تازہ ترین

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    Pakistan unveils major construction reforms to boo…

    ByJustpaste.in

    ISLAMABAD: The federal government is preparing a wide-ranging reform package aimed at revitalising Pakistan’s construction industry, improving regulatory oversight and attracting greater investment in modern infrastructure. The proposed measures include the establishment of a Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB), consideration of a specialised Construction Development Bank (CDB), targeted tax reforms and changes to import and export policies. The proposals were discussed during a high-level meeting chaired by Federal Minister for Economic Affairs and Establishment Division Senator Ahad Khan Cheema. The meeting brought together senior government officials, representatives of the Construction Association of Pakistan and other stakeholders to examine the sector’s financial, regulatory and operational challenges. Under the proposed framework, the CIDB would promote the development of the construction industry while also regulating contractors, consultants and industry standards. The body would include representatives from both the public and private sectors and would seek to establish more consistent construction standards across the country. Senator Cheema said the government and the Construction Association of Pakistan were in agreement over the need for a dedicated regulatory and development body. The proposed framework will be presented to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for approval. The government also plans to introduce targeted tax incentives and rationalise import and export policies to encourage the use of modern construction technologies and strengthen local production capacity. In a significant move to improve the quality and durability of public infrastructure, the standard Defect Liability Period for public development projects is expected to increase from one year to three years, with a longer-term plan to extend it to five years. The proposed reforms would also increase accountability for consultants. Unlike contractors, who can face penalties for poor performance, consultants currently have limited direct legal accountability. Under the new framework, consultants could be subjected to regulatory oversight and held financially and legally responsible for design defects and technical errors. The government is also examining the construction industry’s difficulties in obtaining financial and performance guarantees. Senator Cheema directed Minister of State for Finance Bilal Azhar Kayani to consult the State Bank of Pakistan and Pakistan Banks Association on these issues and assess the feasibility of establishing a dedicated Construction Development Bank. The government says the reforms are intended to ensure that public infrastructure projects deliver better value for money, remain durable and meet higher technical standards. Officials believe stronger regulation and accountability could reduce disputes, improve construction quality and bring Pakistan’s industry closer to international standards.

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    TTP-linked suspect arrested in Karachi joint operation, weapons and explosives recovered

    ByJustpaste.in

    KARACHI: Pakistan Rangers (Sindh), in coordination with the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD), have arrested a suspected militant allegedly affiliated with the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) during an intelligence-based operation in Karachi, according to the Rangers spokesperson. The security agencies also recovered weapons and explosives from the suspect, who was allegedly involved in collecting funds for a TTP-linked faction and transferring money to its leadership, the spokesperson said on Sunday. The suspect was identified as Shahzad alias Dunger and was taken into custody during a joint operation conducted in the Jacob Lines area of Jamshed Town. Suspect allegedly joined TTP-linked group in 2025 According to the Rangers, Shahzad became associated with the Mansoor group of the TTP in 2025 after allegedly being influenced by the group’s leader, Mansoor. Investigators believe that the suspect was subsequently assigned the task of generating financial resources for the organisation in Karachi. The Rangers spokesperson said Shahzad allegedly approached individuals in the Manghopir area and persuaded them to make regular monthly payments to the militant group. The collected funds were then allegedly transferred to Waziristan through Easypaisa accounts provided by Din Muhammad, an alleged associate of Mansoor who was based in Tank. During interrogation, Shahzad reportedly told investigators that the money was ultimately transferred to Mansoor and used to support the group’s militant activities. Alleged meetings with militant leader The Rangers said the suspect had travelled to Waziristan several times and held clandestine meetings with Mansoor. According to the investigation, Shahzad allegedly met Mansoor in Birmal in June 2026, where he was instructed to expand and strengthen the group’s network in Karachi. The alleged objectives included carrying out terrorist activities and raising money through extortion, the Rangers said. Following the meeting, Mansoor allegedly arranged for weapons and explosives to be delivered to Shahzad through another unidentified associate. Security officials said the recovered material was allegedly intended for use in planned attacks against sensitive installations and locations in Karachi. Raids launched to trace other suspects The Rangers said further investigations were underway and raids were being conducted at different locations to identify and arrest other members of the suspected network. The operation comes amid continued efforts by law-enforcement and security agencies to disrupt militant financing, recruitment and operational networks in Karachi. Officials have increasingly focused on financial channels used by militant organisations, as investigators seek to prevent funds from reaching groups involved in terrorism. Karachi has witnessed several major security incidents The latest arrest comes against the backdrop of a series of major terrorist and militant attacks in Karachi in recent years. On June 28, security forces foiled an attempted attack on a Pakistan Rangers (Sindh) camp in the city. Three Rangers personnel were killed and four others were injured in the incident. According to the military’s media wing, the assault was carried out by militants described as “Khwarij belonging to Indian proxy, Jamaat-ul-Ahrar”. The attackers reportedly detonated an explosive at the main gate of the Rangers camp before attempting to penetrate the security perimeter. Security personnel resisted the assault, killing three attackers and capturing another militant in an injured condition. The captured suspect was identified as an Afghan national. The incident was described as one of the most serious attacks targeting security personnel in Karachi in recent years. Previous attacks raised security concerns Karachi has experienced several significant security incidents over the past few years, highlighting the continuing challenges faced by law-enforcement agencies in the country’s largest city. In April 2022, a suicide bombing outside Karachi University’s Confucius Institute killed several people, including Chinese nationals. The attack was claimed by the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA). In February 2023, militants launched an assault on the Karachi Police Office, leading to a prolonged security operation before the attackers were neutralised. Another major incident occurred in October 2024, when a bombing near Karachi Airport targeted a convoy and killed several people, including Chinese engineers. The incident further intensified concerns over the security of foreign nationals and critical infrastructure in the city. Against this backdrop, security agencies have continued intelligence-based operations aimed at dismantling militant networks before they can carry out attacks.

