تازہ ترین

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    Harper’s brisk knock powers Galle to strong total against Dambulla

    ByJustpaste.in

    Sam Harper struck a quickfire 40 off just 22 balls to lay the foundation for a strong total from Galle Gallants against Dambulla Sixers in the eighth fixture of the Lanka Premier League 2026 at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium on Wednesday. Batting first after winning the toss, Galle posted 178 for 8 across their full 20 overs, with Harper’s early aggression setting the tone for the innings. Dambulla Sixers named a playing eleven of Marques Ackermann, Niroshan Dickwella as wicketkeeper, Reeza Hendricks, Pavan Rathnayake, Gulbadin Naib, Vishva Lahiru, Sachitha Jayatillake, Ramesh Mendis, Maheesh Theekshana, captain Dushmantha Chameera and Fazalhaq Farooqi. Galle Gallants fielded Lasith Croospulle, Sam Harper as wicketkeeper, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Charith Asalanka, captain Dasun Shanaka, Mohammad Nawaz, Chamika Karunaratne, Dinura Kalupahana, Sahan Arachchige, Akif Javed and Vijayakanth Viyaskanth. More details on the match are expected to follow as the innings progresses.

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    Heavy monsoon rains claim 17 lives across Punjab

    ByJustpaste.in

    Heavy monsoon rains continued to lash several parts of Punjab during the past 24 hours, causing urban flooding, traffic disruptions, power outages and loss of life. Authorities remained on high alert as widespread rainfall affected both central and northern districts, prompting emergency response teams to intensify drainage operations across the province. According to the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), Gujranwala recorded the highest rainfall with 245 millimetres, making it one of the hardest-hit cities. Lahore received 123 millimetres of rain, while Sialkot recorded 139 millimetres, Mandi Bahauddin 138 millimetres, Narowal 117 millimetres and Gujrat 95 millimetres. Other districts also experienced significant rainfall, including Hafizabad with 85 millimetres, Chakwal 70 millimetres, Okara 64 millimetres, Jhang 35 millimetres, Layyah 33 millimetres and Jhelum 32 millimetres. The PDMA said at least 17 people have died in rain-related incidents since the start of the monsoon season. Twelve of the fatalities occurred after houses and other structures collapsed during heavy rainfall. Two people lost their lives after being struck by lightning, while three others died from electrocution caused by rain-related electrical hazards. The continuous downpour led to waterlogging in many urban areas, disrupting normal life and slowing traffic on major roads. Several low-lying neighborhoods remained inundated for hours, creating difficulties for commuters and residents. In Gujranwala, the Shamsi Underpass was completely submerged, forcing motorists to use alternative routes as traffic through the area became impossible. Lahore also witnessed widespread water accumulation on roads in several localities, including Johar Town, Township, Ferozepur Road, Multan Road, Samanabad, Gulshan-i-Ravi, Model Town, Lakshmi Chowk and surrounding areas. Motorists struggled to navigate flooded streets, while residents in various neighborhoods reported prolonged electricity outages following the heavy rain. The Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) said emergency teams remained active throughout the province to clear drains and remove standing water. Officials said drainage operations were continuing in 41 districts, while monitoring of rivers, dams and barrages had been intensified due to the ongoing monsoon spell. In Gujrat, WASA deployed 20 emergency teams across three operational zones to ensure the timely drainage of rainwater. Officials said major roads remained open and traffic continued to move despite the heavy rainfall. Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz urged citizens to avoid unnecessary travel during severe weather conditions and warned people not to enter canals, rivers or rainwater drains, saying such areas become extremely dangerous during the monsoon season.

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    Karachi government colleges announce Intermediate …

