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Author: News Desk

  • Mike Hesson shares plan for Babar, Rizwan in T20Is

    Mike Hesson shares plan for Babar, Rizwan in T20Is

    Pakistan’s newly appointed head coach, Mike Hesson, is reportedly in favour of bringing back Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan to the national T20I squad.

    According to ASports, Hesson views both batters as crucial to Pakistan’s plans for the 2025 Asia Cup and the 2026 T20 World Cup. This comes after earlier speculation that the two players might be dropped from the T20I setup, raising doubts about their future in the shortest format.

    Babar and Rizwan were notably absent from the T20I series against New Zealand earlier this year, with selectors opting to test younger talent. Rizwan, who briefly captained the T20I side in two series, was also replaced, with Agha Salman appointed the new skipper.

    However, Hesson is now advocating for experience to return with a refreshed approach. According to reports, he recently met with selector Aqib Javed at the PCB headquarters to discuss team composition and the role senior players could play in upcoming tournaments.

    While Hesson still considers both Babar and Rizwan to be “match-winners,” he has also expressed his expectation from them to adapt a modern T20 approach, including boosting their strike rates and playing with more intent and aggression.

    The upcoming T20I series against Bangladesh, scheduled to take place this month in Faisalabad and Lahore, is expected to feature new faces. However, long-term planning involves a mix of seasoned players and new talent.

    Earlier, reports indicated that the PCB was prepared to move on without Babar and Rizwan, with both players likely to be dropped from the T20I setup altogether.

  • FACT CHECK: Has State Bank banned currency notes with writing, pen marks?

    FACT CHECK: Has State Bank banned currency notes with writing, pen marks?

    The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has denied reports claiming an official ban on currency notes bearing pen marks or handwriting will take effect from July 1.

    Several reports on Thursday alleged that the SBP had issued a notification stating that any notes with handwriting or pen marks would no longer be accepted as legal tender after June 30. These reports also claimed that the public was being urged to deposit such notes in banks before the end of June.

    However, in conversation with The Current, an SBP spokesperson categorically rejected the claim. “State Bank has not issued any such statement. This false news was posted on social media about 16 hours ago by an individual and has no basis in fact.”

    The SBP official also urged media outlets to verify such claims before publishing.

    “The public is advised to rely solely on official SBP sources for any announcements about currency regulations,” they added.

  • US defence analyst rejects Indian claims of downing Pakistani jets

    US defence analyst rejects Indian claims of downing Pakistani jets

    US defence expert Dr C. Christine Fair has dismissed recent claims made by India regarding alleged damage to Pakistani military aircraft, labelling the statements as unfounded and lacking in evidence.

    In an interview with Indian journalist Karan Thapar on The Interview with Karan Thapar on The Wire, Dr Fair addressed comments made by Air Marshal Sandeep Singh Bharti, Director General of Air Operations for the Indian Air Force. Air Marshal Bharti had alleged that India had downed several Pakistani jets and that satellite imagery showed significant damage to airbases in Chaklala, Rahim Yar Khan, Sargodha, Jacobabad, and Bholari.

    Dr Fair, known for her critical stance on Pakistan’s military and political establishment, disputed these claims. She pointed out that there is no verifiable evidence supporting India’s assertions, particularly the claim that 20% of Pakistan’s air force had been rendered inoperable.

    “I find the claim that 20% of Pakistan’s air force has been disabled to be astonishing and decidedly untrue. I’ve never encountered such a statement before,” she told Thapar.

    When questioned directly about Bharti’s assertion regarding the downing of Pakistani aircraft, Dr Fair described the claim as “bakwas” (nonsense). She reiterated that there is no credible evidence to support the allegation that any Pakistani jets were shot down during the incident in question.

    These claims were made amid escalating tensions between the two countries, alongside widespread speculation on social media about potential Pakistani military losses. References to satellite images and alleged airbase damage fuelled the discourse, prompting analysts and journalists to seek expert insights.

