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  • PCB makes major changes to squad against West Indies

    PCB makes major changes to squad against West Indies

    The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced a 15-member squad for the two Test matches against West Indies, scheduled from January 17 to 21 and January 25 to 29 in Multan.

    Seven changes have been made to the 15-member squad that toured South Africa.

    Shan Masood (captain), Saud Shakeel (vice-captain), Babar Azam, Kamran Ghulam, Khurram Shehzad, Mohammad Rizwan, Nauman Ali, and Salman Ali Agha have been retained.

    Leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed joins off-spinner Sajid Khan and left-arm spinner Nauman Ali. Openers Imam-ul-Haq and Mohammad Huraira replace the injured Saim Ayub and the out-of-form Abdullah Shafique.

    Aamer Jamal, Mohammad Abbas, Mir Hamza, and Naseem Shah have been rested. Khurram Shehzad is retained, while Mohammad Ali returns, and uncapped Kashif Ali is included.

    Former Pakistan U19 and Shaheen’s captain Rohail Nazir has been added to the squad in the absence of wicketkeeper-batter Haseebullah.

    Pakistan full squad:

    Shan Masood (captain), Saud Shakeel (vice-captain), Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Imam-ul-Haq, Kamran Ghulam, Kashif Ali, Khurram Shehzad, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Huraira, Mohammad Rizwan (wicketkeeper/batter), Nauman Ali, Rohail Nazir (wicketkeeper/batter), Sajid Khan, and Salman Ali Agha.

  • Hadiqa Kiani releases teaser for new song Inna Akhiyan

    Hadiqa Kiani releases teaser for new song Inna Akhiyan

    Star singer Hadiqa Kiani has released the teaser for her new song, Inna Akhiyan, leaving fans eagerly awaiting its release.

    Sharing her excitement on Instagram, she wrote, “So privileged to share this beautiful story with you all. The full director’s cut, filmed by the genius Abdullah Haris and starring the amazing young actors Sabeena Farooq and Talha Chahour, is out now. Inna Akhiyan .”

    The music video, inspired by true events, is set in the forgotten alleys of Lahore and narrates the poignant story of two individuals burdened by life’s challenges. These characters live amidst the struggles of poverty and illness, including the debilitating effects of Parkinson’s disease. Despite their hardships, they discover a love so profound that it transcends their harsh realities.

    The post details give a beautiful glimpse into the upcoming video: “Their love is raw, unyielding, and aching with truth. Every trembling hand that reaches out, every faltering step they take together. Their love is not painted with glossy colors but etched in the cracks of their struggles. This is a tale of a symphony of resilience, where every glance is a verse, every touch a chorus, and every unspoken word a melody of hope.”

    Directed by the visionary Abdullah Haris and featuring moving performances by Sabeena Farooq and Talha Chahour, Inna Akhiyan captures the essence of love against all odds.

  • RLNG price hike straining households, industries

    RLNG price hike straining households, industries

    The Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) announced an upward revision in the prices of Regasified Liquefied Natural Gas (RLNG) as system losses touched a record high of 16.16 percent. According to Dawn, the price hike is only for areas that Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGCL) serves – Sindh and Balochistan.

    The sale price of SSGCL has risen by almost half a percent per unit to $10.59. While this may seem minor at first glance, one must consider the volume of consumption. The magnitude of Pakistan’s volume of gas consumption can be analyzed once data from the International Energy Agency (IEA) is considered.

    As per the IEA, Pakistan produced 854,568 tera joules of natural gas. However, this was still not enough for domestic consumption as gas imports skyrocketed by 1527 percent from 2014-2022. The tragedy here is that experts are predicting that the increase on RLNG prices will not even significantly benefit SSGCL as system losses continue to worsen.

    System losses stood at 13 percent a couple of months ago but grew to over 16 percent in the last month prompting an increase in price for the upcoming months. Analysts predict that the SSGCL might not benefit significantly despite the price increase however, the rest of the economy is projected to fare even worse.