    ByJustpaste.in

    The Sindh College Education Department has officially announced the merit list for Intermediate admissions in government colleges across Karachi, marking an important step for thousands of students seeking admission after completing their matriculation. The newly published lists include the names of students who have successfully secured seats in various government colleges based on merit. According to the department, admissions have been granted strictly on academic performance, ensuring a transparent and fair selection process. Students who have been selected are advised to review the merit list carefully and complete all remaining admission formalities within the given deadline. Officials have confirmed that more than 160,000 applications were received for Intermediate admissions from across Sindh this year. Karachi alone accounted for the largest share, with 98,646 students applying for admission to government colleges. The high number of applications reflects the growing demand for quality public education in the city. The Directorate General of Colleges has instructed all selected students to confirm their admission no later than July 31. Candidates who fail to complete the confirmation process within the deadline may lose their allotted seats, which could then be offered to other eligible applicants under the merit system. Students are encouraged to check their admission status through the official admission portal or by visiting their allocated college. They should also ensure that all required documents are submitted on time to avoid unnecessary delays in the admission process. The education department has emphasized that admissions are being conducted entirely on merit, with students placed in colleges according to their academic scores and available seats. Those who were not selected in the first list may still have an opportunity if additional merit lists are released after the confirmation period. Education experts advise students and parents to stay updated with official announcements and complete every admission requirement before the deadline. Timely confirmation is essential for securing a place in the preferred college and beginning the new academic session without complications. With thousands of students preparing to start their Intermediate education, the release of the merit list represents a significant milestone in the annual admission process. Applicants should act promptly to secure their seats and ensure a smooth transition into the next stage of their academic journey.

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    Houthi blockade threatens Saudi oil exports to Asia

    ByJustpaste.in

    Saudi Arabia’s oil exports to Asia are facing fresh uncertainty after Yemen’s Houthi movement announced a blockade targeting Saudi ports in the Red Sea, raising fears of major disruptions to global energy supplies and higher oil prices. The impact became evident after two oil tankers carrying nearly 2.8 million barrels of Saudi crude reversed course in the Red Sea instead of continuing through the Bab al-Mandeb Strait. The vessels had departed from the Saudi port of Yanbu and were originally bound for Asian markets. The latest development has created concerns over the security of Saudi Arabia’s alternative export route. For months, the kingdom relied heavily on its Red Sea pipeline network and Yanbu terminal to bypass disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, where regional tensions have significantly reduced shipping traffic. With Bab al-Mandeb now under threat, Saudi Arabia’s backup route is also facing serious challenges. Energy analysts warn that this could restrict oil exports, tighten global supplies and increase pressure on international crude prices. Asian countries are expected to suffer the greatest impact because they depend heavily on Middle Eastern oil. Around six million barrels of crude oil pass through Bab al-Mandeb every day on their way to Asian markets, with Saudi Arabia accounting for nearly two-thirds of that volume. India is considered the most vulnerable, as more than half of its crude oil imports travel through the Red Sea route. Pakistan is also among the affected countries, with around 36 percent of its crude imports passing through Bab al-Mandeb. Other major importers exposed to disruptions include the Philippines, South Korea, Japan, Taiwan and China. To avoid conflict zones, shipping companies are evaluating a much longer route through Egypt’s Suez Canal, the Mediterranean Sea and around Africa’s Cape of Good Hope before heading towards Asia. Although this route bypasses both the Strait of Hormuz and Bab al-Mandeb, it comes with significant drawbacks. The journey could take more than twice as long, extending delivery times by several weeks. Longer voyages would also increase fuel consumption, insurance costs and freight charges, making crude oil more expensive for buyers. Logistical challenges further complicate the situation. Most Saudi crude from Yanbu is transported on Very Large Crude Carriers (VLCCs), which are too large to pass through the Suez Canal when fully loaded. Operators would need to either transfer part of the cargo through Egypt’s SUMED pipeline or use smaller tankers, both of which would add time and operational costs. Energy experts believe these limitations could reduce Saudi Arabia’s export capacity even if alternative shipping routes remain available. Some refiners in Asia have already started preparing for longer supply routes, while shipping companies are adjusting vessel schedules in anticipation of prolonged disruptions. Analysts also warn that if instability continues in both the Strait of Hormuz and Bab al-Mandeb, the consequences could extend beyond shipping. Higher transportation costs, tighter crude supplies and increased demand for oil tankers could push global oil prices above the $100-per-barrel mark. Alternative supplies from countries such as Russia, the United States and Venezuela may help ease shortages, but those options are limited by production constraints, longer shipping distances and higher transportation expenses.

