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    Heavy rains claim 26 lives in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa o…

    ByJustpaste.in

    At least 26 people, including women and children, have lost their lives after five days of heavy rainfall across the plains and mountainous districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, according to the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA). The severe weather has also left several people injured and caused significant damage to homes and infrastructure in multiple parts of the province. The PDMA’s latest report stated that the fatalities include two women and four children, highlighting the devastating human impact of the ongoing spell of heavy rain. In addition to the deaths, six people sustained injuries in weather-related incidents reported across affected districts. The continuous rainfall triggered flash floods, landslides, and structural collapses, causing widespread destruction in both urban and rural areas. According to the disaster management authority, 65 houses have been damaged, with 41 homes suffering partial damage and 24 houses completely destroyed. The damage has displaced several families, many of whom are now relying on emergency assistance. The worst-affected districts include Abbottabad, Swat, Buner, Khyber, Lower Chitral, Lower Dir, Mansehra, Mardan, Peshawar, Shangla, Swabi, Upper Dir, and Upper Kohistan. Rescue teams and local authorities continue to monitor vulnerable areas where additional rainfall may increase the risk of flooding and landslides. The PDMA confirmed that it is working closely with Rescue 1122, district administrations, and other relevant government agencies to coordinate emergency response efforts. Rescue operations, relief distribution, and damage assessments are currently underway to ensure that affected families receive immediate assistance. Authorities have instructed district administrations to accelerate relief activities and provide essential support, including temporary shelter, food, medical care, and other emergency services to displaced residents. Officials are also assessing infrastructure damage and identifying areas requiring urgent rehabilitation. The recent spell of heavy rainfall serves as another reminder of the increasing challenges posed by extreme weather events in Pakistan. Experts have repeatedly emphasized the importance of disaster preparedness, early warning systems, and resilient infrastructure to reduce the impact of floods and severe storms on vulnerable communities. Residents living in flood-prone and mountainous areas have been advised to remain alert, avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rainfall, and follow safety instructions issued by local authorities. As rescue and recovery operations continue, government agencies remain focused on protecting lives, supporting affected families, and restoring normal conditions in the worst-hit districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

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    Indian cargo ship sinks after suspected attack nea…

    ByJustpaste.in

    An Indian cargo ship sank in the Red Sea after suffering severe damage in a suspected maritime attack near Yemen’s western coast. The incident, which reportedly involved an explosive-laden boat or unidentified projectile, caused a powerful explosion and fire aboard the vessel before it eventually went down despite rescue efforts. According to international media reports, the cargo ship sustained extensive damage following the blast. Several crew members were injured during the incident, but no fatalities have been reported. The crew immediately initiated emergency procedures and alerted nearby maritime authorities, who responded with rescue operations. Authorities attempted to secure and tow the damaged vessel to a safe location. However, the ship’s condition deteriorated, and it eventually sank in the Red Sea. Medical assistance was provided to injured crew members, while rescue teams ensured the safe evacuation of everyone on board. India’s Ministry of External Affairs stated that the vessel was struck by an unidentified projectile, confirming that the cargo ship later sank. The ministry added that all crew members were safely rescued and no loss of life occurred. As of now, no group has officially claimed responsibility for the attack. However, the incident comes amid heightened security concerns in the Red Sea, where commercial shipping has faced repeated threats in recent months. Several previous attacks on merchant vessels in the region have been claimed by the Iran-backed Houthi movement, although no evidence has yet linked this specific incident to any particular group. The Red Sea has become one of the world’s most sensitive maritime routes due to ongoing regional tensions. Commercial vessels transiting the area have encountered increased security risks, prompting many shipping companies to strengthen safety measures or alter their routes. Recent months have also seen warnings and threats against ships passing through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a strategic waterway connecting the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden. Disruptions in this corridor can have significant consequences for global trade, particularly the transportation of oil, gas, and other essential commodities. The Red Sea and Bab el-Mandeb Strait rank among the world’s busiest shipping lanes, serving as critical links between Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. Any disruption in these waters can affect international supply chains, increase shipping costs, and impact global energy markets. Investigations into the cause of the attack are expected to continue as maritime authorities gather evidence. Meanwhile, shipping companies and governments are closely monitoring the security situation in the region to ensure the safety of commercial vessels and international trade routes.