    Dr Fair’s dismissal of these claims has drawn attention, particularly given her longstanding criticism of Pakistan. Her remarks, diverging from her usual views, have sparked widespread discussion online, with many viewing her stance as adding weight to the rebuttal.

    To date, no independent sources have provided official verification or evidence to substantiate the claims made by the Indian Air Force against Pakistan following the April 22 Pahalgam incident.

  • Pak-India clashes: Chahat Fateh Ali Khan drops ‘Aye Mere Watan, Mere Chaman’

    Pak-India clashes: Chahat Fateh Ali Khan drops ‘Aye Mere Watan, Mere Chaman’

    Entertainer and self-proclaimed singer Chahat Fateh Ali Khan has released a patriotic song after the recent four-day conflict between Pakistan and India from May 6 to 10.

    Following the successes of the Pakistan Army against Indian aggression that resulted in civilian casualties, several artists released patriotic tracks, including Atif Aslam and Abrar-ul-Haq. Now, Chahat Fateh Ali Khan has joined them with his own release to express love for the homeland and support for the armed forces.

    Titled Aye Mere Watan, Mere Chaman, the video features footage of military training and operations playing in the background, while Chahat passionately chants slogans like “Pak Army Zindabad” to show his support.

    Released on 14 May, the video quickly went viral. As usual, social media users flooded the comments section with mixed reactions – some serious, many sarcastic.

    One user asked, “Where were you during the war between Pakistan and India?”

     Others mocked the production quality, with one comment reading, “It feels like cartoons have started.”

    The Army launched Operation Bunyan-ul-Marsoos and Ma’arka-i-Haq (Battle of Truth) in response to Indian aggression, successfully carrying out strikes on multiple locations in India and destroying parts of its defence system.

  • Australian broadcaster calls out Indian officials for evading tough questions on Pak conflict

    Australian broadcaster calls out Indian officials for evading tough questions on Pak conflict

    Australian Broadcaster Yalda Hakim has criticized Indian officials for evading questions in media interviews, comparing them unfavourably with their Pakistani counterparts who, she claims, are more open to facing the camera even during tense situations.

    In a recent appearance on CNN-News18 with anchor Zakka Jacob, Hakim shared her experiences interviewing officials from India and Pakistan. Noting her recent televised discussions with officials amidst escalating Indo-Pak tensions, she remarked, “We typically don’t hear Indian officials addressing these matters—not only during moments of heightened tension but at other times too. To be fair to Pakistan, they are willing to send their defense minister or interior minister to face the cameras, regardless of how the interviews unfold, to tackle accusations, answer tough questions, and engage with the dialogue.”

    Hakim suggested that this may indicate a broader cultural difference concerning media openness between the two nations.

    Her comments followed a series of interviews she conducted with Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar, and BJP spokesperson Jaiveer Shergill. These interviews were held during a period of increasing tensions between India and Pakistan. Hakim’s interview with Khawaja Asif stirred criticism on social media, where some users felt her tone resembled an interrogation. One comment read, “I suggest people check out the entire interview on YouTube. It was nothing short of an interrogation on live TV by this Afghanistan-born Australian anchor.”

    Following the interview, Pakistani users also found old photos of Hakim with BJP spokesperson Jaiveer Shergill, posting them on X with accusations of bias. One widely shared post stated: “Sky News aired false claims about Pakistan. Yalda Hakim (@SkyYaldaHakim) allowed her Indian guests, whom she often socializes with, to spread misinformation and target Pakistan in front of British & international audience. Why is @SkyNews being used for these friendly, fixed matches?”

    The differing reactions were prominently noted by viewers online, many of whom commended Hakim’s recent statements. A user remarked, “Even though she has shown bias from the beginning, hearing these words from her? She deserves praise.” Another commented, “Is this even real? It’s astonishing to see her articulate such a clear statement.”


