Islamabad, Sep 25: Former cricketer Basit Ali has criticized Pakistani bowlers for not fully embracing Morne Morkel’s coaching expertise, contrasting their attitudes with the professionalism shown by Indian players. Morkel, who recently joined India’s coaching staff, made an immediate impact as the Indian bowling unit dominated in the first Test against Bangladesh. India secured a commanding 280-run victory in Chennai, largely thanks to the stellar performances from their bowlers. Jasprit Bumrah led with figures of 4/50, while spinners Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja dominated in the second innings. Morkel, who had a brief and disappointing stint with Pakistan, has seemingly…
Author: Mawadat Fatima
Islamabad, Sep 25: The Finance Division of Pakistan has introduced strict guidelines for the allocation and re-appropriation of funds during the financial year, emphasizing the importance of maintaining fiscal discipline. According to the notification issued, no supplementary grant will be provided for any additional, unbudgeted spending beyond the parliamentary-approved level, except in cases of severe natural disasters. Key aspects include: Re-appropriation of funds: Principal Accounting Officers (PAOs) are empowered to reallocate funds within approved limits but must avoid re-appropriation from unreleased budgets. Supplementary Grants: Requests for additional funds require a thorough justification process, including certification from PAOs that all alternatives…
Islamabad, Sep 25: The International Monetary Fund (IMF) Executive Board is set to review Pakistan’s request for a 37-month Extended Fund Facility (EFF) of approximately $7 billion today. This follows a staff-level agreement reached in July, which was contingent upon meeting certain prerequisites and securing financing assurances from Pakistan’s development partners. Pakistan has reportedly met all prior conditions, increasing the likelihood of the EFF’s approval. The IMF has also been reassured about reforms in Pakistan’s power sector and rollover of existing loans by friendly nations. Along with the IMF’s $7 billion package, Pakistan aims to secure an additional $5 billion…
Islamabad, Sep 25: Pakistani umpire Aleem Dar has announced his retirement after the ongoing Champions One Day Cup 2024, marking the conclusion of his illustrious on-field career. Although he officially retired from international umpiring in March 2023, Dar continued officiating matches within Pakistan but will now focus on his thalassemia hospital. Aleem Dar, a member of the ICC Elite Panel since 2004, holds the record for officiating 448 international matches, including 145 Tests, 231 ODIs, and 72 T20Is. Over two decades, he became a respected figure in cricket, known for his calm presence and sharp decision-making. His career includes officiating…
Islamabad, Sep 25: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif urged developed nations to assist developing countries in overcoming debt traps exacerbated by climate change-related natural disasters. Speaking at the SDG Moment 2024 Meeting, held during the 79th United Nations General Assembly session, Sharif highlighted the devastation caused by the 2022 floods in Pakistan, which resulted in a loss of $30 billion. He stressed that Pakistan, contributing minimally to global carbon emissions, bears the brunt of climate change, while wealthy countries, responsible for most emissions, should step up and help. Sharif also addressed the financial struggles of developing countries like Pakistan in achieving…
Islamabad, Sep 25: Federal Minister for Energy Awais Ahmed Khan Leghari announced on Tuesday that the government is actively pursuing power sector reforms aimed at providing affordable electricity to consumers. Speaking on a private television channel, the minister assured that consumers could expect positive news about lower electricity costs in the coming months. Leghari also mentioned ongoing discussions with Independent Power Producers (IPPs) to improve energy pricing. He acknowledged that the high cost of electricity in Pakistan is primarily due to elevated interest rates and currency devaluation but emphasized that the government is taking all necessary steps to ease the…
Islamabad, Sep 25: Mark Robinson, the GOP gubernatorial nominee for North Carolina, faced mounting political challenges as his campaign staff resigned following reports of his controversial past comments on an online pornography forum. Allegations of antigay and racist remarks, coupled with his admission of paying for an abortion for his now-wife, have created a scandal-filled backdrop for his candidacy. Robinson, known for his staunch anti-abortion stance, is now navigating a turbulent political landscape in a key swing state. North Carolina, which Donald Trump narrowly won in 2020, reflects the complex dynamics of modern American politics. The state’s mix of rural…
Islamabad, Sep 25: Qist Bazaar, Pakistan’s leading Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) fintech startup, has successfully raised $3.2 million in its Series A funding round. This round was led by Indus Valley Capital, with contributions from Gobi Partners, a notable Asia-focused venture capital firm with $1.6 billion in assets under management. Bank Alfalah, one of Pakistan’s largest commercial banks, had previously led Qist Bazaar’s seed funding round. This funding marks a pivotal moment for Pakistan’s consumer financing sector, as it represents the first collaboration between an international venture capital firm and a major Pakistani commercial bank to invest in a…
Islamabad, Sep 25: In an exhilarating match at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, the New Zealand Women faced off against the Australia Women, showcasing their skills and determination on the cricket field. Fans gathered at the stadium, eager to witness this highly anticipated clash between two of the top teams in women’s cricket. The match began with New Zealand Women winning the toss and opting to bat first. Openers Sophie Devine and Suzie Bates forged a strong partnership, setting a solid foundation for their innings. Their aggressive approach kept the Australian bowlers on their toes. However, the Australia Women’s…
Islamabad, Sep 25: The highly anticipated cricket match between the United States and the UAE lived up to its expectations, delivering thrilling moments that captivated fans. The UAE’s bowling attack was formidable in the early stages, putting the United States under significant pressure by keeping their run rate low. Despite this, the United States responded with key batting performances, hitting some spectacular boundaries that shifted the momentum. A pivotal moment occurred when the UAE secured a crucial wicket, which briefly gave them the upper hand. However, the United States regained control through strategic partnerships, battling back into contention. The game…