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    PCB warns former cricketers over participation in …

    ByJustpaste.in

    The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has taken strict notice of the participation of several former Pakistani cricketers in the Asian Legends League 2026 being held in Zambia, warning that players who take part in unapproved overseas events without obtaining a No Objection Certificate (NOC) will face disciplinary action. According to the PCB, the tournament has not received official approval from the International Cricket Council (ICC). Reports also indicate that the Zambia Cricket Union has not formally sanctioned the event. Under ICC regulations, current and former players are required to obtain permission from their home cricket board before participating in overseas cricket competitions. The board emphasized that compliance with ICC rules is mandatory and that any violation could result in serious consequences. The PCB stated that individuals who participated in the unapproved league without prior approval would be subject to disciplinary measures in accordance with existing regulations. As part of the announced penalties, those found in violation may be denied an NOC for participation in any overseas cricket league for up to two years. In addition, they may become ineligible for assignments associated with the Pakistan Cricket Board and the HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) during the same period. The restrictions could extend beyond playing opportunities and also apply to coaching, mentoring, commentary, administrative roles, and other official responsibilities offered by the PCB. The board said these measures are intended to protect the integrity of cricket administration and ensure compliance with international governance standards. The ICC has also reportedly advised its member cricket boards to take appropriate action against players who participate in unauthorized cricket events. Such guidance aims to maintain uniform enforcement of regulations governing international and domestic cricket activities. Reaffirming its commitment to global cricket regulations, the PCB urged all current and former Pakistani cricketers to obtain the necessary NOC before accepting invitations to participate in overseas tournaments. The board stressed that prior approval is essential regardless of the format or location of the competition. The PCB further stated that it will continue working closely with the ICC and other member boards to ensure consistent implementation of international cricket regulations. Officials believe that adherence to these rules is necessary to preserve the credibility of the sport and maintain professional standards across all levels of cricket. The latest warning serves as a reminder that participation in overseas leagues must follow established approval procedures. The PCB has encouraged players to verify the official status of tournaments and secure the required permissions before committing to any international cricket event to avoid disciplinary action.

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    Gold prices rise in Pakistan

    ByJustpaste.in

      KARACHI: Gold prices climbed in Pakistan on Monday, even though international gold rates experienced a slight decline. The increase in local prices was mainly attributed to continued uncertainty surrounding the Middle East conflict, concerns over rising inflation, and investor caution ahead of key US economic data expected later this week. According to the All-Pakistan Gems and Jewellers Sarafa Association, the price of 24-karat gold increased by Rs1,700 per tola, taking it to Rs428,436. Similarly, the price of 10 grams of goldrose by Rs1,457, reaching Rs367,314. The latest increase came after a significant decline on Saturday, when gold prices had fallen by Rs3,700 per tola to settle at Rs426,736. In contrast, the international gold market remained under slight pressure. Spot gold slipped by 0.1% to $4,037.01 per ounce, while US gold futures for August delivery declined by 0.3% to $4,035.80 per ounce during trading. Despite the minor drop, analysts believe global investors remain cautious because of ongoing geopolitical tensions and expectations of fresh economic developments in the United States. Silver prices in Pakistan also moved higher. The price of silver gained Rs54 per tola, taking it to Rs6,291, reflecting continued demand for precious metals in the local market. Adnan Agar, Director at Interactive Commodities, said that international gold prices had eased slightly after fluctuating throughout the trading session. According to him, gold touched a high of $4,080 per ounce before falling to a low of$4,019, eventually stabilising near $4,038. He noted that gold remains under pressure and the market is closely monitoring upcoming US economic indicators, particularly employment data, which could influence the Federal Reserve’s future monetary policy decisions. Agar added that gold has remained within a broad trading range of approximately $3,950 to $4,250 per ounce since June. However, he expects this range to break within the next one or two weeks, potentially leading to a stronger upward or downward price movement depending on market conditions. Market participants are now awaiting a series of important US labour market reports, as these will provide further insight into the Federal Reserve’s interest rate outlook. Higher interest rates generally reduce the appeal of non-yielding assets like gold, while expectations of rate cuts tend to support bullion prices. Another factor attracting attention in the global market is reports that South Korea’s central bank intends to purchase gold from domestic producers, a move that could provide additional support to demand in the coming months. Meanwhile, oil markets have also remained highly volatile. Brent crude futures surged by more than 20% last month, driven largely by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, raising concerns that higher energy prices could fuel inflation worldwide. Edward Meir, an analyst at Marex, said gold has traded within a narrow range of $4,000 to $4,200 per ounce for over a month. He explained that the possibility of inflation picking up again, particularly after July’s economic data, is helping support gold prices despite the recent weakness. Separately, the Pakistani rupee posted another modest gain against the US dollar. The local currency appreciated by 0.01%, closing at Rs277.77 per dollar, compared with Rs277.80 at the end of the previous trading session, reflecting continued stability in the foreign exchange market.