    However, some users questioned Hakim’s motives. One comment stated, “She is known to be one of the strongest anti-Pakistan voices, but after losing her credibility when many pointed out her bias, she’s now attempting to clear her image.” Others pushed back, saying, “She really seems unbiased now.”

  • Indian Supreme Court sets free rapist after he proposes marriage to survivor in court

    Indian Supreme Court sets free rapist after he proposes marriage to survivor in court

    The Supreme Court of India on May 15 suspended the 10-year prison sentence of a man convicted of rape, after he proposed marriage to the survivor during a court hearing. The case, which originated in Madhya Pradesh, involves allegations of repeated sexual assault over several years under the pretext of marriage.

    The man was convicted under Section 376(2)(n) of the Indian Penal Code for repeated rape, and Section 417 for deception. The survivor filed a First Information Report (FIR) in 2021, alleging that the accused had assaulted her multiple times since 2016, after the two connected on Facebook.

    She claimed he had repeatedly promised to marry her, only to withdraw later, citing family pressure.

    A trial court sentenced him to 10 years in prison in 2024, a decision subsequently upheld by the Madhya Pradesh High Court.

    During the Supreme Court session, the man proposed to the survivor in court. Justices BV Nagarathna and Satish Chandra Sharma, after private consultations with both parties and their families, supported the proposal.

    The two exchanged flowers in a symbolic gesture, after which the Court suspended the man’s sentence and granted him bail.

    His release was made conditional on terms set by the Sessions Court in Madhya Pradesh.

    The case has been adjourned until July 25, with the Court noting that both families would make arrangements for the marriage.


    Justice Nagarathna stated that both parties had expressed a mutual intention to marry.

    The decision has sparked widespread debate online, with many users expressing alarm over the legal and ethical implications.

    One Facebook comment read,  “Completely manipulative. You can’t establish strong matrimonial bonds on the foundation of abuse. He was an abuser and will continue to be one. What a tragedy.”

    Another user remarked, “What a disgrace. The system has just offered him a second chance without any accountability.”

  • Youm-e-Tashakkur today to honour military for decisive response against Indian aggression

    Youm-e-Tashakkur today to honour military for decisive response against Indian aggression

    Pakistan celebrated Youm-e-Tashakkur on Friday to honor the military for its strong response to Indian aggression earlier this month and to mark the success of Operation Bunyan-ul-Marsoos.


    The day began with Quran Khawani and special prayers in mosques nationwide. A 31-gun salute was presented in the federal capital, while 21-gun salutes were held in all four provincial capitals. 

    Floral wreaths were laid at memorials of martyrs, and guard-changing ceremonies were held at Mazar-e-Quaid and Mazar-e-Iqbal.

     
    Across the nation, flag-hoisting ceremonies were held. Friday sermons also included special prayers for the stability, security, and peace of the nation.

    Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will be the chief guest at a central event that is set for Friday night at the Pakistan Monument in Islamabad. 

    The leaders of the armed forces and the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee are also anticipated to be there. President Asif Ali Zardari, in his message, said Pakistan would never compromise on its sovereignty, geographical integrity, or core national interests. “We will respond with full force to any aggression against the homeland,” he said. 

    He added:

    “It is a great moment for us to celebrate the success of Operation Bunyan-ul-Marsoos in response to Indian unprovoked aggression. I am grateful to Almighty Allah for blessing us with victory in this critical hour.”

    Paying tribute to the military, he said:

    “I pay tribute to the valiant soldiers of the Pakistan armed forces and the entire military leadership, especially the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, the Chief of Army Staff, the Chief of Air Staff, and the Chief of Naval Staff. This victory not only belongs to Pakistan’s armed forces but also to the entire Pakistani nation, who stood like Bunyan-ul-Marsoos (fortified wall) against the enemy aggression.”

    Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also addressed the nation on Youm-e-Tashakkur, saying: 

    “Today, Youm-e-Tashakur is being observed across the country to thank Allah Almighty for the magnificent success and victory of Pakistan against the open aggression and provocation of India.”