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    Munem Zafar accuses govt machinery of mishandling …

    ByJustpaste.in

    KARACHI: Jamaat-e-Islami Karachi Ameer Munem Zafar has accused government authorities of deliberately weakening the investigation into the Mir Raza Ali case, calling for the immediate arrest of those responsible. Speaking at a press conference at the Noor-e-Haq Institute, Zafar said the circumstances surrounding the case had raised serious questions. He pointed out that the incident was initially reported as a suicide, while findings that emerged following the exhumation presented a markedly different picture. Zafar said the government was responsible for ensuring a transparent investigation and bringing the people involved to justice. He alleged that the government machinery was instead being used to undermine the case. Turning to Karachi’s civic problems, the JI leader said a large part of the city was facing a severe water shortage. He accused the Water Corporation of becoming a centre of corruption and criticised the recent increase in water prices. Zafar also expressed concern over the city’s water supply from the Hub Canal, saying the situation had become evident to residents. He further criticised the disruption caused by the Red Line project, saying Karachi’s citizens were being subjected to considerable difficulties in the name of development.

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    Nick Reiner denied $1.5 million trust fund access

    ByJustpaste.in

    Nick Reiner has suffered another legal and financial setback following his indictment in connection with the deaths of his parents, filmmaker Rob Reiner and his wife, Michelle Reiner. The 32-year-old writer is reportedly being denied access to a trust fund worth more than $1.5 million as he prepares to fight the serious criminal charges against him. According to a report published on Saturday, August 15, a new trustee overseeing Reiner’s trust has refused his request to withdraw money from the account. Reiner had sought access to the funds to help cover his legal expenses and pay for basic necessities while he remains in custody. The decision is reportedly based on California’s so-called “slayer statute.” Such laws are designed to prevent an individual from financially benefiting from the death of someone they are accused of intentionally killing. The statute can restrict a person’s ability to inherit or receive assets connected to the alleged victim. Reiner’s trust was established by his parents after his birth in 1993 and is now valued at more than $1.5 million. In a court filing, Reiner claimed that he was expected to receive half of the trust once he reached the age of 30. However, he said that the money had never been transferred to him. He is now seeking access to the funds, arguing that they are needed to pay his attorneys and support himself while incarcerated. His request reportedly includes money for his commissary account, which he said would allow him to purchase everyday necessities such as socks and personal hygiene products. The dispute over the trust comes shortly after prosecutors secured an indictment against Reiner in the deaths of his parents. On Wednesday, August 12, a Los Angeles grand jury reportedly indicted him on two counts of first-degree murder. The charges relate to the deaths of Rob and Michelle Reiner. Prosecutors presented evidence to the grand jury, which ultimately determined that there was sufficient evidence for the case to proceed toward trial. The indictment also reportedly includes a special circumstance allegation of “lying in wait.” Prosecutors allege that Reiner deliberately waited for his parents before attacking them when they were vulnerable or unaware. The additional allegation could significantly increase the potential consequences if Reiner is ultimately convicted. Depending on how the case proceeds and the applicable sentencing rules, a conviction involving such circumstances could expose him to extremely severe punishment, including life imprisonment without parole or potentially the death penalty. For now, Reiner remains entitled to the presumption of innocence, and the allegations against him have yet to be proven in court. His ongoing legal battle now involves not only the murder charges but also an effort to gain access to the substantial trust established by his parents.

