Author: News Desk

  • 14 India-linked terrorists killed in Khuzdar op

    14 India-linked terrorists killed in Khuzdar op

    At least 14 terrorists linked to Indian proxy Fitna al-Hindustan were killed during an operation in the Zehri area of Balochistan’s Khuzdar, reports quoting security sources said Saturday.

    According to reports, the operation was carried out on intelligence regarding the presence of said terrorists in the area, resulting in the killing of at least 14 whereas 20 others were injured.

    Residents of Zehri praised the operation, acknowledging the efforts of the security forces in restoring peace and stability in the region.

    Reports said that security forces remained fully committed to eliminating the remaining militants of the organisation. 

    The Zehri operation comes days after security forces killed seven India-sponsored terrorists in an intelligence-based operation (IBO) conducted in the Sherani district of Balochistan.

    According to the military’s media wing, security forces conducted an IBO on the reported presence of terrorists belonging to Indian proxy Fitna al Khwarij — the outlawed Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).

    “During the operation, own troops effectively engaged the terrorists’ location, and after an intense fire exchange, seven Indian-sponsored terrorists were sent to hell,” the military said in a statement.

    Pakistan has witnessed an alarming 46% surge in overall violence in the third quarter (Q3) of 2025, data from the Centre for Research and Security Studies (CRSS) has shown.

    The country reported at least 901 fatalities and 599 injuries, including civilians, security personnel and terrorists, in a total of 329 incidents of violence, which also included terror attacks and counter-terror ops.

  • Rohit Sharma removed; Shubman Gill takes over as India’s new ODI captain

    Rohit Sharma removed; Shubman Gill takes over as India’s new ODI captain

    The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has appointed Shubman Gill as the new captain of India’s ODI team, replacing Rohit Sharma ahead of the upcoming series against Australia starting October 19.

    Gill, 26, now leads India in both Tests and ODIs and serves as vice-captain in T20Is, marking a major step in his rise as a multi-format leader. The decision reflects the board’s long-term plan to build a side for the 2027 World Cup, which will be hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia.

    Rohit Sharma’s captaincy had been under review for months, especially after his retirement from Tests and T20Is. Since taking charge in December 2021, he led India in 56 ODIs, winning 42 of them and guiding the team to Asia Cup titles in 2018 and 2023. His most recent success came in March 2025, when India won the ICC Champions Trophy.

    Rohit will continue as a senior batter in the squad. Both he and Virat Kohli are set to return to action in the Australia series after a seven-month break from international cricket.

    Gill has captained India in 11 matches before, but the upcoming series marks his first as a full-time ODI captain. India’s tour of Australia includes three ODIs on October 19, 23, and 25, followed by five T20Is from October 29 to November 8.

  • A tale of two proposals; Gohar Rasheed, Kubra Khan’s wedding was a long time in the making

    A tale of two proposals; Gohar Rasheed, Kubra Khan’s wedding was a long time in the making

    Actor Gohar Rasheed has shared that tying the knot in the holy city of Makkah was a long-held wish for both him and his wife, actress Kubra Khan.

    In a candid recent interview, Gohar shared the story behind their union, saying that the idea of a Makkah wedding had been a mutual but coincidental desire, discussed casually when they were still just friends.

    “Both of us had thought about it on our own,” he recalled. “I had imagined that whenever I get married, it would be in Makkah. Kubra had the same thought independently. We had mentioned it to each other once, just as friends, saying that whenever either of us gets married, it should be there.”

    He laughed as he remembered the moment they realized their shared dream would become a reality with each other. “So when it was finally our wedding, we said, let’s do it in Makkah.”

    Reflecting on life after marriage, Gohar spoke about the peace and clarity it has brought. “There’s a reason why marriage is considered a beloved act in the eyes of Allah,” he said. “It filters out unnecessary distractions. When you’re single, there are a million pointless people around you, but after marriage, they just disappear. It’s like Allah clears the path and leaves behind only the genuine ones.”