    Natural gas is used in residential areas for the purpose of heating and cooking. The industrial sector in Pakistan also heavily relies on natural gas for the production of key chemicals that are used to produce fertilizers and manufacture plastics.

    According to data from the IEA, Pakistan’s residences share in 36 percent of total final consumption whereas this number stands even higher at 37 percent for industries.  The effect of an increase in RLNG prices will serve to erode the purchasing power of an average citizen. This is because natural gas is an essential utility that is categorized as a necessity by most analysts.

    Higher costs of RLNG will translate into consumers having fewer funds available to allocate to other items in their basket of goods. For businesses, this spells bad news as they will remain unable to capture the same level of consumer spending as before.

    The gas price hike spells bad news for industrialists too as gas is used extensively in the fertilizer and plastic manufacturing sectors. Fertilizer companies have industrial bases in Sindh where gas prices have risen. A prime example can be Fauji Fertilizer’s plant in Mirpur Mathelo, Distt. Ghotki Sindh. This will hurt fertilizer companies such as Fauji Fert, Engro Fertertilizers and Fatima Fert.

    Pakistan is a net importer of fertilizers and the increase in prices could cause a loss in the competitiveness of locally produced fertilizers. The agricultural sector could consider substituting away from local fertilizers in favor of cheaper imported fertilizer.

    Moreover, the plastic manufacturing sector will get hurt as well. As per Zaraye, there are 11000 units of plastic manufactures that could struggle once gas prices rise. Many are speculating that the ones hit hardest will be the small to medium sized plants operating in either Sindh or Balochistan.

  • Divorce rumors surround another Indian cricketer

    Divorce rumors surround another Indian cricketer

    After Yuzvendra Chahal and Dhanashree Verma, another Indian cricketer and his wife are rumoured to be heading for a divorce.

    Indian media reported that cricketer Manish Pandey, who has played 29 ODIs and 39 T20 Internationals for India, and his wife actress Ashrita Shetty, are facing marital discord. The couple has unfollowed each other on Instagram, adding fuel to the rumours.

    Speculations started when both of them deleted pictures of each other from their Instagram accounts, leading to talks of an impending separation.

    Manish Pandey and Ashrita Shetty were last seen together a while ago, and rumours suggest their differences started after the 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL) season.

    The couple tied the knot in a private ceremony in December 2019.

    Previously, cricketer Yuzvendra Chahal and his wife Dhanashree Verma were also rumoured to be separating, but they denied it through their Instagram stories without any official statement.

    Recently, Dhanashree posted about facing difficult times, saying false rumours about her character have caused distress for her and her family.

    Chahal also thanked his supporters and criticized false rumours, urging respect for their privacy.

    Both expressed disappointment over the spread of unverified news and requested that their personal life be respected.

  • Doctor advises six-month rest for Saim Ayub

    Doctor advises six-month rest for Saim Ayub

    Pakistan’s star batter Saim Ayub, who suffered an ankle injury during the Test against South Africa on January 3, might not be able to recover in time for the upcoming Champions Trophy, his doctor has said.

    As per the details, reports quoted renowned sports orthopedic Dr Lucky Jeyaseelan, who reviewed Saim’s test results and reports, as advising the opening batsman to rest completely for six months.

    Another doctor, however, said Saim’s ankle was healing well and he was now able to bear weight on his foot. Dr David Redfern also said that the batter’s test reports will be sent to the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) medical panel for further evaluation.

    Meanwhile, it was reported that a panel of doctors will continue to monitor Saim’s condition, review his reports, X-rays and other factors for a final decision on his recovery and return to the national squad.

    The conflicting claims regarding Saim’s recovery come while he is in London with Pakistan coach Azhar Mahmood.

    “Thank God, the situation has improved significantly. Whether surgery is needed and when it might happen will be determined by the medical panel. The examination report will be available soon,” Mahmood said after accompanying Saim on his visit to a London clinic for a second assessment of the injury.

    Pakistan’s opener batter Saim Ayub was injured while fielding in the second match of the series at Cape Town on Friday.

    The opener was taken off the field with the help of his teammates.