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    Gaza holds funeral for 112 victims recovered nearl…

    ByJustpaste.in

    Funeral prayers have been held in Gaza for 112 Palestinians whose bodies were recovered nearly three years after the destruction of residential buildings in the Al-Sabra neighborhood during the 2023 Gaza conflict. The remains were retrieved from beneath the rubble following an extended rescue operation, bringing long-awaited closure to many grieving families. According to local civil defense authorities, the bodies were recovered after approximately 136 hours of continuous search and rescue efforts at the site of collapsed residential buildings in Gaza City. The operation was carried out under challenging conditions, including damaged infrastructure, limited heavy machinery, and shortages of fuel. The funeral procession drew large crowds as mourners carried flag-draped coffins to the cemetery. Family members and residents gathered to pay their final respects, with many expressing the pain of waiting years before they could bury their loved ones. Several families reportedly lost multiple relatives in the same incident, making the ceremony particularly emotional. Civil defense officials stated that many of those recovered belonged to the Abu Sharia family, while around 40 children were among the victims identified. Authorities also warned that an estimated 157 additional bodies may still remain trapped beneath the rubble, highlighting the scale of the destruction and the ongoing recovery challenge. The buildings collapsed during an Israeli airstrike on November 22, 2023, in the Al-Sabra area of Gaza City. According to Palestinian authorities, more than 300 people were killed in the attack. Due to the intensity of the bombardment and the limited rescue capabilities at the time, only a small number of bodies were initially recovered, leaving many victims buried beneath the debris. Israeli authorities have previously stated that military operations in Gaza target armed groups and military infrastructure, while emphasizing that measures are taken to reduce civilian casualties. The humanitarian impact of the conflict, however, has been widely documented by international organizations, which have repeatedly called for greater protection of civilians. Meanwhile, Türkiye, Egypt, and Qatar have expressed concern over reported violations of the Gaza ceasefire and urged all parties to fully implement the terms of the agreement. The three countries stressed the importance of protecting civilians, hospitals, and medical facilities in accordance with international humanitarian law. Rescue workers continue to search through destroyed neighborhoods, warning that thousands of people may still be missing beneath collapsed structures across Gaza. They say recovery efforts remain slow because of damaged infrastructure, equipment shortages, and difficult working conditions. The latest mass funeral serves as a solemn reminder of the lasting human cost of the conflict and the enduring grief faced by affected families.

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    Two women killed, two girls injured in Lahore dome…