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    Travis Kelce proudly shows off his wedding band

    ByJustpaste.in

    Travis Kelce has caught fans’ attention after proudly showing off his wedding band during his latest public appearance. The Kansas City Chiefs star stepped out on Saturday, August 15, making his first solo appearance as his wife, pop superstar Taylor Swift, continues to enjoy her time in London. The 36-year-old NFL tight end arrived at Arrowhead Stadium ahead of the Kansas City Chiefs’ first preseason game. For the occasion, Kelce opted for a relaxed yet stylish outfit, wearing a black tie-dye shorts set paired with sunglasses and sneakers. While his casual appearance quickly caught the attention of fans, it was the gold wedding band on his left hand that became the main talking point. A video shared on the Chiefs’ official Instagram account showed Kelce confidently walking into the stadium while holding a canned drink. Fans were quick to zoom in on his hand and celebrate the visible symbol of his marriage to Swift. Many supporters reacted enthusiastically in the comments, with one fan writing, “Showing off that ringgggggg.” Another jokingly pointed out that Kelce appeared to have suddenly become left-handed because he was holding his drink with his left hand. Others affectionately referred to him as Taylor Swift’s husband, while one fan joked that anyone married to the global pop star would probably walk with the same confidence and swagger. Kelce’s appearance came just days after Swift was spotted enjoying a night out in London with friends. On Wednesday, August 12, the singer was reportedly seen leaving Annabel’s, a private members’ club, around midnight. She wore a floral purple minidress for the outing, marking one of her first solo public appearances since her reported wedding to Kelce. Swift and Kelce’s relationship began in the summer of 2023, when the NFL star famously revealed that he had attempted to meet the singer after attending her Eras Tour concert. Their romance soon became one of the most closely followed celebrity relationships worldwide. After dating for more than two years, the couple announced their engagement in August 2025 through a joint social media post featuring a series of romantic photographs. The pair later celebrated their marriage in a private and star-studded ceremony in New York City on July 3, 2026. The reported celebration took place at Madison Square Garden and featured several high-profile guests from the worlds of entertainment and sports. The ceremony was reportedly officiated by actor and comedian Adam Sandler, adding another memorable celebrity connection to the couple’s already highly publicized relationship. Now, Kelce’s simple decision to wear his wedding band prominently has once again given Swifties something to celebrate, with fans eagerly watching every detail of the couple’s newlywed life.

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    Pakistan seal seven-wicket win over County Select XI