  • Meem Se Mohabbat exposes workplace harassment, Roshi’s struggle for empowerment

    Meem Se Mohabbat exposes workplace harassment, Roshi’s struggle for empowerment

    Every week, Meem Se Mohabbat brings us a story of relatable challenges, workplace dynamics, and the struggles of a young girl finding her place in a complicated world.

    However, in this week’s episodes, the drama features some compelling scenes.

    Roshi’s journey becomes more relatable and less exaggerated, which is a pleasing development. Talha, too, stands out as a strict boss.

    Shariq pressures Roshi to go to a party, and her actions – defiant yet harmless, gullible yet relatable – warm us up to her character development.

    Dananeer’s acting has been impressive in recent episodes, as she balances being a clever young girl who gets into trouble because she believes in herself. Youth is a double-edged sword, achieving yet juggling between being smart and silly, and Roshi is that juggler in Meem Se Mohabbat.

    Some of her actions may seem like big plans made in good faith, such as calling Dr. Gopal to reschedule the appointment. Others might appear frivolous, like sending off that email, or even defiant, like becoming friends with Shariq, who is any young girl’s worst nightmare.

    Meem Se Mohabbat is something of a mix between Haseena Moin’s Ankahi and Dhoop Kinare: an angry boss hero and a bumbling young heroine who becomes courageous until she makes a big mistake and the handsome boss swoops in to save the day.

    The scenario where Shariq manipulates Roshi into attending a shady party is well-executed and believable. Even though a young girl may seem headstrong and sure of herself, she failed to confront Shariq for taking credit for her work and was deceived by his birthday plan and late-office scheme.

    It is interesting how Talha saved the day when he found Shariq and Roshi working late, removed her from the project, and changed her seating arrangement.

    However, as a viewer, one wonders why Shariq faced no consequences. Why didn’t Talha warn him? Shariq’s behaviour should not be tolerated in the office, and he should have been reprimanded.

    Talha’s cautionary words to Roshi – “Don’t stay back with anyone, not even me” – were important. He did drop her home, though. How can a girl protect herself in the workplace and still learn to trust? Meem Se Mohabbat raises important questions.

    Talha’s relationship with Roshi’s father is a breath of fresh air. His calling her out for lying to Dr Gopal was a necessary moment in the script.

    As the drama progresses, we hope Roshi’s character isn’t undermined or made to look foolish just to elevate Talha into a superhero. Talha, the stoic hero, might be a thing of the past unless he shows growth and more depth in his character. Ahad Raza Mir is carrying the show, and we’re enjoying the subtle shades of his performance as he struggles to control his temper while understanding Roshi.

    If you’re watching Meem Se Mohabbat, let us know what you think about the recent episodes. Is Roshi’s character and current situation relatable to real life?

  • Three arrested for sharing AI video of Maryam Nawaz, UAE president

    Three arrested for sharing AI video of Maryam Nawaz, UAE president

    The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has arrested three suspects involved in editing and sharing of a fake video of Punjab Chief Minister (CM) Maryam Nawaz with United Arab Emirates (UAE) President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

    As per the details, fake AI-generated videos of the Punjab CM started doing the rounds over the internet after Maryam, accompanied by Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif, greeted the UAE president upon his arrival at the Rahim Yar Khan Airport on December 5.

    Reports on Saturday quoted FIA officials as saying that 20 social media accounts responsible for sharing the fake media had also been identified. Three suspects have so far been, and the FIA is also conducting raids to arrest the remaining culprits, they added.

    A joint investigation team (JIT) to widen the scope of investigation under the chairmanship of Additional Director Sarfraz Chaudhry has been constituted with Lahore, Multan and Faisalabad deputy directors as members, reports said.

    Action comes after Punjab CM’s office approached the FIA’s cybercrime wing for a probe into the doctored pictures and videos. The FIA had earlier assured the government of cracking down on those responsible for uploading and sharing the altered content.

