shan masood resumes
|

Shan Masood resumes batting ahead of England Tests

BECKENHAM: Pakistan batter Shan Masood has taken another important step towards returning to Test cricket, resuming batting practice with the national squad ahead of the three-match series against England.

Masood, 36, suffered a fractured index finger during the opening Test against the West Indies in Tarouba, despite scoring a century in the first innings.

The injury forced him to miss the second Test, but the former Pakistan captain remained with the squad to continue his rehabilitation under the supervision of the team’s medical staff.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has now confirmed that Masood participated in a training session at Kent County Cricket Club in Beckenham, where Pakistan players worked through batting and bowling drills.

“Under the supervision of the medical team, he carried out batting practice,” the PCB said in an update.

Masood’s progress will be closely monitored as Pakistan prepare for a demanding series against England. His availability for the first Test will depend on his recovery and clinical assessment.

The opening Test is scheduled to begin at Headingley on August 19, leaving Masood only a limited window to prove he is fit enough for the challenge.

Before the series begins, Pakistan will play a four-day warm-up match against PCC Select XI starting Wednesday. The fixture will provide the squad with valuable preparation in English conditions.

The second Test will be played at Lord’s from August 27, followed by the final match at Edgbaston from September 9.

For Pakistan, Masood’s return could provide a significant boost to the batting line-up. His century in the Caribbean showed his ability to make an impact, and his recovery now gives the team hope that the experienced left-hander could be back when the England challenge begins.

Pakistan squad

Babar Azam (c), Aamir Jamal, Ali Usman, Abdullah Shafique, Azan Awais, Imam-ul-Haq, Khurram Shahzad, Mohammad Abbas, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Mohammad Awais Zafar, Muhammad Ghazi Ghori (wk), Sajid Khan, Salman Ali Agha, Saud Shakeel* (subject to fitness), Shan Masood and Ubaid Shah.

Similar Posts

  • |

    Ali Ansari reveals what really makes romantic scenes hard to shoot

    Pakistani actor Ali Ansari has opened up about the challenges of performing romantic scenes on screen. He shared his thoughts during a recent appearance on a YouTube show, where he spoke candidly about what makes these scenes difficult to shoot. According to Ansari, the real challenge does not come from the romantic content itself, but from how naturally the dialogue is written. When asked whether he ever feels hesitant while filming romantic moments, he explained that well-written scenes do not cause him any discomfort when working alongside his co-stars. The trouble begins, he said, when the dialogue feels forced or does not fit the situation being portrayed. He noted that sometimes the problem becomes clear even before filming starts, simply by reading through the script. There are moments when a particular line or scene doesn’t feel essential to the story, and that becomes apparent early on. Ansari also spoke about his respect for writers, acknowledging that they include such scenes with the broader narrative and continuity of the story in mind. Still, he admitted that during actual filming, there are times when a scene feels like it’s gone a bit too far or doesn’t sit right with the flow of the story. In such situations, Ansari said he and the team make small adjustments to the dialogue, tweaking the wording slightly. He explained that these minor changes usually help the scene come across more naturally once it’s filmed. The actor’s comments echo a broader conversation happening within Pakistan’s entertainment industry about how romantic and bold scenes are written and portrayed on screen. Similar concerns have been raised recently by other industry figures, including actress and host Mishi Khan, who has spoken about the growing trend of bold scenes in Pakistani dramas. Ansari’s remarks suggest a thoughtful approach to his craft, balancing respect for scriptwriters with his own instincts about what feels authentic in the moment. Rather than dismissing scenes outright, he appears to favor small collaborative fixes that keep both the story’s intent and the performance’s believability intact. His comments come at a time when Pakistani television and film are increasingly under scrutiny for how they handle romantic and intimate content, with audiences and industry insiders alike weighing in on where the line should be drawn between authentic storytelling and content that feels unnecessary or forced.