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    Dhurandhar actress Ayesha Khan detained by Mumbai police, questions their silence

    ByJustpaste.in

    Actress Ayesha Khan has spoken out against the Mumbai Police and was briefly detained during a protest in the city. Ayesha rose to fame with her song ‘Shararat’ in Dhurandhar. She was earlier a wildcard entry on Bigg Boss 17. She has also appeared in ‘Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon 2’. The actress was picked up near Dadar where she went in solidarity with student protesters. The students are demanding answers over the NEET paper leak and several have died by suicide amid the fallout. Ayesha said she was not part of the actual protest. She had only stopped because her brother and male friends were already detained. In emotional videos on Instagram, she said her hands were shaking. She shared that she did not raise a single slogan, yet she was pulled into the police van. She said several policewomen had to escort her by force. She was later moved from Dadar to Worli police station and two of her female friends were with her. She kept asking police why she was detained but no one gave her a clear answer. In another post, Ayesha claimed that she was dragged despite standing peacefully and her questions to police went unanswered. The Mumbai protest is linked to a larger movement. It began in Delhi under the Cockroach Janta Party and students and activists are behind the push. Their ‘Chalo Sansad’ drive has now spread nationwide. They demand the government to act on the NEET paper leak and deeper flaws in the education system. Ayesha is known for speaking up on social issues. She has a strong following online and one of several people detained as police cleared the area in Dadar. Her videos are now circulating widely while many are waiting to see if the Mumbai police will respond to her questions.

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    Kusal Mendis ruled out of LPL 2026 With hamstring injury

    ByJustpaste.in

    Sri Lanka’s ODI captain Kusal Mendis has been ruled out of the remainder of the Lanka Premier League (LPL) 2026 after suffering a hamstring injury during Colombo Caps’ match against Kandy Royals. The wicketkeeper-batter sustained the injury while attempting a run during the contest, although Colombo Caps went on to register a six-wicket victory. Following medical assessments, Sri Lanka Cricket confirmed that Mendis will begin his rehabilitation at the National High Performance Centre. His absence is a significant setback for Colombo Caps, who have appointed Kamindu Mendis as captain for the rest of the tournament. The injury also raises concerns for Sri Lanka ahead of their two-match series against India, scheduled to begin on August 15. Mendis is a key member of the national side across formats and was expected to play a leading role, including wicketkeeping duties. However, officials have not yet announced a timeline for his recovery. Before the injury, Mendis had been in outstanding form. He opened his LPL campaign with a brilliant 79-run knock against Galle Gallants and continued to demonstrate the consistency that has made him one of Sri Lanka’s most dependable batters. Earlier this year, he enjoyed a memorable Pakistan Super League season, scoring 550 runs in 11 innings at an impressive strike rate of 168.19, making him one of the competition’s standout performers. Mendis has also carried that momentum into international cricket in 2026, scoring 408 runs in 14 innings across all formats. In One-Day Internationals alone, he has accumulated 211 runs in four innings at an outstanding average of 70.33. Sri Lanka’s medical staff will now closely monitor his recovery, hoping the experienced batter regains full fitness in time for the upcoming international assignments. His absence from the remainder of the LPL is a major blow for Colombo Caps as they continue their campaign without their captain and leading run-scorer.

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    Pakistan, European Union reaffirm commitment to st…

    ByJustpaste.in

      Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar met with the European Union’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, in Manila, where both sides reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening cooperation under the Pakistan-European Union Strategic Engagement Plan. According to Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the meeting focused on enhancing bilateral relations and expanding collaboration in areas of mutual interest. The two leaders discussed ways to deepen political dialogue, economic cooperation, and strategic engagement while emphasizing the importance of maintaining close coordination on regional and global issues. During the meeting, Ishaq Dar and Kaja Kallas also exchanged views on the evolving situation involving the United States and Iran. Both sides discussed recent regional developments and stressed the importance of preventing further escalation that could threaten peace and stability in the wider region. They agreed that continued dialogue and diplomatic engagement remain essential in addressing international challenges and resolving disputes through peaceful means. The Foreign Office stated that both leaders recognized diplomacy as the only effective and sustainable path to ensuring lasting peace and stability. They emphasized that constructive dialogue, mutual respect, and international cooperation are critical to reducing tensions and promoting regional security. The discussion reflected a shared understanding of the need for peaceful conflict resolution in an increasingly complex global environment. A key area of discussion was the Pakistan-European Union Strategic Engagement Plan, which serves as the framework for cooperation across a broad range of sectors, including trade, governance, climate action, human rights, education, and sustainable development. Both sides reaffirmed their determination to continue working together under this framework and to further strengthen institutional ties between Pakistan and the European Union. The meeting also highlighted the importance of expanding economic cooperation. Pakistan reiterated its commitment to strengthening trade and investment relations with the European Union, which remains one of the country’s largest trading partners. Both sides acknowledged the value of continued economic engagement in supporting sustainable growth, job creation, and long-term prosperity. According to the Foreign Office, Pakistan reaffirmed its commitment to the effective implementation of all international conventions linked to the European Union’s Generalised Scheme of Preferences Plus (GSP+) programme. The GSP+ status provides Pakistan with preferential access to European markets, benefiting several export sectors, particularly textiles and garments. Islamabad emphasized that it remains committed to fulfilling its obligations under the programme by implementing the relevant international conventions related to human rights, labour standards, environmental protection, and good governance. The two sides also discussed the importance of maintaining regular dialogue to address shared challenges and explore new opportunities for cooperation. They expressed satisfaction with the positive trajectory of Pakistan-European Union relations and agreed to continue working closely to achieve common objectives. The meeting in Manila reflects the ongoing efforts by both Pakistan and the European Union to further strengthen their partnership through constructive engagement, expanded economic cooperation, and coordinated diplomatic efforts. As global and regional challenges continue to evolve, both sides reaffirmed that sustained dialogue and collaboration remain essential for promoting peace, stability, and mutually beneficial relations. The discussions concluded with a renewed commitment to advancing bilateral ties, reinforcing strategic cooperation, and building a stronger partnership that supports shared interests and contributes to regional and international stability.