    ByJustpaste.in

    BECKENHAM: Pakistan produced a strong second-half turnaround on Saturday, defeating the Professional County Club Select XI by seven wickets in their three-day practice match at the Kent County Cricket Ground. Chasing 262 runs for victory on the final day, Pakistan made the target look comfortable, reaching 265-3 in just 57.1 overs. The result provided an encouraging boost for the visitors ahead of their three-match Test series against England. The star of Pakistan’s successful chase was Saud Shakeel, who delivered a composed unbeaten century. Coming in at No. 3 after opener Azan Awais was dismissed for just one, Saud took control of the innings and finished with 100 not out from 147 balls, hitting 10 fours and three sixes. He found an ideal partner in Imam-ul-Haq, with the experienced opener producing an attacking 80 from 88 deliveries. Imam struck 13 boundaries and combined with Saud for a crucial 127-run partnership, effectively taking the game away from the hosts. Mohammad Rizwan added a useful 33, while Awais Zafar remained unbeaten on 30 to complete the chase. Earlier, the PCC Select XI resumed their second innings at 128-3, holding a 195-run lead. Pakistan’s bowlers, however, quickly turned the pressure into wickets. The hosts managed only 66 additional runs before being dismissed for 194. Falconer top-scored with 56, while Saif Zaib and Manny Lumsden contributed 24 each. Spinner Ali Usman was Pakistan’s standout bowler, finishing with an impressive five wickets for 42 runs. Ubaid Shah claimed two wickets for just nine runs, while Salman Ali Agha, Sajid Khan and Mohammad Ali took one apiece. The comeback victory comes at an important moment for Pakistan. With their first Test against England scheduled to begin in Leeds on August 19, the performances of Saud, Imam and the bowling attack offer Pakistan plenty of confidence. After struggling earlier in the match, Pakistan finished strongly — exactly the kind of response they will hope to carry into the Test series. Brief Scores Pakistan beat PCC Select XI by seven wickets PCC Select XI: 305 (S. Zaib 65, M. Fisher 62*, C. Falconer 59, T. Haines 51; M. Ali 3-23, M. Abbas 3-37) & 194 (C. Falconer 56, J. Rew 40; A. Usman 5-42, U. Shah 2-9) Pakistan: 238 (A. Shafique 61; S. Bashir 4-76) & 264-3 (S. Shakeel 100*, I. ul-Haq 80 retired not out) Result: Pakistan won by 7 wickets.

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    Noor Bukhari concerned over Moammar Rana’s health crisis

    ByJustpaste.in

    Noor Bukhari, a well-known former Pakistani film actress and model, has expressed concern over the deteriorating health of veteran actor Moammar Rana, saying she feels deeply saddened by his current condition and believes he needs strong support from his family. Noor began her acting career at a very young age and entered the Pakistani film industry when she was just 14. Over the years, she appeared in numerous successful films and worked with some of the biggest stars of her generation. Her notable projects include Mujhe Chaand Chahiye, Ghar Kab Aao Ge, Uff Yeh Larkiyan, and Main Noor Ka Parastaar Hoon. Alongside acting, she also explored other areas of the entertainment industry, including film direction, music videos and television commercials. The actress also remained in the spotlight because of her personal life and multiple marriages. In recent years, she made a major change in her lifestyle after leaving showbiz and turning towards Islam. She later remarried Aun Chaudhary, the father of her daughter, and has since focused much of her attention on her family and children. Recently, Noor appeared as a guest on Ambreen Fatima’s YouTube talk show, where she spoke openly about Moammar Rana and the concerns surrounding his health and reported alcohol addiction. While discussing the veteran actor, Noor described him as a good-hearted person and said she felt emotional after seeing some of his recent videos circulating on social media. She revealed that watching his reels had brought tears to her eyes because she could not understand how he had reached his current situation. Noor emphasized that Moammar Rana had always been regarded as a major star in the Pakistani film industry. According to her, audiences had seen him at the height of his career and would continue to remember him as a superstar. She expressed sadness that fans were now seeing him in a very different condition. The former actress also highlighted the importance of family support during difficult periods. She suggested that Moammar Rana’s wife and family should play a stronger role in helping him overcome his struggles. Noor said she was not certain about how much support he currently receives from his family, but believed that having loved ones around can make a significant difference when someone is going through a difficult phase. She further expressed her view that the actor may also be dealing with emotional or mental distress, adding another dimension to the concerns surrounding his well-being. Noor’s comments have drawn attention because of her personal experience in the Pakistani entertainment industry and her long-standing association with many prominent film personalities. Her remarks also reflect growing concern among fans over Moammar Rana’s current health and lifestyle. The veteran actor remains a respected name in Pakistani cinema, and Noor’s comments have once again sparked discussion about the importance of family, emotional support and care for public figures facing personal challenges.