    The Maula Jatt actor also opened up about proposing to Kubra, not once, but twice. “She said no the first time,” he admitted. “Of course, it hurt, but I respected her decision. When I proposed again, she said yes. And that’s when everything started falling into place.”

    Now 40, Gohar emphasized that age should not dictate when one marries, wisdom and readiness should. He encouraged people to prioritise personal and professional growth before stepping into marriage.

    “Marriage should come when you’re emotionally and mentally prepared, not when society expects it,” he advised. “Otherwise, it leads to frustration and blame.”

    The actor described their Makkah ceremony as deeply spiritual and serene, attended only by close friends and family. Following the nikkah in February 2025, in Saudi Arabia, the couple hosted grand wedding celebrations in Pakistan.

  • Andy Pycroft removed from Pak-South Africa series after Asia Cup controversy

    Andy Pycroft removed from Pak-South Africa series after Asia Cup controversy

    The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced the names of match officials for Pakistan’s upcoming home series against South Africa, with one notable exception. Zimbabwe’s Andy Pycroft has been removed from the panel following a recent controversy.

    Pycroft was initially named as match referee for the series, which runs from 12 October to 8 November, but Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) raised a formal objection to his inclusion. According to reports, the PCB’s decision came after Pycroft’s conduct during the 2025 Asia Cup, where he allegedly instructed Pakistan’s Salman Ali Agha not to greet India’s Suryakumar Yadav.

    Although Pycroft later apologised, Pakistani authorities reportedly denied him entry for the upcoming series.


    Sri Lanka’s Ranjan Madugalle will serve as the match referee now, bringing experience and credibility to the high-profile contest.

    The series includes two Tests, three T20Is, and three ODIs, which are part of Pakistan’s World Test Championship campaign and preparations for next year’s global events. Matches will take place in Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Faisalabad.

  • Mira Sethi rejected a role in Main Manto Nahi Hoon because of Khalil Ur Rehman Qamar

    Mira Sethi rejected a role in Main Manto Nahi Hoon because of Khalil Ur Rehman Qamar

    Mira Sethi, who never shies away from taking a strong stance on feminism, has shared that she rejected a role in the highly talked-about drama Main Manto Nahi Hoon because of its infamous writer Khalil-ur-Rehman Qamar.

    Qamar is widely known for his controversial and often regressive views about women. His conservative and, at times, disrespectful portrayal of women in scripts has often sparked criticism across the board, especially from progressive voices in the industry. Mira Sethi is among those who strongly disagree with his ideology.

    In a recent conversation, Sethi revealed that she had been offered a significant role in the drama, the one now being portrayed by Sanam Saeed. “I was offered a role which now is being played by Sanam Saeed. I was so tempted because it would have been Humayun Saeed, Sajal Aly and myself and I have worked with Sajal before in Kuch Ankahi. But because of the writer of the show, I just thought to myself if I go on and do this role, despite speaking out so much about feminism, what’s the point? The writer says very strange and troubling things about women. And I was very tempted to do the drama. Even some of my very progressive friends told me, ‘Just do it quietly.’ But I said no, I didn’t do it,” she said.

    She went on to share that she is currently working on other projects. “I am doing a drama with Mehreen Jabbar, and it will be televised in November. It is hard to say no because then you miss out on opportunities,” Sethi added during a women’s rights event.

    When asked whether she fears being “cancelled” for taking a stand, Sethi responded: “I think people are tired now, and I think they know who I am. I wrote a book called ‘Are You Enjoying,’ and there’s a line in it that says, ‘Television is a way of enhancing the inner truth of the host.’ I’m not a host, but there are certain vibes of a person, people get what you stand for. Maybe they’ll come for me again. What should I do then? I’ll see.”

    Main Manto Nahi Hoon is the talk of the town with a script penned by Qamar and stellar cast including Humayun (Manto) and Sajal (Mehmal). Sanam Saeed plays a pivotal role in the series, which has gained significant attention for its intense storyline and powerful performances, as well as the ongoing debate surrounding its controversial writing and plot.