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    71-year-old hero saves man from drowning in Anhui …

    ByJustpaste.in

    A 71-year-old woman in China has been praised for her extraordinary courage after rescuing a drowning man who had jumped into a river during an apparent suicide attempt. The remarkable incident, which took place in Suixi County in Anhui Province, has attracted widespread attention after authorities identified the elderly rescuer through CCTV footage. According to local reports, the incident occurred on July 13, when a man in his 30s jumped from a bridge into the river after reportedly struggling with family-related problems. Witnesses nearby quickly realized someone had fallen into the water, creating panic among those gathered at the scene. Among the bystanders was Liu Defang, a 71-year-old retired woman who was talking with friends near the bridge. As soon as she heard people shouting that someone was in the river, she rushed toward the riverbank without hesitation. Grabbing a floating rescue aid, she immediately jumped into the water to reach the struggling man. Liu later explained that she initially believed the person in the water was a child. However, after swimming closer, she discovered it was an adult man. Despite trying to rescue him, the man resisted because he reportedly did not want to be saved. Even so, Liu held onto him firmly and refused to let go. The rescue proved extremely challenging. Battling strong currents and exhaustion, Liu spent nearly 20 minutes keeping the man afloat before managing to guide him toward the riverbank. Once they reached shallow water, two nearby individuals helped pull the man safely onto dry land. After ensuring the man was safe, Liu quietly left the area without seeking recognition or praise. She later said she did not consider her actions extraordinary and chose not to tell her family because she did not want them to worry about the risks she had taken. Police later searched the surrounding area using CCTV footage to identify the mystery rescuer. After the videos were shared online, Liu’s older brother recognized her and contacted authorities, bringing her inspiring story to public attention. Liu Defang learned swimming after retirement and regularly practices yoga to stay active. Her bravery and quick response have earned admiration across China, with many people describing her as a true hero whose selfless actions saved a life when every second mattered.

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    Why did Zelensky sack his Army Chief?