    ByJustpaste.in

    A man has been arrested in Lahore after allegedly killing his mother and a neighboring woman during a domestic dispute in the Harbanspura area. The incident also left two girls injured, prompting a swift response from police and forensic investigators. According to police, the attack took place in Kotli Pir Abdul Rehman, a locality in Harbanspura, where the suspect allegedly assaulted multiple people using a screwdriver. Authorities said the victims suffered serious injuries during the attack, resulting in two fatalities and two injuries. The deceased have been identified as 70-year-old Kaneez Fatima, the suspect’s mother, and 52-year-old Sultana Imran, a neighboring resident. Police said both women died after sustaining multiple injuries during the incident. Two girls, identified as 23-year-old Aqsa and 13-year-old Arifa, were also injured in the attack. They were immediately shifted to a nearby hospital, where they received medical treatment. Officials have not yet released further details about their current condition. Police officers, forensic experts, and investigators arrived at the scene shortly after receiving reports of the incident. The area was secured while evidence was collected to assist in the investigation. Authorities also documented the crime scene and interviewed witnesses to determine the sequence of events. Law enforcement officials confirmed that the suspect was arrested at the scene along with the alleged weapon used in the attack. The accused has been identified as Aurangzeb, and investigators have begun formal legal proceedings. Police stated that the motive appears to be linked to a domestic dispute, although the exact circumstances remain under investigation. The bodies of the deceased were transferred to a hospital for medico-legal procedures and post-mortem examinations, while investigators continue to gather evidence and record witness statements. Officials said additional details will be released as the inquiry progresses. Incidents of domestic violence remain a serious concern, with authorities emphasizing the importance of early intervention in family disputes and improved access to conflict resolution and mental health support where appropriate. Police have urged the public to report threats or violent behavior promptly to help prevent similar tragedies. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are expected to present the suspect before the relevant court in accordance with legal procedures. As with all criminal cases, the allegations against the accused remain subject to investigation and judicial determination.

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    Trump criticizes oil companies over high profits a…

    ByJustpaste.in

    US President Donald Trump has criticized major oil companies over their growing profits, saying that energy firms are earning excessive amounts of money amid rising fuel prices. His remarks come as global oil markets face uncertainty due to geopolitical tensions and disruptions affecting energy supplies. Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump said he supports free markets but expressed dissatisfaction with what he described as unusually high earnings by oil companies. He stated that while businesses have the right to operate freely, current market conditions have allowed some energy companies to generate profits beyond what he considers reasonable. The increase in crude oil prices has significantly boosted the revenues of several major energy companies worldwide. Market uncertainty linked to tensions between the United States and Iran has contributed to higher oil prices, creating favorable conditions for large oil producers and companies. Saudi Arabia’s state-owned oil giant Saudi Aramco reported a significant increase in quarterly profit, announcing earnings of $33.4 billion, compared with $25.2 billion during the same period last year. This represents a substantial rise in profits. US-based energy companies have also recorded strong financial results. ExxonMobil reported quarterly earnings of $14.5 billion, more than double compared with the previous year. Meanwhile, Chevron posted a profit of $12.1 billion, marking a significant increase from the same period previously. British energy company Shell also reported nearly $10 billion in quarterly profits, making it one of the company’s strongest financial performances in recent years. While energy companies benefit from higher crude oil prices, consumers in the United States have faced increased fuel costs. Average petrol prices have risen significantly since the beginning of the conflict-related market disruptions, adding further pressure on households already dealing with inflation. Fuel prices have become a major political issue ahead of the upcoming midterm elections. Lowering petrol costs has emerged as a key priority for the Trump administration, as high energy prices often influence public opinion and economic sentiment. A major factor behind the rise in oil prices has been disruption in key shipping routes, including the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important energy corridors. Reduced oil transportation through the region has affected global supply and contributed to market volatility. Although diplomatic efforts have reportedly aimed at reducing tensions and improving shipping access, uncertainty remains in global energy markets. Security concerns in the Red Sea and Bab el-Mandeb Strait have also affected oil transportation routes. Energy analysts believe that major oil companies may continue benefiting from elevated prices in the short term. However, they suggest that increased global supply or improved conditions in strategic waterways could eventually push crude oil prices lower. The ongoing debate highlights the challenge faced by governments worldwide: balancing energy company profits, market stability, and the need to provide affordable fuel for consumers.