    As part of the investigation, the FIA’s cybercrime wing had said, it would conduct inquiries across the country. The agency had warned that individuals found involved in uploading or sharing of the fake images would face legal consequences.

    It merits a mention that deepfakes or AI-generated visuals are becoming increasingly convincing and easier to make. In May 2022, the FIA’s Cybercrime Wing arrested a man in Peshawar on charges of circulating fake videos of CM Maryam on social media.

    Doctored images and fake videos are used to discredit individuals’ role in society, experts say, adding that politicians, actresses and other well-known persons are especially targeted by those involved in such activities.

    Earlier, Punjab Information Minister Azma Zahid Bokhari also fell victim to a deepfake video. 

    Reacting to the viral video, the info minister had stressed the need to urgently tackle the menace. Bokhari had asserted that the criminal justice system needed to be modernised to counter such issues, as deepfake videos were frequently used to target women.

    “I was shattered when it came to my knowledge,” the minister had told a foreign media outlet, vowing to do every thing in her power for the protection of digital rights of the people.

  • Johny Lever praises Imran Ashraf on Mazaq Raat

    Johny Lever praises Imran Ashraf on Mazaq Raat

     When Johny Lever says you’ve got it, then you’ve truly made an impact. Imran Ashraf’s remarkable work has caught the attention of the comedy king himself, a testament to his skills and hard-earned success.

    Actor Imran Ashraf, known for his versatile acting in the entertainment industry, recently got a special shout- out from Indian comedy legend Johnny Lever.

    In the video, Johny Lever said, “Imran Bhai, Asalam O Aliokum, Mazaq Raat Mazaq Raat, wow you did a fantastic job! Imran Bhai, we have spoken before, and I have seen your performance in your dramas, like your Bhola character and Shammo, you were amazing in those.”

    However, it was Imran’s anchoring skills on Mazaq Raat that truly impressed Lever.

    “Anchoring is no easy task, you have to manage everything, and your presentation was excellent, you’re doing stand-up as well, and your performance is wonderful. You have a real sense of good music, it is amazing,” the Dard Ka Rishta actor said.

    “What’s even more remarkable is that we miss Albela sahab and Sardar Kamal sahab, but may Allah grant them Jannat. Our other brother, Akram Udas, has a great sense of humor too, and I am amazed at the talent these three (Honey, Sakhwat and Akram) have. May Allah bless them with good health,” Johny Lever added.

    Impressed by Imran Ashraf’s ability to bring out the best in others, Johnny Lever commented, ““Mazaq Raat is an amazing show, and the way you bring out talent from the audience is incredible. The guests on the show are also doing amazing, and you’re doing even better than them. The interaction with the audience is great.”

    Johny Lever ended his message by offering his best wishes, “Mazaq Raat is an amazing program, and I wish you all the best, Imran Ashraf. May God bless you, and my heartfelt greetings to the entire team.”

     Mazaq Raat host Imran Ashraf shared the video on his Instagram with the, “Sab say bara award Sab say bara

    SAB SAY BARA AWARD

    The king of character actors Jhoney lever sahib Love you

    Ap ki is appreciation say mein aur mehnat karoon ga

    ALLAH APKO BOHAT KHUSH RAKHAY.”

    Imran Ashraf starred in drama such as Jazeera, Bandi, Meri Maa, Noor e Nazar, Mere Meherbaan, Shehr-e- Ajabi, Dil Mom Ka Diya, Kabhi Band Kabhi Baja, Ranjha Ranjha Kardi, Kahin Deep Jaley, Mushk, Raqs-e- Bismil, Badzaat, Chaudhry and Son, Heer Da Hero and Namak Haram.

  • ‘I made a pledge’: Here’s why Aamir Khan finally quit smoking

    ‘I made a pledge’: Here’s why Aamir Khan finally quit smoking

    What does it take for a Bollywood superstar to quit a lifelong habit? For actor Aamir Khan, it was a promise to himself and his family.

    At the trailer of his son Junaid Khan’s film Loveyapa, the PK actor shared his reasons for quitting and how it coincided with a significant moment in his family life.