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    Pakistan unveils five-year plan to revive hockey

    ByJustpaste.in

    ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) President Mohiuddin Ahmad Wani has unveiled an ambitious three-to-five-year roadmap aimed at rebuilding Pakistan’s national sport from the grassroots level and restoring the country’s competitiveness on the international stage. The plan comes at a difficult time for Pakistan hockey. The national team’s defeat against England in its opening match of the 2026 FIH Men’s Hockey World Cup has once again raised questions about the sport’s decline and the team’s ability to compete with the world’s leading sides. Wani said the federation wanted to move away from short-term decisions and instead build a sustainable system that could continuously produce quality players. “Our priority is not just to win one tournament but to rebuild the entire hockey ecosystem,” he said. Under the proposed system, young players would progress through school, district, provincial and national competitions before entering the senior setup. The PHF says the pathway will be based on merit, allowing talented players to rise through the ranks regardless of their background. The federation also plans to draw lessons from successful hockey systems in the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany and India. Greater emphasis will be placed on modern coaching, professional training methods and improved infrastructure. A major target is to increase the number of astro-turf facilities across Pakistan from the existing 52 to 100 within five years. The proposed facilities would not merely provide playing surfaces but also host coaching programmes, competitions and dedicated initiatives for women’s hockey. Coaching is another key part of the roadmap. Local coaches are expected to receive advanced training with the assistance of foreign experts, while the national side would be given greater international exposure through overseas tours and visits by foreign teams to Pakistan. The PHF also intends to improve financial incentives for players and provide clearer career opportunities, an important step toward encouraging talented youngsters to choose hockey as a long-term profession. The roadmap envisages grassroots and infrastructure development during the first year, stronger academies and coaching programmes in the second, followed by a performance review in the third year. Wani stressed that restoring Pakistan hockey would require sustained cooperation from governments, stakeholders and the public. The challenge is formidable, but the PHF hopes its long-term approach can turn Pakistan’s once-dominant hockey tradition into a competitive future rather than another chapter of sporting nostalgia.

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    When did Cristiano Ronaldo tell his family about his wedding?

    ByJustpaste.in

    Cristiano Ronaldo and Georgina Rodriguez appear to have kept their long-awaited wedding remarkably private, with reports suggesting that the football superstar informed his mother and siblings about the ceremony only moments before it took place. According to reports, Ronaldo and Rodriguez married on August 11, 2026, in an intimate ceremony in Portugal after nearly a decade together. The couple reportedly chose Ronaldo’s residence for the occasion, keeping the guest list extremely small. Only four witnesses and the couple’s children were said to have attended the ceremony. Ronaldo’s mother, Dolores Aveiro, and his three siblings were reportedly not present. Portuguese television presenter Cristina Ferreira claimed that Ronaldo’s family may have learned about the wedding only around 30 seconds before the ceremony. The surprising detail has attracted considerable attention, particularly because of the close relationship Ronaldo has maintained with his family throughout his career. Despite not attending the ceremony, Dolores appeared to publicly welcome the marriage. After Ronaldo shared photographs of the couple’s wedding rings, his mother responded with a heart emoji. The family’s relationship had previously been the subject of speculation after Georgina reportedly unfollowed Dolores on Instagram. Rumours of a disagreement quickly circulated online, but Dolores dismissed the reports, saying the social media action had simply been a mistake and that there was no family dispute. Ronaldo and Georgina have been together for almost 10 years and have built a family life largely away from the footballer’s professional commitments. Their relationship has attracted enormous international attention, making their decision to keep the wedding private particularly intriguing to fans. The couple made their first public appearance as husband and wife only days after the reported ceremony. They attended an Al Nassr vs Al Fateh match at Riyadh’s Al-Awwal Park with their children. Georgina appeared at the stadium wearing a striking golden silky jacket, while Ronaldo opted for an all-black outfit. The appearance gave fans their first glimpse of the newly married couple following their private celebration and added another memorable chapter to Ronaldo and Georgina’s high-profile relationship. While the reported 30-second family notification remains the most surprising detail surrounding the ceremony, the couple’s decision to celebrate quietly suggests they wanted the milestone to remain firmly within their immediate circle.