  • Abrar Ahmed reportedly set to tie the knot

    Abrar Ahmed reportedly set to tie the knot

    Rumors are swirling that Pakistani leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed is all set to tie the knot.

    According to several media reports and social media posts, a mehndi ceremony was held last night for the 27-year-old cricketer.

    Abrar also shared a photo on Instagram wearing a green shalwar kameez, further fueling speculation about his wedding.

    Reports claim that Abrar’s nikah has already taken place, and he will be bringing his bride home today in Karachi, while the walima ceremony is scheduled for October 6.

    Abrar, who’s about to begin a new chapter in his life, grabbed attention during the Asia Cup 2025 when he and Sri Lankan spinner Wanindu Hasaranga celebrated wickets by mimicking each other’s signature styles. The lighthearted exchange continued after the match as the two were seen sharing smiles and a friendly handshake.

    Abrar Ahmed is part of Pakistan’s squad for the upcoming Test series against South Africa, starting October 12.

    Abrar first appeared in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) in 2017, representing Karachi Kings, and made his Test debut against England in 2022, where he made an instant impact by taking seven wickets in his very first match.

  • Made in Pakistan: FIFA unveils ‘Trionda,’ the official ball for 2026 World Cup

    Made in Pakistan: FIFA unveils ‘Trionda,’ the official ball for 2026 World Cup

    FIFA has unveiled Trionda, the official match ball for the 2026 World Cup, and it has been proudly manufactured in Sialkot, Pakistan by Forward Sports. 

    Designed by Adidas, the ball represents the unity of the three host nations: Canada, Mexico, and the United States.

    The achievement marks another milestone for Sialkot, which continues its remarkable legacy of producing official FIFA World Cup balls for 2014, 2018, 2022, and now 2026, solidifying Pakistan’s reputation for sporting excellence on the global stage.

    The name Trionda, meaning “three waves” in Spanish, reflects the collaboration between the host countries. Its red, green, and blue color scheme draws inspiration from their national colors, while gold details represent the FIFA World Cup Trophy. The design also includes a maple leaf for Canada, an eagle for Mexico, and a star for the United States.

    Built with a new four-panel structure, Trionda offers greater flight stability and grip in all weather conditions. It also features advanced technology, including a 500Hz motion sensor chip that records every movement of the ball. This data will connect directly to the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system to improve officiating precision, especially for offside calls.

    The 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States, and expanded to 48 teams, will be the largest in history.

  • VIDEO: Pakistani journalist trolls Arnab Goswami on his Republic TV show

    VIDEO: Pakistani journalist trolls Arnab Goswami on his Republic TV show

    Pakistani journalist Haider Hayat Khan on Friday trolled Indian anchor Arnab Goswami for claiming he had “detailed intelligence reports of destruction caused by Indian forces in Pakistan” during May’s military clashes between the two neighbours.

    “I have seen the technical evidence. I get everything from national security sources… that how many radar systems, command control structures, hangars, runways, fighter jets and F-16s were destroyed,” Goswami said while furthering the Indian narrative repeatedly rejected by Pakistan on the global stage.

    The claims did not sit well with Khan, who interrupted Goswami by trolling him over the credibility of the firebrand anchor’s sources. “Are these the same sources of yours who claimed Pakistanis were sitting on the fifth floor of Serene [Hotel] in Kabul?” he asked.

    The question was in reference to Goswami’s 2021 faux pas when had claimed that Pakistani army officers were staying on the fifth floor of the luxury Serena Hotel in Kabul to support the Taliban in their fight against resistance fighters in Panjshir.

    The anchor, who is notorious for his war-mongering and aggressive journalism that supports the interests of India’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), had been left red-faced as it emerged the Serena Hotel in Kabul only had two floors — not five.

    “These intelligence sources reporting to your army and air chiefs must be the same as the same as the ones who reported Pakistani officials’ presence on the fifth floor of Serene in Kabul,” Khan said, leading to an unintelligible war of words between the two.

