mr. Khan is currently in Attock Jail following his arrest from his Lahore home.

The case alleges that Mr. Khan had “deliberately concealed” details of the gifts he retained from the Toshakhana — a repository where presents handed to government officials from foreign officials are kept — during his time as the Prime Minister from 2018 to 2022 and proceeds from their reported sales.

As per Toshakhana rules, gifts/presents and other such materials received by persons to whom these rules apply shall be reported to the Cabinet Division.

According to reports, Mr. Khan received 58 gifts worth more than ₹140 million from world leaders during his three-and-a-half-year stint and retained all of them either by paying a negligible amount or even without any payment.

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At least 35 killed in blast at rally of pro-Taliban cleric’s party in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province

A powerful bomb ripped through a rally by supporters of a hard-line cleric and political leader in the country’s  A powerful blast triggered by a suicide bomber killed at least 44 people and injured nearly 100 others on Sunday, July 30, 2023, at a rally of a hardline Islamic party in a restive tribal district of Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province bordering Afghanistan.

The explosion took place at 4 p.m. at the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) workers’ convention in Khar, the capital of Bajaur tribal district.

At least 44 people were killed and nearly 100 injured in the blast, police sources said.

Saad Khan, the district emergency officer in the Bajaur region, said that Maulana Ziaullah Jan, JUI-F’s local leader, was also killed in the blast, one of the worst in recent years.

Rescue workers said they feared the number of casualties would rise.

Television footage showed panic-stricken people gathering at the site following the blast as ambulances arrived to move the injured to hospitals.

Over 500 people were attending the convention when the blast occurred.

DIG police Malakand Range Nasir Mehmud Satti said the initial investigation revealed it was a suicide blast. However, evidence is being collected to determine the nature of the blast.

An official of the Bomb Disposal Unit said the initial investigation report confirmed it was a suicide blast in which 12 kg explosives were used.

The area was sealed and a search operation has been initiated, he said.

No group has yet claimed responsibility for the deadly attack, which came after a brief lull.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif strongly condemned the blast at the JUI-F convention. He said terrorists targeted those who advocated the cause of Islam, the Holy Quran and Pakistan.

“Terrorists are enemies of Pakistan and they will be eliminated,” he said in a statement released by the Prime Minister’s Office.

Elements involved in the incident would be meted out with strict punishment, he said.

He also sought a report of the incident from Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah and the government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

President Arif Alvi prayed for eternal peace for the departed souls and commiserated with the bereaved families. He also wished speedy recovery for the injured and emphasised the timely provision of medical assistance to them.

Mr. Sanaullah vowed to bring the perpetrators of today’s attack to justice. “The cowardly acts of terrorists cannot dampen our spirits,” he posted on X, the social media platform previously known as Twitter.

The JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman demanded Prime Minister Sharif and the province’s caretaker Chief Minister Azam Khan to investigate the incident.

He also urged the party workers to reach the hospital and donate blood.

“JUI workers should remain peaceful and federal and provincial governments should provide the best treatment to the injured,” said Fazl.

Chief Minister Khan condemned the blast and sought a report from the district administration.

Police said that the injured have been shifted to a nearby hospital.

The condition of many injured people was stated to be critical.

JUI-F leader Hafiz Hamdullah said he was supposed to attend the convention today but could not because of some personal commitments.

“I strongly condemn the blast and want to give a message to the people behind it that this is not jihad but terrorism,” the JUI-F leader said, adding that it was an attack on humanity and Bajaur.

He demanded that the blast should be probed, recalling that this was not the first that the JUI-F had been targeted.

“This has happened before…our workers have been targeted. We raised our voice over this in the Parliament but no action was taken.” Hamdullah also extended his condolences to grieving families and urged the provincial government to provide the best medical facilities to the injured.

Caretaker Information minister of the province Jamal Feroze Shah said an emergency was declared in hospitals of Peshawar and Dir district.

The US extended its deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of those killed and injured in the suicide blast and vowed its support for Pakistan’s efforts in combating terrorism.

“Such acts of terror have no place in a peaceful and democratic society. We stand in solidarity with the people of Pakistan during this difficult time,” the US embassy in Islamabad said in a statement.