  • | |

    River garden residents protest repeated increase i…

      Residents of River Garden Islamabad have strongly protested a fresh increase in monthly maintenance charges after the society’s management, River Garden Development Private Limited (RDPL), once again raised service fees. According to residents, the revised charges have been applied unilaterally in bills issued from July onward, placing an additional financial burden on homeowners. Residents claim that this is not the first time maintenance charges have been increased. They state that RDPL had already raised service charges several times during 2023, 2024, and 2025. As a result of these repeated revisions, the cumulative increase in maintenance fees over the past few years has reportedly exceeded 175 percent, leading to growing frustration among residents. A large number of River Garden residents have previously challenged these increases in court. During 2023 and 2024, several homeowners obtained stay orders against the hikes, arguing that the increases were unjustified and lacked transparency. However, residents allege that despite these court orders, the management has continued to introduce higher maintenance charges and adopt various administrative measures that they believe place pressure on residents to withdraw their legal cases. The latest increase has once again triggered widespread criticism within the community. Residents argue that they continue to pay maintenance charges despite receiving inadequate and below-standard services. They believe that the fees being collected do not reflect the quality of facilities available in the housing society. Residents have demanded that maintenance charges should be determined through a transparent and independent process. They have called for the appointment of a neutral third-party auditor to evaluate the society’s operational expenses and recommend fair service charges. They also insist that the rates should be comparable to those charged by neighboring housing societies offering similar facilities and services. According to the residents, the Capital Development Authority (CDA) regulations emphasize that housing societies must prioritize the provision of essential infrastructure and address the concerns of residents before imposing additional financial burdens. They argue that instead of increasing maintenance charges, the management should first improve the condition of the society and fulfill its basic responsibilities. Residents highlighted several longstanding issues that, they say, remain unresolved. They claim that many roads within River Garden are damaged and require urgent repair. They also pointed out that the boundary wall of the housing society is still incomplete, raising concerns about security. In addition, residents say that the promised community center has yet to be constructed despite repeated assurances. They have also expressed concerns over the increasing number of stray dogs roaming the society, describing the situation as a public safety issue for families and children. Other complaints include poor maintenance of green areas, with grass and wild shrubs reportedly left unattended for extended periods. Residents further criticized the relocation of the society’s cemetery, stating that it has been moved approximately 13 kilometers away from the residential area, making it difficult for families to visit and creating inconvenience during funeral arrangements. The residents have once again appealed to the Chairman of the Capital Development Authority to take immediate notice of the matter. They have urged the authority to review the process used to determine monthly maintenance charges and introduce a transparent mechanism that ensures fairness and accountability. Furthermore, residents have requested the CDA to ensure that RDPL fulfills its obligations by improving infrastructure, completing pending development projects, and providing the essential services promised to homeowners. They believe that only after these basic facilities are delivered should any discussion regarding increases in maintenance charges take place. The issue has become a major concern for many families living in River Garden, who say they are willing to pay reasonable service charges but expect transparency, accountability, and quality services in return. They hope that intervention by the CDA will help resolve the dispute and ensure that residents receive the facilities and standards they were promised when investing in the housing society.

  • | | | |

    Trump furious over US weapons shortages as Iran te…

    WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump has grown increasingly angry over reports that the country’s stockpile of key munitions has been significantly depleted during the conflict with Iran, fearing the disclosures could undermine Washington’s leverage as he pushes Tehran toward a deal. Senior US officials told CNN that the issue became a major point of discussion during a Cabinet meeting at Camp David last week. Trump was reportedly frustrated not only by the shortages but by the publication of details about US weapons inventories at a sensitive moment in the conflict. Several officials said Trump had known for months that certain munitions were in limited supply and was not surprised by the underlying situation. His concern, they said, was that public reporting could weaken the image of US military strength while he threatens further action against Iran. Trump sought to push back publicly, saying the United States has “massive amounts” of munitions and that weapons production is expanding. He also threatened severe punishment for officials responsible for leaking classified or sensitive information. However, Trump acknowledged in remarks at the White House that some advanced weapons are in tighter supply, while insisting there is a virtually unlimited supply of less sophisticated weaponry. White House officials said Trump has not blamed Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth for the situation and continues to express confidence in his leadership. Instead, the president has directed the Justice Department to investigate what he described as “treasonous” leaks from within his administration. The concerns have intensified after reports indicated that US forces have used a large share of their air-defence interceptors since the conflict began. CNN reported that the military had consumed nearly four-fifths of its pre-war THAAD missile inventory and about half of its Patriot interceptors. The reported shortages have also alarmed US partners in the Gulf, many of whom rely heavily on American air-defence systems. Regional officials have warned that reduced US stocks could make it harder to defend against potential Iranian missile and drone attacks if Washington launches further strikes. Iran has reportedly warned Gulf countries that renewed US attacks could trigger retaliation against energy infrastructure and desalination facilities across the region. Trump has spoken with leaders in Qatar and Saudi Arabia as his administration weighs its next steps. Senior military advisers have repeatedly raised concerns about dwindling stocks during discussions over potential escalation. The issue predates the current crisis. US military leaders had warned before the war that a prolonged campaign could strain American weapons supplies, particularly after years of support for Israel and Ukraine. Trump has blamed the previous administration for contributing to depleted stockpiles through weapons deliveries to Ukraine, while also acknowledging that the United States needs greater reserves. The administration has moved to expand production, including invoking the Defense Production Act and meeting with major defence contractors such as Lockheed Martin. However, officials acknowledge that expanding weapons manufacturing capacity could take years, meaning increased production may not immediately solve the shortage.