    ByJustpaste.in

    Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has removed the country’s top military commander, General Oleksandr Syrskyi, in a major change to Ukraine’s military leadership as the war with Russia enters its fifth year. The decision comes during a difficult period for Ukraine, where fighting continues on several front lines and pressure is mounting on the government to improve military performance. General Syrskyi had been serving as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. He was responsible for leading the country’s military operations against Russian forces. President Zelensky announced that General Mykhailo Drapatyi will replace him as the new army chief. In his statement, Zelensky thanked Syrskyi for his service and praised Ukrainian soldiers for defending the country. However, he said Ukraine now needs a “reset” in military leadership to strengthen operations, improve coordination among commanders and address challenges related to troop mobilisation and battlefield management. The leadership change comes only a few days after Zelensky removed Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov from office. That decision sparked public protests in the capital, Kyiv, with many people expressing concern about changes in the country’s defence leadership while the war is still ongoing. Who is Oleksandr Syrskyi? General Oleksandr Syrskyi is one of Ukraine’s most experienced military officers. He was born in Russia in 1965 when both Russia and Ukraine were part of the former Soviet Union. During his early military career, he served in Soviet forces before choosing to remain in Ukraine after it became an independent country in 1991. Over the years, Syrskyi rose through the ranks of the Ukrainian military. In 2014, he led Ukrainian forces during fighting against Russian-backed separatists in eastern Ukraine. When Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Syrskyi became one of the country’s most important military commanders. He played a leading role in defending the capital, Kyiv, from Russian attacks during the early weeks of the war. His leadership was widely praised, and he later received Ukraine’s highest national honour, the title of “Hero of Ukraine.” He was also credited with planning Ukraine’s successful counteroffensive in the Kharkiv region in 2022. During that operation, Ukrainian forces regained control of several key cities that had been occupied by Russian troops. Why was he removed? President Zelensky has not accused Syrskyi of any wrongdoing. Instead, he said the leadership change is aimed at improving Ukraine’s military strategy as the war continues. Reports suggest there had been disagreements within Ukraine’s defence leadership over military reforms, mobilisation policies and battlefield planning. Former Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov had previously criticised Syrskyi, saying some reforms were progressing too slowly. The appointment of General Mykhailo Drapatyi is seen as an attempt to bring fresh leadership and improve cooperation between military commanders and government officials. Ukraine has changed several military leaders This is not the first time Ukraine has replaced senior defence officials since the war began. In September 2023, Defence Minister Oleksii Reznikov left office after corruption allegations involving the defence ministry. In February 2024, General Valerii Zaluzhnyi, who was one of Ukraine’s most popular military commanders, was replaced by Syrskyi as commander-in-chief. Several other senior officers have also been reassigned as Ukraine continues to adjust its military leadership during the conflict. Russia has also changed its commanders Russia has also replaced several top military officials since launching its invasion of Ukraine. The commander of Russia’s Black Sea Fleet was removed after the sinking of the warship Moskva in 2022. Major General Ivan Popov was dismissed after publicly criticising Russia’s military strategy. General Sergey Surovikin, who once commanded Russia’s aerospace forces, was also removed following the failed Wagner Group rebellion in 2023. Why does this matter? Military leadership plays a crucial role in any war. Commanders make important decisions about troop movements, battlefield tactics, defence planning and military operations. Ukraine hopes the appointment of General Drapatyi will strengthen its armed forces at a time when Russia continues to launch attacks across different regions. The change also reflects Kyiv’s effort to improve military efficiency and prepare for future operations

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    Israel erupts over reported US-Saudi nuclear deal …

    ByJustpaste.in

    Israel’s opposition leaders have sharply criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for remaining silent over reports of a proposed civil nuclear agreement between the United States and Saudi Arabia. The reported deal has sparked concerns among Israeli politicians, who argue it could have significant security implications for the Middle East. According to Israeli media, former Defense Minister Avigdor Lieberman described the proposed agreement as a strategic threat to Israel. He argued that civil nuclear programs can eventually pave the way for military nuclear capabilities, pointing to Iran as an example. Lieberman warned that allowing Saudi Arabia to enrich uranium on its own territory would cross a major security red line and could encourage a regional nuclear arms race. Lieberman also expressed concern that nuclear facilities in Saudi Arabia could become potential targets in any future conflict involving Iran. He urged the Israeli government to actively oppose the agreement and lobby members of the US Congress to reject it, even if doing so creates disagreements with US President Donald Trump. Former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak also questioned the reported agreement, noting that it reportedly does not require Saudi Arabia to normalize diplomatic relations with Israel. According to Barak, the absence of such a condition could indicate reduced trust between Netanyahu and the US administration. Meanwhile, Democratic Party leader Yair Golan blamed Netanyahu’s policies for creating conditions that made such an agreement possible. He argued that if Saudi Arabia secures a favorable nuclear cooperation deal, other countries in the Middle East may seek similar agreements with Washington, potentially reshaping the region’s strategic balance. Reports in the Israeli newspaper Haaretz suggest that Israeli officials are particularly concerned about the possibility of Saudi Arabia being allowed to enrich uranium domestically. One Israeli source reportedly said such a provision would not be viewed positively in Israel, even if it were accompanied by future normalization between Saudi Arabia and Israel. The debate follows reports published by The Wall Street Journal, which claimed that President Donald Trump has approved a framework for a civil nuclear cooperation agreement with Saudi Arabia. According to the report, the proposed agreement could run for 30 years and involve investments worth several billion dollars. It would reportedly provide Saudi Arabia with access to civilian nuclear technology for energy production, while discussions continue over whether uranium enrichment would be permitted under the deal. Although negotiations over US-Saudi nuclear cooperation have continued for years, the reported agreement remains closely watched because of its potential impact on regional security, energy cooperation, and future diplomatic relations in the Middle East.