“We reiterate our commitment to supporting Pakistan’s efforts in combating terrorism and ensuring the safety and security of its citizens,” it added.

Pakistan has witnessed a surge in terrorist attacks following the Afghan Taliban’s return to power in August 2021 and called upon the interim rulers to take decisive actions against terrorists including the Tehrik-e Taliban Pakistan (TTP) responsible for cross-border attacks.

Meanwhile, Zabihullah Mujahid, a spokesman for the Taliban government in Afghanistan, has condemned the attack. TTP spokesman Khalid Khurrasani condemned the blast. In November last year, the TTP called off an indefinite ceasefire agreed with the federal government and ordered its militants to carry out attacks on Pakistan’s security forces.

On January 30, a Pakistan Taliban suicide bomber blew himself up during the afternoon prayers in a mosque in Peshawar, killing 101 people and injuring more than 200 others.

In February, heavily-armed TTP militants stormed the Karachi Police chief’s office in Pakistan’s most populous city, sparking gunfire that killed three rebels and four others, including two police constables.

The TTP was set up as an umbrella group of several militant outfits in 2007.

The outfit, which is believed to be close to Al-Qaeda, has been blamed for several deadly attacks across Pakistan, including an attack on army headquarters in 2009, assaults on military bases, and the 2008 bombing of the Marriott Hotel in Islamabad.

The TTP has also orchestrated the heinous Army Public School attack in Peshawar in 2014, in which over 130 students were killed.

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Pakistan approves projects worth billions of dollars to Gulf countries for investment purpose

In a major development, Pakistan has in principle approved 28 projects worth billions of dollars that would be offered to Gulf countries for investment with the long-term objective to reduce reliance on loans and imports.

The newly established Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) — a hybrid civil-military forum — is leading the drive to fast-track economic development to address the financial woes of the country.

The list of the approved projects suggests that if all the schemes are picked up by countries, including Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Bahrain, the quantum of investment under the SIFC banner can be greater than the $28 billion under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), The Express Tribune reported.

The approved schemes are in the food, agriculture, information technology, mines and minerals, petroleum and power sectors. They include cattle farms; the $10 billion Saudi Aramco refinery; explorations of copper and gold in Chagai; and the Thar Coal Rail connectivity scheme.

The initial project also includes the Diamer-Bhasha dam which has also been offered to China for investment under CPEC.

The CPEC is a collection of infrastructure and other projects under construction throughout Pakistan since 2013.

In order to give legal cover to the SIFC working, Parliament already approved a host of amendments to the Pakistan Army Act and the Board of Investment (BOI) Ordinance.

Amendments to the Election Act have also been introduced to ensure the continuity of work on these schemes during the tenure of the caretaker government.

These laws will provide fast-track execution of the initially approved 28 multi-billion dollar investment projects, besides ensuring immunity to the decision-makers from any kind of investigation by various anti-graft bodies.

Another law, the Pakistan Sovereign Wealth Fund, is also in the pipeline that will provide equity to the SIFC-approved projects for both joint ventures with foreign nations or single ownership schemes.

The assets of seven profitable state-owned entities, including blue-chip companies, are being transferred in the wealth fund for utilisation on the projects approved by the SIFC.

Pakistan has set up the SIFC for what Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif described as a move to “foster synergy between the federal and provincial governments to facilitate timely decision making; avoid duplication of efforts; enhance investor confidence, and ensure swift project implementation”.

The Express Tribune quoted sources as saying that the government had identified 23 countries for pitching these projects but the main focus would be on Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, and Bahrain.

Pakistan will issue priority visas to the citizens of these countries in an attempt to achieve swift execution of the schemes.

However, the challenge will be at the execution stage, as even the strategic projects, including the CPEC, could not fully materialise because of a host of issues including bureaucratic snags, Pakistan’s backtracking on its sovereign commitments to China, and its indecisiveness about geopolitical alignments.

Islamabad and Beijing had planned a total $62 billion investment under CPEC but so far, less than a sum of $28 billion has been materialised.

Pakistan narrowly avoided a sovereign default last month after the Prime Minister as well as the military establishment took economic decisions in their own hands and reached a new $3 billion deal with the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

The civil-military leadership has now planned to jointly run the economy aimed at attracting investment from the Gulf countries to enhance Pakistan’s non-debt inflows and reduce reliance on imports.