    Khan went on to say that he had “only saved time of Goswami’s audience” by telling them the sources claiming damage to Pakistani defence structures were the same as the ones who reported that Pakistani defence personnel were present on a non-existent floor of the hotel in Kabul.

    Both Pakistan and India maintain heavy losses on either side as a result of the military clashes that took place in May this year. Pakistan claims to have downed at least six Indian fighter jets – a claim independently verified by neutral foreign observers – whereas India claims to have inflicted heavy damage to military establishments in Pakistan.

    New Delhi’s claims, however, have repeatedly been rejected by Islamabad as well as several other countries, in the absence of any evidence to support the same.

  • Lahore in NYC: Doja Cat spotted with Pakistani brand Warp’s bag

    Lahore in NYC: Doja Cat spotted with Pakistani brand Warp’s bag

    Doja Cat is known not just for her singing but also for her unique styling and bold fashion choices, and recently, the singer chose a Pakistani brand to complete her look.

    While promoting her new album Vie at a YouTube Music listening party in New York City, the artist was seen carrying a striking yellow Hexella Baguette bag from Warp, a contemporary leather brand based in Lahore.

    Warp quickly shared images from the event, proudly showcasing their sleek, luminous accessory on the global stage. Doja Cat now joins a growing list of international celebrities embracing Warp’s innovative designs.

    Oscar-winner Lupita Nyong’o carried the brand’s Cloud bag during a press event for A Quiet Place, while actress Nava Mau sported the Hexella Petite for her Baby Reindeer media tour.

    Pakistani-Canadian Ms. Marvel star Iman Vellani was spotted with a Hexella bag at the Gold Gala in Los Angeles. Pakistani celebrities including Mawra Hocane, Ayeza Khan, and Meesha Shafi have also been seen with pieces from Warp’s collections, ranging from Doha appearances to Ramazan TV specials.

    Warp, founded in 2015 by LUMS graduate Hirra Babar, blends contemporary, abstract aesthetics with traditional leather craftsmanship to create minimalist, statement accessories. Known for its non-traditional designs, the brand aims to reflect the voice of the “modern woman.”

    This moment marks another proud achievement for Pakistani fashion on the global stage. Warp follows in the footsteps of designer Zain Ahmed’s label Rastah, which has previously been featured in Vogue and worn by stars like Justin Bieber, French Montana and Riz Ahmed.

  • India dreams of hosting Olympics while stray dogs attack foreign coaches at World Para Athletics

    India dreams of hosting Olympics while stray dogs attack foreign coaches at World Para Athletics

    India’s ambition to host the Olympics took a hit this week after stray dogs attacked two foreign coaches during the ongoing World Para Athletics Championships in New Delhi on Friday. 

    The incident has sparked global embarrassment and raised serious questions about safety at international sporting events.

    The attack happened on Friday at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, where Japanese coach Meiko Okumatsu and Kenyan coach Dennis Maragia were training athletes on the practice track. Both were bitten and injured by stray dogs. They received first aid at the stadium’s medical room before being taken to Safdarjung Hospital for treatment and later returned to their hotels.

    According to Indian media reports, this was the fifth dog attack since the championship began. Earlier incidents involved a security guard and two Indian nationals, further highlighting the dire situation around major sports venues.

    The Organising Committee said it had requested the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) in August to clear stray dogs from the venue. Dog-catching vehicles were stationed at the stadium from the beginning of the event, but despite these efforts, locals feeding the animals nearby allowed them to return. The committee said this negligence led to the October 3 attack on the two coaches.

    The problem of stray dogs in Delhi has become a national concern. In August 2024, the Indian Supreme Court ordered that all stray dogs be placed in shelters, but the decision triggered protests from animal welfare groups. 

    The court later revised its ruling, directing that stray dogs should instead be sterilised, vaccinated, and released, while only aggressive or rabid dogs should remain in shelters.

    As India promotes its vision of hosting future Olympic Games, the recurring dog attacks during a world event have become a stark reminder that the country’s infrastructure and management still face serious challenges, even before reaching the global stage.