    “I’m happy to say that I’ve given up this bad habit (smoking), and I also want to tell everyone who is listening or watching to please quit smoking. It’s not a good habit, and no one should be doing it,” he said.

     Aamir Khan decided that it was time to make a positive change in his life.

     “For me, this was the right time and the right reason. I’ve always felt the need to quit, and now with my son’s career taking off, it felt like the perfect moment. I made a personal vow in my heart that I was going to quit. Whether my son’s film succeeds or not, I’m doing this for myself as a parent. I felt it was important to make this sacrifice and hope that something good comes out of it. I ask all of you to pray and wish for the best,”I he added.

    Earlier, Aamir Khan opened up about his battle with alcohol, admitting that in the past, he used to drink all night long.

    In a candid conversation with fellow actor Nana Patekar, the Dangal actor confessed that he struggled with extreme habits.   

    Nana Patekar asked Aamir Khan if he had any bad habits.

    “I have quit drinking now, but at one point, I used to drink all night. I couldn’t stop. The problem is that I am an extremist; I keep doing what I’m already doing. It’s not a good thing, and I realize that. I know it’s wrong, but I can’t stop myself,” the Taare Zameen Par actor replied.

    Standing at around 5’5, Aamir was concerned that audiences will not accept him especially when compared to his taller contemporaries.

    “I was scared fans would reject me because of my height, this was my fear,” Aamir Khan shared.

    Despite these early insecurities, Aamir eventually overcame them and gained confidence.

    “Later I realized that all of this does not matter at all, what is important is how honestly you are working and how your work can enchant people, and after that, everything else is unimportant.”

  • PSL10: Lahore Qalandars to get David Warner?

    PSL10: Lahore Qalandars to get David Warner?

    Aatif Rana, the owner of Lahore Qalandars, shared his thoughts on David Warner’s inclusion in the team for Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10 during a special interview on Samaa Digital’s show Zor Ka Jor.

    When asked about including top players like Warner in Lahore Qalandars, he explained, “Big names are needed when your league isn’t strong enough. But now, all teams, including Lahore Qalandars, have become brands.

    “I have a deep passion for cricket. Our cricketers, like Fakhar Zaman and Babar Azam, are stars in their own right. If our brand needs bigger names, we are always open to welcoming them, whether it’s Chris Gayle or AB de Villiers. Lahore Qalandars have always embraced big names.”

    Rana also acknowledged PCB’s policies, saying, “Big names are now prominent in PSL. We work hard for 11 months, carrying out talent hunts and development programs and showcasing our talent during PSL. Our team has become a family, and we make decisions together about which players the team needs. There are so many great names that it’s hard to decide who to drop and who to pick.”

    Speaking about teamwork and leadership, he said, “In any workplace, everyone has different opinions, but we have to move forward together.” He praised Salman Naseer (CEO of PSL), stating, “Whenever we made a suggestion, he welcomed it.”

    He also highlighted the importance of improving the fan experience, saying, “The most important thing is fan following. The chairman’s decision to upgrade the stadiums to improve the fan experience is fantastic.”

    He recalled a time when, during matches at Qaddafi Stadium, “over 500,000 people” across the city would be disturbed because of security measures disrupting the city’s routine.

    “People used to argue with me, saying, “You don’t win matches,” but now, after the last four seasons, they say they can’t get tickets,” he said, lightheartedly adding, “Salman Naseer told me that people only ask for Lahore Qalandars tickets.”

    Rana also discussed the unique strengths of PSL and compared it to the Indian Premier League (IPL).

    “The speciality of our neighbouring country’s IPL is its Bollywood, while PSL’s unique feature is its young talent.” He went on to highlight that players like Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf, and Fakhar Zaman gained recognition because of PSL.

    Qalandars had a rough start in the PSL, failing to make the playoffs in their first two seasons in 2016 and 2017. In 2018, their performance improved slightly, but they still did not qualify. However, in 2019, Lahore Qalandars made a strong comeback, and since then, they have consistently performed better, winning the PSL championship in 2022 and 2023.