The sources said the majority of these projects would be executed on a government-to-government basis. Some of them could be offered for international competitive bidding, they added.

The apex committee of the SIFC approved a project for corporate farming on 10,000 acres in the Cholistan desert that will be later extended to 85,000 acres. The sources said Qatar was interested in this farm to meet its food security needs.

The SIFC’s apex body also approved the setting up of a dairy company holding 20,000 Holstein Friesian animals (an international breed of dairy cattle) and the number of farms could be extended to five or more, according to the decision.

It also endorsed the establishment of a corporate feedlot farm of 30,000 animals that could also be extended to five or more.

Similarly, the SIFC gave the nod to the establishment of a corporate camel farm of 10,000 animals that could also be extended to five or more.

The SIFC has given the nod to the Chiniot Iron Ore project, the Barite-Lead-Zinc project, and the explorations of copper and gold in Chagai as well as lead and zinc in Khuzdar.

The SIFC approved a Saudi Aramco oil refinery costing $10 billion and the TAPI Gas Pipeline Project for investment under its umbrella.

The sources continued that the SIFC had approved the setting up of technology zones, a project for investment in the optical fibre network, the establishment of Cloud infrastructure and a semiconductor designer, manufacturing of smart devices, a global skill hub scheme and various centres of excellence.

Some major projects in the power sector have been identified for sharing with the Gulf countries for investment purposes. These included the multibillion-dollar Diamer-Bhasha Dam and Thar Coal Block II. The Solar PV Project at the locations of Layyah and Jhang have also been endorsed.

Similarly, a hydropower project at Rajdhani, two transmission Lines from Ghazi Barotha to Faisalabad and Matiari to Rahim Yar Khan have also been approved by the SIFC. A Reactive Power Compensation Devices project and battery storage for frequency regulation were also part of the plan, said the sources.

The SIFC also gave the nod to conducting a feasibility study on a project for construction of a water reservoir for excess flood water for irrigation in Cholistan and it sought a progress report on Chashma Right Bank Canal Project, according to The Express Tribune.

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Explained | The calm after the storm for Pakistan?

A boy rides past a paramilitary check post, that was set afire by the supporters of Imran Khan, during a protest against his arrest, in Karachi, Pakistan on May 9.
| Photo Credit: REUTERS

The story so far: Over the last 15 months, Pakistan faced a myriad of challenges, including confrontations between the government and the opposition, disagreements between the Parliament and the judiciary, instability in Punjab, clashes between the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party and the Establishment (Pakistan army), an economic meltdown, and the devastating impact of the 2022 floods. Even by Pakistan’s standards, the situation was tumultuous, with fears of a debt default and a military takeover looming on the horizon. However, a few developments in June across political, military and economic sectors suggest a semblance of normalcy returning to Pakistan.

What was the legislative development?

During the last week of June, the Parliament passed the Elections (Amendment) Act 2023, providing the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) the sole responsibility of deciding when to conduct elections. Now the ECP decides the next election date, instead of the President as was previously the case. In March 2023, the President, who was appointed by former Pakistan Prime Minister and PTI chief Imran Khan, announced the election date for the Punjab provincial assembly without consulting the Parliament. The Supreme Court supported this decision, which created a conflict between the court and the Parliament, leading to political instability. The situation played right into Mr. Khan’s hands.

However, the new legislation would inevitably result in the ECP announcing the election dates for the national and provincial assemblies at a later date during 2023. This aligns with the ruling Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) coalition. A delayed election would suit the Pakistan Muslim League (N) (PML-N) and the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), something that Mr. Khan was totally opposed to.

The new legislation also means that self-exiled former Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif can return and contest the forthcoming elections. A primary reason for PTI to insist on early elections and the PML-N to refuse it, is related to this reason. Mr. Khan believed that the existing situation favoured him in Punjab. But if Mr. Sharif is to return, and the elections get delayed, then the Sharifs would hold an edge in Punjab (and thereby also at the national level). It is now looking like an advantage for the PML-N.

What has the military done?