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    Pakistan stock exchange slides over 1,100 points 

    ByJustpaste.in

      KARACHI: The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) experienced a volatile trading session on Tuesday as strong gains recorded in early trading quickly disappeared, with the benchmark KSE-100 Index ending the day more than 1,100 points lower. Widespread profit-taking in major sectors, combined with cautious investor sentiment influenced by global market uncertainty, weighed heavily on the market. The benchmark KSE-100 Index initially climbed to an intraday high of 178,768.83 points, reflecting optimism among investors during the opening hours. However, the momentum proved short-lived as selling pressure gradually intensified across the market. By the close of trading, the index had fallen to 177,083.22 points, registering a decline of 1,116.80 points, or 0.63%, after touching an intraday low of 177,043.10 points. Market participants attributed the sharp reversal to extensive profit-booking in several heavyweight sectors. Commercial banks, oil and gas exploration companies, cement manufacturers, investment firms, and fertiliser stocks all came under significant selling pressure, dragging the benchmark index into negative territory despite its promising start. Investor confidence also remained subdued due to mixed developments in international financial markets. Asian stock markets traded without a clear direction as investors balanced encouraging corporate earnings from the United States against continuing geopolitical tensions. At the same time, international oil prices climbed by more than two percent as uncertainty surrounding diplomatic efforts to ease tensions between the United States and Iran persisted. Concerns over potential disruptions to global oil supplies through major shipping routes also contributed to market caution. Commenting on the day’s performance, Ahmed Sheraz, an equity trader at KTrade Securities, said the KSE-100 Index remained under pressure throughout the session because the market lacked fresh positive catalysts capable of sustaining its recent upward momentum. According to him, the absence of encouraging economic or corporate developments prompted investors to lock in profits after recent gains. Sheraz noted that selling activity was widespread across key sectors, particularly banking, oil and gas, cement, investment companies, and fertilisers. He added that despite Brent crude oil trading between $84 and $86 per barrel, investors largely preferred to stay on the sidelines while waiting for stronger economic indicators and corporate earnings announcements before making new investment decisions. Looking ahead, Sheraz believes the stock market is likely to remain highly sensitive to news flow. Upcoming corporate earnings reports, macroeconomic indicators, and foreign investment activity are expected to play a decisive role in shaping market sentiment over the coming weeks. He also identified the 176,500 to 177,000-point range as an important technical support level for the benchmark index, suggesting that maintaining this level could help stabilise the market. Trading activity slowed compared with the previous session. Total market volume declined to 711.2 million shares, down from 785.3 million shares recorded on Monday. Meanwhile, the total value of traded shares stood at Rs25.8 billion. A total of 495 companiesparticipated in trading during the session. Among them, 161 stocks closed higher, 295 stocks ended in negative territory, while 39 stocks remained unchanged. Pakistan International Bulk Terminal emerged as the session’s most actively traded stock, with approximately 89.8 million shares changing hands. The company’s share price declined by Rs0.34, closing the session at Rs16.74.

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    Pakistan defeat South Korea to clinch test series …

    ByJustpaste.in

      ISLAMABAD:Pakistan’s national hockey team continued its impressive run by defeating South Korea in the third match of the four-Test series, securing an unassailable 3-0 lead and sealing the series with one game still to be played. The third Test, played at the Nasir Bunda Hockey Stadium in Islamabad, turned out to be an exciting contest filled with momentum shifts, dramatic goals, and a spirited comeback by the home side. Pakistan displayed resilience and determination, recovering from two separate deficits before claiming a memorable victory in front of the home crowd. South Korea made the stronger start and took the lead in the opening quarter. Their early pressure paid off in the 11th minute, when Lim Deun found the back of the net with a well-taken goal, giving the visitors a 1-0 advantage. Pakistan attempted to respond before the end of the first quarter but was unable to create a clear scoring opportunity. The second quarter saw Pakistan dominate possession and launch several attacks on the Korean goal. The hosts earned promising opportunities and repeatedly tested the opposition’s defence, but they failed to convert their chances into goals. South Korea remained organised at the back and successfully protected its narrow lead. As a result, neither side managed to score during the second quarter, and the visitors went into halftime leading 1-0. Pakistan finally restored parity in the third quarter when Hayat scored an important equaliser, lifting the spirits of both the players and the spectators. However, the celebrations were short-lived as South Korea responded quickly. Kim scored to put the visitors back in front, allowing Korea to end the third quarter with a 2-1 advantage. The fourth and final quarter produced the most thrilling action of the match, with a total of four goals scored. Pakistan came out with renewed energy and determination, pressing aggressively in search of another equaliser. Their persistence paid off as they erased South Korea’s lead and brought the match level once again. The visitors briefly regained the advantage by scoring another goal to make it 3-2 increasing the pressure on the Pakistani side. However, Pakistan refused to give up. During the final ten minutes, the home team produced an outstanding display of attacking hockey, dominating possession and creating multiple scoring opportunities. Pakistan’s relentless pressure eventually overwhelmed the Korean defence. The hosts not only equalised once more but also scored the decisive winning goal, completing a remarkable comeback. The Pakistani defence then held firm in the closing moments to preserve the lead until the final whistle, sealing another impressive victory. With this win, Pakistan secured a commanding 3-0 lead in the four-match Test series, ensuring the series title before the final fixture. The result reflects the team’s growing confidence and consistency, providing a major boost as it continues preparations for upcoming international competitions. Following the match, Pakistan Hockey Federation President Mohiuddin Wani distributed awards to the players in recognition of their performances. The ceremony was also attended by two legendary figures of Pakistan hockey, Olympians Samiullah and Hassan Sardar, who were present as special guests and applauded the team’s fighting spirit and successful series-winning performance.