  • | | |

    KP Cabinet increases Ehsaas Naujawan programme to …

    PESHAWAR: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa cabinet has approved an increase of Rs2 billion in the size of the Ehsaas Naujawan Programme, taking its total allocation from Rs3 billion to Rs5 billion. The decisions were taken during a cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Sohail Afridi in Peshawar. Officials said the additional funding would strengthen the provincial government’s youth-focused initiatives and provide greater support to young people. The cabinet also approved a grant-in-aid for Langlands School and College in Chitral. A separate grant was approved for model schools in the merged districts. The meeting also focused on improving access to education. The cabinet approved an interdepartmental memorandum of understanding aimed at reducing the number of children who remain out of school. Another major decision was taken regarding textbooks. From the financial year 2027-28, students from grades six to eight across the province will receive textbooks free of cost. The cabinet also approved financial assistance for the treatment of 21 patients. The move is aimed at helping patients facing difficulties in meeting medical expenses. In another important decision, the provincial cabinet approved the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Public-Private Partnership Authority Bill 2026. The legislation is intended to strengthen the framework for public-private cooperation in development projects. The cabinet also approved stipend slots for house jobs in government hospitals. It further approved an increase in stipends for doctors completing their house jobs, along with additional grants for the programme.

  • |

    Ireland withdraws support for Infantino as FIFA pressure mounts

    The Football Association of Ireland (FAI) has withdrawn its previous support for Gianni Infantino’s bid to remain FIFA president, adding to growing pressure on the football governing body’s leadership. The FAI confirmed the decision after a board meeting and said it had formally written to FIFA to explain why it was rescinding a letter of support issued earlier this year. The association cited concerns over governance, transparency and the lack of meaningful consultation. The decision comes amid a widening dispute over FIFA’s leadership and a controversial proposal involving the commercial rights of the World Cup. UEFA, the Asian Football Confederation and CONCACAF have criticised Infantino’s handling of the issue, accusing FIFA of a serious breakdown in trust. Ireland’s move represents another setback for Infantino as he seeks another term in office at the FIFA presidential election scheduled for March 2027. New Zealand has also withdrawn its backing, while several European associations have publicly opposed Infantino’s leadership. Northern Ireland’s football association, meanwhile, has backed UEFA’s position and said it would continue engaging on issues related to football governance. The contrasting positions on the island underline the wider divisions emerging within international football. Despite the growing opposition, Infantino retains support from several influential football bodies, including the African confederation and a number of Arab football associations. The FIFA presidency therefore remains a closely contested political battle rather than a settled outcome. With more national associations reassessing their positions, the dispute is expected to remain a major issue ahead of the 2027 FIFA election. Ireland’s decision further highlights the mounting calls for greater transparency, consultation and accountability in the governance of world football.

  • | |

    PM Shehbaz orders stronger push to create youth jo…

    Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed the government to take coordinated and effective steps to expand employment opportunities for young Pakistanis under the National Youth Employment Policy. Chairing a meeting in Islamabad on Tuesday to review progress on the policy, the prime minister said providing decent jobs to the country’s skilled and talented youth remained a key priority of the government. He called for a comprehensive strategy involving relevant ministries and institutions to ensure the policy delivers practical employment opportunities. He also stressed the need to focus on skills development, particularly for young women, so they can compete for emerging jobs in both Pakistan and international markets. The prime minister directed authorities to give special attention to employment opportunities for young people in Balochistan and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa. Officials briefed the meeting on reforms introduced in the National Vocational and Technical Training Commission (NAVTTC) and the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (SMEDA). The reforms are aimed at connecting Pakistan’s skilled workforce with the changing requirements of local industries and international employers. NAVTTC is working to help Pakistani workers obtain internationally recognised certifications and improve their language skills for overseas employment. Training programmes are also being aligned with market demand to increase the chances of young people securing jobs abroad. The meeting was informed that the Digital Youth Hub is providing information about employment opportunities in Pakistan and overseas through a single platform. Youth Development Cells are also being established in educational institutions to offer career counselling, guidance and information about skills and employment opportunities. Shehbaz Sharif ordered the launch of an awareness campaign so that young people can better understand the benefits and opportunities available under the National Youth Employment Policy. Chairman of the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme Rana Mashhood briefed the meeting on progress made under the government’s directives. Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal, Economic Affairs Minister Ahad Khan Cheema, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, Climate Change Minister Musadik Malik, IT Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja and other senior officials also attended. The government has recently increased its focus on preparing young Pakistanis for a changing labour market through technical education, information technology, artificial intelligence and entrepreneurship. The prime minister has also stressed greater access to quality education and skills training, particularly for disadvantaged youth. Under the youth employment policy, the government has set a target for women to make up 35 per cent of the labour force, while at least 10 per cent of the allocation is intended for startups.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *