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    ‘Can’t wait to watch Abdullah Shafique in England’, says Ian Bishop

    ByJustpaste.in

    Former West Indies fast bowler and renowned cricket commentator Ian Bishop believes Pakistan opener Abdullah Shafique has the temperament and technique to succeed in English conditions, saying he is eager to watch the young batter during the upcoming Test series against England. Shafique has emerged as one of Pakistan’s most dependable red-ball batters following his remarkable performances against the West Indies, and Bishop feels the 26-year-old has all the qualities needed to handle one of cricket’s toughest challenges. Speaking about the Pakistani opener, Bishop described Shafique as a calm and composed batter who remains patient even in difficult situations. “Abdullah Shafique is a composed batter who knows how to build an innings under pressure,” Bishop said, adding that such qualities are crucial for success in England, where swinging conditions and disciplined bowling regularly test even the world’s best players. The former West Indies pacer acknowledged that English pitches present a unique challenge but noted that Shafique already has valuable experience after representing Yorkshire in county cricket. Although that exposure will help him adapt more quickly, Bishop stressed that delivering consistently in England remains a demanding task for any international batter. Shafique’s confidence has soared after his outstanding performance in the recently concluded Test series against the West Indies. Drafted into Pakistan’s squad after Shan Masood suffered an injury, the right-handed opener seized the opportunity in spectacular fashion. He remained unbeaten on 160, producing one of the finest innings of his career and becoming the first Pakistani batter in 49 years to score 150 or more runs in a Test innings in the West Indies. The memorable knock not only strengthened Pakistan’s batting lineup but also reinforced Shafique’s reputation as one of the country’s brightest Test prospects. With Pakistan set to face England in a highly anticipated Test series, fans and cricket experts alike will be watching closely to see whether Abdullah Shafique can carry his superb form into English conditions and establish himself among the world’s elite opening batters.

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    Pakistan targets 90% clean electricity by 2035, says Awais Leghari

    ByJustpaste.in

    Federal Minister for Power Awais Leghari outlined Pakistan’s long-term strategy to transform its electricity sector, setting an ambitious target of raising the share of clean energy in the national power mix to 90 percent by 2035. The announcement came during the Solar, Storage and Flexibility 2026 Conference, where the minister also highlighted key policy hurdles, including restrictions under Pakistan’s International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme that are delaying the introduction of a market-based electricity pricing mechanism. Speaking at the conference on Tuesday, Leghari said the government was pursuing a major shift in energy policy by moving away from a traditional generation-focused model towards a system centred on grid flexibility, energy security, battery storage and domestic manufacturing. He said the new approach is designed to reduce Pakistan’s dependence on imported fuels, shield consumers from volatile global energy prices and maximise the benefits of the country’s rapidly expanding solar sector. The minister said Pakistan has witnessed remarkable growth in rooftop solar installations, with nearly 38 gigawatts of distributed solar capacity now installed through private consumer investment. He described the rapid adoption of rooftop solar as one of the country’s biggest energy success stories but cautioned that it has also created new challenges for the national power system. According to Leghari, Pakistan generates significant amounts of electricity from solar energy during daylight hours, yet the absence of sufficient battery storage infrastructure prevents that surplus electricity from being utilised during evening peak demand. He stressed that without modern storage systems, the country would continue to struggle with balancing electricity supply and demand despite having abundant renewable energy resources. Referring to disruptions in Re-gasified Liquefied Natural Gas (RLNG) supplies earlier this year, the minister said the episode exposed Pakistan’s continued dependence on imported fuels. He noted that the interruption in fuel supplies led to electricity shortages and load shedding even though ample solar power was available during the daytime, highlighting the urgent need for large-scale energy storage. “Battery storage is no longer an optional technology—it has become a strategic national asset that is essential for ensuring Pakistan’s energy sovereignty,” Leghari said. He noted that clean energy sources, including hydropower, nuclear, wind and solar, currently contribute approximately 55 percent of Pakistan’s total electricity generation. However, he warned that achieving the government’s renewable energy targets would require significant investment in battery storage systems, transmission infrastructure and power market reforms. The minister emphasised that expanding renewable generation alone would not be sufficient unless supported by a modern electricity network capable of storing and transmitting clean energy efficiently. To support the country’s long-term energy transition, Leghari announced a three-point strategy. The plan includes expanding battery energy storage systems across the national grid, encouraging local battery manufacturing and assembly to reduce reliance on imports while creating employment opportunities, and introducing regulatory reforms aimed at providing long-term certainty and confidence for domestic and foreign investors. During a question-and-answer session following his address, the minister also disclosed that Pakistan’s commitments under the IMF programme currently limit the government’s ability to introduce a fully flexible, market-based electricity tariff system. He explained that the government has been in discussions with the IMF for several months regarding the introduction of a time-of-use tariff, under which electricity prices would vary according to the actual cost of power generation at different hours of the day. Such a system, he said, would encourage consumers to shift electricity consumption to off-peak periods, reduce pressure on the national grid and help integrate renewable energy more efficiently.

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    Jennifer Aniston’s new focus has friends worried

    ByJustpaste.in

    Jennifer Aniston is reportedly making a major life shift that has left people close to her uneasy. A source close to the actress shared details with Closer magazine. According to the insider, Aniston’s priorities have visibly changed in recent months. She is said to be turning down acting work at a notable rate. Instead, she is putting most of her energy into supporting boyfriend Jim Curtis and his career. The source suggested her involvement goes well beyond typical relationship support. Curtis works as a hypnotherapist, life coach and author. His work centeres on subconscious reprogramming and emotional healing techniques, according to earlier reporting. He also has a son named Aidan from a previous marriage. The insider went further, claiming Aniston may be considering training as a hypnotherapist herself. There is reportedly talk of her getting involved in his business on a deeper level. Friends worry this signals a bigger shift away from her acting career. The source added that people around her have noticed the change. They worry she’s making a mistake at the expense of her career. The comment reflects growing concern within her circle about her shifting priorities. Over the past year, Aniston has reportedly stepped back from projects she once seemed committed to. One notable example involves a planned TV adaptation. It was based on Jennette McCurdy’s bestselling memoir, “I’m Glad My Mom Died.” Aniston had appeared aligned with the project for months before pulling back. Fans and industry watchers have taken note of her reduced on-screen presence lately. Some see it as a natural pause after decades in the spotlight. Others share the concerns raised by those close to her. For now, neither Aniston nor her representatives have addressed these claims publicly. It remains unclear whether her career pace will pick back up soon. Her relationship with Curtis, meanwhile, appears to be deepening steadily.

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    Stray SpaceX rocket believed to have struck Moon

    ByJustpaste.in

    A discarded section of a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket is believed to have crashed into the Moon, giving scientists a rare opportunity to study the effects of a known impact on the lunar surface. The object, a 4,000-kilogram upper stage left in space after a January 2025 mission, was expected to strike the Moon at around 07:35 BST after spending more than a year drifting through space. Scientists say the rocket stage gradually shifted onto a collision course due to the combined gravitational pull of the Earth, Moon and Sun. The impact is not considered dangerous to Earth, according to NASA, which plans to analyse the event to improve its understanding of lunar geology and refine methods for tracking objects in space. Although the collision itself was too faint to be seen with the naked eye, astronomers using powerful telescopes are monitoring the Moon for signs of a fresh crater and a plume of dust created by the impact. Researchers are now comparing before-and-after images of the lunar surface to identify the exact location of the strike. NASA’s Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter and South Korea’s Danuri lunar spacecraft are expected to capture images of the impact site in the coming days. Scientists say processing and analysing the data could take several days or even weeks before the first confirmed images are released. Experts describe the incident as a valuable scientific experiment because the size, speed and mass of the object were known in advance. Unlike natural meteor impacts, the predictable nature of the collision allows researchers to better understand how craters form and how lunar material behaves after a high-speed impact. However, astronomers also say the incident highlights the growing problem of space debris. Thousands of human-made objects now remain on or around the Moon, and experts warn that increasing congestion in space could pose challenges for future exploration missions if debris is not managed more effectively. Meanwhile, SpaceX continues its regular launch operations. The company successfully launched another Falcon 9 rocket from Florida on a separate mission carrying satellites into orbit, underscoring the growing pace of space activity as agencies and private companies expand their exploration programmes.

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    Sunrisers Leeds rewrite The Hundred record books with explosive batting masterclass

    ByJustpaste.in

    Sunrisers Leeds produced one of the most breathtaking batting displays in the history of The Hundred, smashing multiple tournament records in a dominant 37-run victory over London Spirit at Headingley to keep their playoff hopes alive. The home side unleashed an extraordinary batting performance, piling up 241-2, the highest team total ever recorded in The Hundred. Their relentless assault left London Spirit’s bowlers with no answers and thrilled the Headingley crowd with a spectacular display of power-hitting. The foundation for the record-breaking total was laid by openers Ryan Rickelton and Mitchell Marsh, who stitched together a stunning 148-run opening partnership—the highest first-wicket stand in the tournament’s history. Rickelton anchored the innings with a magnificent unbeaten 94 off 42 balls, combining elegant stroke play with aggressive intent. Marsh provided the perfect support, blasting 76 from just 37 deliveries as the pair dominated from the outset and set the tone for an unforgettable innings. If the opening partnership put Sunrisers Leeds in command, Harry Brook ensured the match entered the record books. The England star produced a breathtaking cameo, racing to the fastest half-century in The Hundred history. Brook reached his fifty in only 15 balls before finishing with a blistering 55 from 18 deliveries, an innings decorated with five fours and five towering sixes. His fearless stroke play electrified the crowd and pushed Sunrisers Leeds beyond the 240-run mark, establishing a new benchmark for batting excellence in the competition. Faced with a daunting target, London Spirit fought hard but never seriously threatened to chase down the mammoth total. Sunrisers Leeds maintained control throughout the contest to secure a convincing 37-run victory, earning two crucial points in the race for the knockout stage. The result keeps Sunrisers Leeds firmly in playoff contention, while London Spirit remain seventh in the standings with their qualification hopes becoming increasingly difficult. The match will be remembered as one of the greatest batting performances in The Hundred’s short history. Between Rickelton’s classy unbeaten knock, Marsh’s explosive support and Brook’s record-shattering fireworks, Sunrisers Leeds delivered a performance that showcased the entertainment and attacking spirit of the competition. With the business end of the tournament approaching, the record-breaking victory could prove to be the momentum boost Sunrisers Leeds need in their pursuit of the championship.

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    TikTok star Cesar Gastelum shot dead during livestream in Mexico

    ByJustpaste.in

    Mexican social media influencer Cesar Gastelum was shot and killed while livestreaming in Culiacan. The city sits in the northwestern state of Sinaloa, a region long troubled by unrest. Gastelum had built a following of nearly 600,000 people on TikTok. He was known mainly for his comedy content and light-hearted videos. At the time of the attack, he was streaming live outside a fast-food restaurant with friends. Footage from the livestream showed two helmeted individuals approaching on a motorcycle. The driver reportedly opened fire directly at Gastelum during the broadcast. The attack unfolded in real time as viewers watched the stream online. A security official in Sinaloa confirmed Gastelum’s death shortly after the incident. Authorities said a major security operation was launched in response. Details about a possible motive have not yet been released publicly. According to Reuters, the killing adds to a pattern of violence in the region. Culiacan, the state capital, has seen ongoing clashes between rival criminal groups. These factions have been fighting for territorial control across the city for some time. Sinaloa has repeatedly made headlines in recent years over organised crime activity. The state is widely associated with one of Mexico’s most powerful drug cartels. Public killings and targeted attacks have periodically disrupted daily life in the region. The incident has drawn comparisons to another high-profile case from last year. In May 2025, Mexican beauty influencer Valeria Marquez was killed in a similar way. She was shot while livestreaming from a salon in Zapopan, Jalisco. Marquez, who was 23 at the time, was killed after a man entered the salon. Prosecutors said he opened fire before fleeing the scene afterward. Her case was later investigated using femicide protocols by local authorities. Both cases have renewed concern over the safety risks facing content creators in Mexico. Livestreaming has increasingly placed influencers in vulnerable, exposed situations during public appearances. Digital rights groups have previously called for stronger protections for online creators. Authorities have not indicated whether the two cases are connected in any way. Investigations into Gastelum’s death remain ongoing as officials gather further information. No arrests have been announced at this time.

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    Dallas marks Arbaeen with peaceful mourning procession

    ByJustpaste.in

    The Arbaeen of Imam Hussain (AS) and the martyrs of Karbala was observed with deep reverence in Dallas, Texas, as hundreds of mourners gathered for religious congregations and a peaceful procession to commemorate the 40th day after Ashura. The main gathering was held at the Alam Centre, where religious scholar Maulana Qasim Zaidi spoke about the lasting significance of Karbala. He said the sacrifice of Imam Hussain (AS) continues to inspire people around the world by promoting the values of justice, truth, courage and resistance against oppression. After the religious address, participants joined a central Arbaeen procession through downtown Dallas. Mourners carried traditional Alams and symbolic Taboots while reciting elegies, performing matam and offering prayers in memory of the martyrs of Karbala. Renowned reciters Shuja Haider and Kashif Jafri led the Nauha recitations during the procession. Families, children and members of the local Shia community took part in the event, which was held in a peaceful and organised atmosphere. The conclusion of Arbaeen marked the end of the traditional 40-day mourning period that begins with Ashura. However, participants said the message of Imam Hussain (AS) remains a timeless source of guidance, encouraging people to uphold justice, sacrifice and steadfastness in the face of injustice. Organisers thanked volunteers, community members and law enforcement authorities for ensuring the event was conducted safely and smoothly. They said the successful observance reflected the community’s dedication to preserving and passing on the teachings and legacy of Karbala to future generations.