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    PCB warns former cricketers over participation 

    ByJustpaste.in

      The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has taken serious notice of the participation of former Pakistani cricketers in the unauthorized Asian Legends League currently being held in Zambia. The board has announced strict disciplinary measures against any current or former player who participates in the event without obtaining prior approval through a No Objection Certificate (NOC). According to the PCB, the Asian Legends League is not recognized or approved by either the International Cricket Council (ICC) or the Zambia Cricket Union. As a result, the tournament is considered an unauthorized event, and players participating without official permission are deemed to be in violation of the board’s regulations. In an official statement, the PCB emphasized that all current and former Pakistani cricketers must obtain an NOC before taking part in any cricket event or league outside Pakistan. The board stressed that this requirement is in place to protect the integrity of the game, ensure player accountability, and maintain proper coordination with international cricket authorities. The PCB warned that any former cricketer found participating in the unauthorized league without receiving an NOC will face strict consequences. One of the key penalties announced by the board is a two-year ban on the issuance of any future NOCs. This means that players who violate the regulations will not be granted permission to participate in overseas cricket tournaments or exhibition events organized outside Pakistan during that period. In addition to restrictions on international participation, the PCB has also declared that individuals involved in the unauthorized league will be ineligible for coaching, mentoring, commentary, talent development, or any other official responsibilities associated with the Pakistan Cricket Board and the Pakistan Super League (PSL) for two years. The decision reflects the board’s intention to ensure that those associated with unauthorized competitions do not continue to benefit from official roles within Pakistan’s cricket structure. The board’s statement serves as a strong reminder that compliance with PCB regulations is mandatory for all Pakistani cricketers, regardless of whether they are active professionals or retired players. The NOC system is designed to regulate players’ participation in foreign leagues, safeguard contractual obligations, and ensure that events meet international standards and receive recognition from the relevant governing bodies. The PCB further advised all current and former players to verify the status of overseas tournaments before accepting invitations to participate. Players have been instructed to seek formal approval from the board in advance to avoid disciplinary action and ensure that the competitions they join are officially sanctioned. Cricket boards around the world often require players to obtain NOCs before participating in overseas leagues. These approvals help confirm that tournaments are legitimate, properly organized, and conducted under recognized cricketing authorities. The PCB’s latest decision reinforces its commitment to maintaining professionalism, protecting the reputation of Pakistani cricket, and ensuring that its players compete only in approved events. By announcing these strict measures, the Pakistan Cricket Board has sent a clear message that unauthorized participation in unrecognized tournaments will not be tolerated. The board hopes the policy will encourage greater discipline among players while preserving the credibility of Pakistan’s cricketing system. Going forward, all Pakistani cricketers are expected to strictly follow PCB regulations and obtain the necessary approvals before participating in any cricket event outside the country.