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    Pakistan women announce squads for Asia Cup and Asian Games

    ByJustpaste.in

    ISLAMABAD: Pakistan have announced their women’s cricket squads for the upcoming Women’s Asia Cup and Asian Games, with Fatima Sana set to lead the national side in both competitions as the team targets success on two major stages. The squads share a core group of players, including Muneeba Ali, Shawal Zulfiqar, Ayesha Zafar, Gul Feroza, Syra Jabeen, Eman Fatima, Eman Nasir, Umme Hani, Tuba Hassan, Nashra Sandhu and Momina Riaz. For the Women’s Asia Cup, Pakistan have added Najiha Alvi, Waheeda Akhtar and Sadia Yousuf to the squad. The Asian Games squad, meanwhile, includes Alia Riaz, Tasmia Rubab and Hamna Bilal. The national team will hold a training camp at the National Cricket Academy from August 16 to 25 as preparations intensify ahead of the two tournaments. The DP World Women’s Asia Cup will be played in Dubai from August 28 to September 13, with all 15 matches scheduled at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Matches will begin at 7:30pm Pakistan Standard Time. Pakistan have been placed in Group A alongside arch-rivals India, Thailand and China. Group B features Bangladesh, Indonesia, Sri Lanka and the United Arab Emirates. Pakistan will begin their Asia Cup campaign against Thailand on September 1, before facing India in a highly anticipated contest on September 5 in Dubai. The semi-finals are scheduled for September 10 and 11, while the final will take place on September 13. The team will then turn its attention to the 20th Asian Games, where the women’s cricket tournament will be held in Japan from September 17 to 22. Pakistan are seeded alongside Thailand and will play their quarter-final against Thailand on September 17. All women’s cricket matches will be staged at the Kurogiy Athletic Park in Aichi. If Pakistan advance, they will play the semi-final on September 20 against either Sri Lanka or Malaysia. The bronze and gold medal matches are scheduled for September 22. Pakistan enter the Asian Games with a proud record, having won women’s cricket gold medals at the 2010 Guangzhou and 2014 Incheon Asian Games. With a settled core, emerging talent and Fatima Sana leading both campaigns, Pakistan will hope to turn their preparation into another memorable chapter in women’s cricket. Pakistan women’s squad for ACC women’s Asia Cup  Fatima Sana (captain), Ayesha Zafar, Eman Naseer, Eyman Fatima, Gull Feroza, Momina Riasat, Muneeba Ali Siddiqui (wk), Najiha Alvi, Nashra Sundhu, Sadia Iqbal, Saira Jabeen, Shawaal Zulfiqar, Tuba Hassan, Umm-e-Hani, Waheeda Akhtar. Reserves – Tasmia Rubab, Humna Bilal, Maham Anees, Sadaf Shamas Support Staff Wahab Riaz (coach/mentor), Ayesha Ashar (team manager), Abdur Rehman (spin bowling coach), Umaid Asif (fast bowling coach), Abdul Majeed (fielding coach), Imran Farhat (batting coach), Waleed Ahmed (performance analyst), Moeen (strength & conditioning coach), Dur Samand (Physiotherapist) and Raza Rashid Kitchlew (media manager) Pakistan women’s squad for Asian Games  Fatima Sana (captain), Aliya Riaz, Ayesha Zafar, Eman Naseer, Eyman Fatima, Gull Feroza, Humna Bilal, Momina Riasat, Muneeba Ali Siddiqui (wk), Nashra Sundhu, Saira Jabeen, Shawaal Zulfiqar, Tasmia Rubab, Tuba Hassan and Umm-e-Hani. Reserves – Natalia Parvaiz, Waheeda Akhtar, Sadia Iqbal, Syeda Aroob Shah, Rameen Shamim Support Staff Wahab Riaz (coach/mentor), Ayesha Ashar (team manager), Abdur Rehman (spin bowling coach), Umaid Asif (fast bowling coach), Abdul Majeed (fielding coach), Imran Farhat (batting coach), Waleed Ahmed (performance analyst) and Tehreem Sumbal (physiotherapist) Schedule of Pakistan’s matches at the ACC women’s Asia Cup: (All matches at Dubai International Cricket Stadium; all matches to begin at 7.30pm PKT) 1 September – Pakistan v Thailand 5 September – Pakistan v India 7 September – Pakistan v Hong Kong, China 10 September – semi-final 1 11 September – semi-final 2 13 September – final Pakistan women at Asian Games (All matches at Korogi Athletic Park in Aichi prefecture) 17 September – Quarter-final 4 – Pakistan v Thailand 20 September – Semi-final 1 & 2 22 September – Bronze and Gold Medal matches