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    Terrorism case registered after clash at MQM-P hea…

    ByJustpaste.in

    Karachi police have registered a case under the Anti-Terrorism Act following a violent clash between rival groups at the Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) headquarters in Bahadurabad that left several people injured and spread panic in the surrounding area. According to the First Information Report (FIR), the case has been registered by the state at New Town Police Station under multiple sections of the Pakistan Penal Code, including rioting, attempted murder, causing injuries and unlawful assembly, along with Section 7 of the Anti-Terrorism Act. Police have nominated two suspects, identified as Azhar alias Lumba and Zeeshan Habib, while 20 to 25 unidentified individuals have also been named in the case. Investigators said police received reports on the evening of August 2 that two groups had clashed near Choti Market in Bahadurabad. During the violence, a man identified as Amir sustained a bullet injury to his arm, while two others, Asad and Kashir Ali, were also injured. All three were shifted to Abbasi Shaheed Hospital for treatment. The FIR states that both groups allegedly exchanged gunfire and fired into the air, creating fear among residents and disrupting public order. Authorities also noted that Section 144 was in force at the time, prohibiting the display of weapons and public disorder. Police said the suspects fled the scene before law enforcement personnel arrived. The incident reportedly occurred during a party meeting at MQM-P’s central office. According to police, tensions escalated after the meeting ended, leading to a confrontation between supporters of different party factions. Officials said workers belonging to one faction allegedly assaulted members of the rival group and forced them out of the party headquarters. Heavy gunfire was also reported from inside the premises, causing alarm among nearby residents.

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    Preity Zinta says motherhood is her greatest achievement

    ByJustpaste.in

    Bollywood actor Preity Zinta has described becoming a mother as the most significant milestone of her life, saying family has taken priority over her successful film career during her years away from the spotlight. The actor, who was among Bollywood’s leading stars in the early 2000s, stepped away from acting after marrying in 2016 and later welcoming her children in 2021. Her last on-screen appearance was in Bhaiaji Superhit in 2018, and she is now set to return with Batwara 1947. Speaking in a recent interview, Preity said she never felt the absence of films during her break because she was focused on building her family. She explained that while she has enjoyed many career achievements, raising her children has been the most meaningful accomplishment of her life. According to the actor, motherhood brought a new perspective that became valuable while preparing for her latest role. In Batwara 1947, Preity portrays a Muslim woman living in Lahore during the Partition of India. The story follows her family after her husband, played by Sunny Deol, shelters a Hindu woman amid the violence and upheaval of 1947. The actor said her own experience of putting family first helped her relate to the emotions and decisions of her character. She noted that if family remains her top priority today, she can only imagine how much more important it would have been for people living through the uncertainty of Partition. Preity also admitted she felt nervous returning to the camera after such a long break. She recalled that director Rajkumar Santoshi scheduled one of the film’s most emotionally demanding scenes on the very first day of shooting, leaving her anxious about her performance. She praised co-star Sunny Deol for making the experience easier, describing him as a supportive, kind and encouraging colleague who helped her regain confidence during filming. After completing the challenging opening scenes, Preity said she gradually became comfortable on set and found herself settling back into acting. Batwara 1947 also marks Preity Zinta’s reunion with Sunny Deol after eight years, with the two actors sharing the screen once again following their last collaboration in Bhaiaji Superhit.

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    Ariana Grande chooses love over fame

    ByJustpaste.in

    Pop star Ariana Grande is reportedly looking forward to taking a break from the spotlight after completing her Eternal Sunshine Tour, with plans to spend more time with family, close friends and her reported partner Ricky Alvarez. According to media reports, Grande’s demanding schedule of concerts, rehearsals and other professional commitments has left little room for her personal life over the past several months. Sources close to the singer say she is eager to enjoy uninterrupted time with the people closest to her once the tour concludes. Grande and Ricky Alvarez previously dated between 2015 and 2016 after he joined her as a backup dancer. Reports suggest the pair have rekindled their relationship following the singer’s split from actor Ethan Slater. The two have recently been seen together on several occasions during breaks in the tour, fuelling speculation that their romance has resumed. Representatives for the singer have also confirmed that Grande intends to step back from public appearances after the tour ends. The decision comes amid growing public discussion about her health and well-being. According to her spokesperson, the singer hopes to finish the tour on a positive note before taking a well-earned break from public-facing work. The statement added that the pause will allow her to focus on her health and enjoy time away from constant public attention. As part of her planned hiatus, Grande has also withdrawn from the upcoming West End revival of Sunday in the Park with George, a production that would have reunited her with Wicked co-star Jonathan Bailey. The announcement follows the release of her eighth studio album, Petal, which sparked widespread discussion online after some fans expressed concern about her appearance in the music video’s lead single. Grande launched the Eternal Sunshine Tour in June 2026 in Oakland, California, and is scheduled to wrap up the 41-show tour at London’s O2 Arena on September 1 before beginning her extended break.