After the violence on May 9, where following the arrest of Mr. Khan on charges of corruption, protests by his supporters and party members quickly turned into out-of-control riots, the Establishment had come down heavily on Mr. Khan and the PTI. The June 26 address by the Inter-Services Public Relations Director General (DG-ISPR), wherein he called the May 9 incident as a ‘black chapter of Pakistan’s history’, was a part of the Establishment’s counter-attack, including taking action against those who failed to act on May 9.

Since the violence, the Establishment has taken direct action besides covert pressure. The formation of military courts to punish the perpetrators of the May 9 incident has been one part of the story. The other part is the systematic covert targeting of the PTI; leaders who were a part of Imran Khan’s close circuit and his cabinet ended up getting arrested repeatedly during May, ultimately yielding to the pressure from the Establishment. From Parvez Khattak to Shireen Mazari, many leaders who were close to Mr. Khan and formed the backbone of the PTI left the party. Jahangir Tareen, once a close aide of Mr. Khan, has even formed a new party — the Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party (IPP). Thus, the Establishment successfully built a new narrative that the perpetrators behind the May 9 violence were the worst enemies of Pakistan.

Mr. Khan is now isolated and the PTI is weak with a series of desertions. Pakistan is less likely to witness the confrontational politics that Mr. Khan led during the last year. Many in Pakistan consider that it is game over for him, at least for the forthcoming elections.

Has the IMF agreed to help?

When June began, Pakistan was facing an economic meltdown and a threat of default, facing severe inflation and a foreign reserve that could sustain only for a few more months. Despite multiple review meetings with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), there was no sign of a deal. An earlier IMF programme under the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) was to end by June 30.

Despite numerous political bravados and expectations of “friendly countries” helping Pakistan to meet the economic crisis, Pakistan had to go back to the IMF with new estimates. On June 24, Ishaq Dar, Pakistan’s Finance Minister, announced new measures that would generate new taxes and cut government spending. The revised estimates of June aimed at lowering the original fiscal deficit target by 6.5% of the budget.

A series of high-level meetings (between the Pakistan Prime Minister and the IMF Managing Director) in June, and importantly, IMF conditions-mandated budget revisions have resolved the differences. According to the latest IMF press release, the new Stand-By-Arrangement (SBA) for $3 billion would “provide a policy anchor and a framework for financial support from multilateral and bilateral partners in the period ahead.” This would mean the IMF deal would open other donor opportunities for Pakistan. Finally, Pakistan can breathe as the threat of an immediate default has now been averted.

What about the Supreme Court?

In September 2023, Pakistan’s Supreme Court will see Justice Qazi Faez Isa becoming the next Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP). He would replace the present CJP Justice Umar Ata Bandial, whose term has been highly controversial vis-à-vis his suo motu cases, actions against the present government and also his decisions within the judiciary. The government was unhappy with him. With his retirement in September 2023, and Justice Isa being the new CJP, the present government should able to breathe better.

Is the crisis over for Pakistan?

Not yet. On the political front, the fall of the PTI chairman may provide temporary relief to the ruling PDM. But the reasons behind his fall show the larger political problems plaguing Pakistan. The political instability has come to an end, not through a dialogue between political actors, but by the brutal downsizing of one party, by an extra-political institution. This has been Pakistan’s problem for the last seven decades. The PPP and the PML-N are on the same page now; with Mr. Khan gone, will they remain so?

On the economic front, Pakistan has succeeded in getting IMF aid. But the larger issues remain such as the need for macro-economic reforms, the prevailing narrow tax base etc. While Pakistan has been forced by the IMF to make adjustments, the change has to come from within. Pakistan has received temporary relief in both economic and political aspects, but only the symptoms have been addressed. The underlying causes remain unresolved.

D. Suba Chandran is Professor and Dean at the School of Conflict and Security Studies, NIAS, Bengaluru

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Football, family and hope: The Qasimi family’s journey from Quetta to Cranbourne West

Teenager Mohammad Qasimi was at home looking after his sister Malikah.

It was just the two of them.

The rest of his family – his mother, Azizah, and two other sisters, Faziea and Setarah – had gone to the market to celebrate Eid; Ramadan was over, and it was time for two million Hazara Town people to feast, sing, shop, talk, smile… laugh… and be as happy as Hazaras can be in a country that is not theirs.

Mohammad was not angry about being excluded from the street joy; he was watching television, which was a treat because their house didn’t always have a TV.

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