    “During the midnight of May 6 and May 7, India while acting cowardly attacked Pakistan resulting in the martyrdom of innocent Pakistani citizens and we were forced to respond for the sake of these innocent citizens.”


    He said the world saw that in just few hours an enemy which was many times bigger came to its knees and the planes which were pride of India turned into ashes and became sign of a bitter lesson. 

    He continued: “Our Shaheens hammered the enemy and gave it a befitting reply. The brave and professional armed forces of Pakistan effectively and fully responded in the language of the enemy and wrote a golden chapter in the military history and foiled the designs of the enemy.”


    He also acknowledged Air Chief Zaheer Babar Sidhu and Naval Chief Admiral Naveed Ashraf for their role in securing Pakistan’s frontiers, and appreciated the political leadership of the country for displaying unity. 


    He expressed gratitude to all political leaders, the parliament, and the opposition and allied parties for their historic solidarity and exemplary solidarity.

  • No Apple in India: Kangana Ranaut deletes post against Trump, says was instructed by BJP president

    No Apple in India: Kangana Ranaut deletes post against Trump, says was instructed by BJP president

    Indian actor and politician Kangana Ranaut, widely revered by right-eing Hindutva trolls, has deleted a post on X (formerly Twitter) after she claimed she was instructed to do so by her party Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President J.P. Nadda. 

    The original tweet, now deleted, came in response to Trump’s recent remarks discouraging Apple CEO Tim Cook from expanding manufacturing operations in India. 

    Trump said during his visit to Qatar that he told Cook that Apple should “build in America” instead of investing further in India, citing high tariffs and market barriers. 

     In a now-deleted post, Ranaut had written:

    “What could be the reason of this love loss?

    1. He is American president but world’s most loved leader is Indian Prime Minister.

    2. Trump’s second term but Indian Prime Minister’s third term.

    3. Undoubtedly Trump is alpha male but our PM is sab Alpha male ka baap.

    What do you think? This is personal jealousy or diplomatic insecurity?”





    Shortly after, she posted a clarification stating that BJP President J.P. Nadda had asked her to delete the post:

    “Respected national president Shri @JPNadda ji called and asked me to delete the tweet I had posted regarding Trump asking Apple CEO Tim Cook not to manufacture in India. I regret posting that very personal opinion of mine, as per instructions I immediately deleted it from Instagram as well. Thanks.”




    The sequence of events provoked an enormous amount of online criticism, with many users questioning Kangana’s judgment and the BJP’s response.

    Popular YouTuber and political commentator Dhruv Rathee reacted:

    “Why do you think he asked you to do that? Is your party BJP afraid of Donald Trump?”

    Another user commented: 

    “Woman, Naddaji asked you to delete it because the post was embarrassing. By announcing that the party president asked you to delete it, you have made it 10x more embarrassing – sends the message BJP is so scared of Trump, the party prez instructs members to delete critical posts.” 




    She was also criticized by a number of other users for openly acknowledging that the party had told her to take down a personal opinion. People questioned Ranaut’s understanding of global affairs and referred to the party as “submissive” to Trump.


    Ranaut’s public acknowledgment that she removed the tweet at the BJP president’s request sparked a strong reaction from many users. Someone commented, “So it’s official now.” No matter how much humiliation Trump causes India, our administration will not take any action against him,” suggesting a lack of diplomatic assertiveness. 




    “Have some guts and don’t bow down to pressure, said another commenter, who slammed the action as being weak. It demonstrates how all Indians act under duress. They suffocate. They will never be able to defeat Pakistan Zindabad.”



    Several others referred to BJP’s leadership in harsh terms. A user wrote, “Hence proved. Modi & BJP are slaves of the US president,” while another accused Ranaut of lacking independence: “So you are chamchi of JP Nadda and Modi, can’t even post your own views.” 



    Others commented on party loyalty, saying, “Gulaam hai saare BJP me. Kabhi Modi ki gulaami. Kabhi Trump ki gulaami. Aur ye dusro ko gulaam bolte hai.” The behavior was interpreted by several users as diplomatic caution; one suggested, 


     “Modi ji is a pure Gujarati guy. He doesn’t want to ruin his friendship with Trump,” and another adding, “So Trump is still being the boss you can’t mess with even in a tweet.”



    A critical post also questioned Ranaut’s political capabilities: “I told you, Kangana,  you have no understanding of politics, diplomacy, or history. It’s dangerous for India to have people like you in Parliament.”




    Kangana Ranaut, who is contesting elections under the BJP banner, has not responded further to the backlash. This incident comes as the party navigates its diplomatic messaging in the wake of evolving U.S.-India trade relations and ongoing election campaigning.

  • ‘Safety comes first’: Mitchell Johnson asks foreign players to skip IPL 2025

    ‘Safety comes first’: Mitchell Johnson asks foreign players to skip IPL 2025

    As the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 prepares to resume after a break caused by military tensions between Pakistan and India, former Australian fast bowler Mitchell Johnson has issued a serious warning to overseas players.

    “If I had to make a call whether to head back to India and finish the tournament, it would be an easy decision. It’s a no from me. Lives and safety are the most important thing, not pay cheques,” He wrote in an opinion piece for The West Australian.

    The IPL was halted earlier this month after a military standoff between Pakistan and India. While a diplomatic calm has allowed both the IPL and the Pakistan Super League (PSL) to continue, Johnson believes the risk remains and foreign players may feel pressured to return.

    He pointed towards reports that the Indian cricket board was quietly pushing to bring back international players, even from teams that have already been knocked out of the tournament. For example, Cummins and Head are expected to rejoin Sunrisers Hyderabad despite their team being out of the playoffs race.

    “Cricketers are not just athletes, they are ambassadors,” wrote Johnson, adding that when safety was at stake, no one should be coerced or feel pressured to return even if leagues push hard for it.

    South Africa has already taken a strong stance, asking all its players to return home by May 26 regardless of the IPL schedule. Cricket Australia, however, has left the decision up to individual players.

    The situation becomes even more difficult with the World Test Championship final set to begin just eight days after the IPL ends on June 3. Players like Cummins, who are expected to play in the final, may face challenges in terms of recovery, preparation and avoiding burnout.

    Although Johnson acknowledged the IPL’s role in bringing people together in South Asia, he ended with a clear message. “Cricket is a source of pride and unity for fans. But the well-being of players and spectators must always come first,” he wrote.

    As the IPL restarts in a region still dealing with political tensions, Johnson’s words could influence both players and cricket boards. While it is uncertain if his warning will lead to any changes, his message is clear.

  • Mitchell Starc refuses to return for remaining IPL matches

    Mitchell Starc refuses to return for remaining IPL matches

    Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc has declined to return to India for the remaining matches of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, citing security concerns and regional tensions.

    According to media reports, Starc has officially informed his IPL franchise, Delhi Capitals, of his decision and conveyed his unavailability for the remainder of the season, choosing to prioritise safety.

    Starc was present during the blackout incident in Dharamshala on May 8, which led to the suspension of a match. His wife, Australian women’s cricketer Alyssa Healy, was also present at the stadium at the time, and she later spoke candidly about the unsettling experience in an interview. 

    Meanwhile, fellow Australian fast bowler Josh Hazlewood is set to return to India despite nursing a shoulder issue. He is expected to rejoin Royal Challengers Bangalore ahead of the playoffs.

    Australian captain Pat Cummins and top-order batter Travis Head are also planning to return to their respective IPL franchises in India.

    Cricket Australia is expected to issue an official statement soon regarding the availability of its players for the remainder of the IPL.

    It merits mention that the IPL was suspended last Friday amid escalating geopolitical tensions in the region. However, the tournament is now scheduled to resume on May 17.