Pakistan haw departed Dunedin for Auckland as they prepare for the third T20I against New Zealand on Friday.
The national squad will hold a practice session at Eden Park from 2 PM to 5 PM local time as they look to recover from back-to-back losses in the series. Third T20I in the series will take place on Friday March 21.
Pakistan’s struggles continued in the second T20I after failing to defend 135 in a rain-shortened 15-over contest. New Zealand’s openers, Tim Seifert and Finn Allen, launched a rapid 66-run stand, setting the tone for a dominant chase.
Seifert’s 45 off 22 balls ended when Mohammad Ali claimed his maiden T20I wicket, while Allen smashed 38 off 16 before falling to Jahandad Khan.
Pakistan made brief inroads, dismissing Mark Chapman (1) and Jimmy Neesham (14), but a steady 35-run partnership between Daryl Mitchell and Mitchell Hay kept New Zealand on course. Haris Rauf removed Mitchell (14), yet Michael Bracewell and Hay sealed the win with 11 balls to spare.
Pakistan’s batting woes continued with early wickets once again derailing their innings. Captain Salman Ali Agha and Irfan Khan built a 31-run stand before Ish Sodhi’s double strike in the seventh over removed Irfan (11) and Khushdil Shah (2), leaving Pakistan struggling at 52-4.
Agha fought back with a 28-ball 46, supported by Shadab Khan’s 24, but their dismissals exposed the lower order. A late 22-run cameo from Shaheen Afridi pushed the total to 135, which proved insufficient.
With the series slipping away, Pakistan will aim for a turnaround in Auckland to keep their chances alive.
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In an unexpected turn of events, senior lawyer Abid Zaman Advocate withdrew from representing Armaghan Qureshi, the main accused in the Mustafa Amir kidnapping and murder case. The move came on Tuesday, the same day an anti-terrorism court (ATC) extended Armaghan’s physical remand until 24 March.
According to reports, Abid Zaman, who had been handling the case, stepped down after Armaghan’s father (who is also a lawyer) expressed his intention to take over the defence personally. This sudden change raises questions about the defence strategy and the role of new legal representation.
Earlier, during a hearing at ATC No. 4 in the Jail Anti-Terrorism Complex, defence counsel Tahir-ur-Rehman Tanoli requested the judge to summon Armaghan’s mother as a witness. Another defence lawyer, Khurram Abbas, suggested that Kamran Qureshi, Armaghan’s father, should also be called to court. Advocate Tanoli assured the judge that their presence would not cause any disruptions.
Following these requests, the judge ordered both parents to attend the hearing. Meanwhile, Special Prosecutor Zulfiqar Ali Arain informed the court that Armaghan’s father had allegedly threatened him. The judge asked why no formal complaint had been lodged under the Lawyers Protection Act and Arain confirmed that he had already applied.
Investigating Officer (IO) Afsar Muhammad Ali was questioned about whether a formal case had been registered. He confirmed that the required paperwork had been filed.
The court has expressed concern over delays in the case, emphasising the consequences of further postponements. Tensions also rose when the judge ordered Armaghan to sign a power of attorney. However, the accused refused, stating that he did not wish to appoint a lawyer.
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Pakistan’s Test captain Shan Masood is heading to Leicestershire for the 2025 summer! The experienced left-hander has signed an all-format deal, bringing his wealth of knowledge and solid batting skills to the Foxes.
Masood, 35, is set to make his debut on May 31 against none other than his former club, Derbyshire. Talk about a dramatic start!
A Move from Yorkshire to Leicestershire
This signing marks the end of Masood’s time at Yorkshire, where he served as captain since 2023. His impact was huge—he racked up 1,240 County Championship runs at an average of 53.91, helping Yorkshire earn promotion to Division One.
Before that, he had an incredible 2022 season with Derbyshire, scoring 1,078 runs at a staggering average of 82.61. That season included back-to-back double centuries, one of which was a dominant 219 against Leicestershire—the very team he’s now joining!
Shan Masood is eager to take on this new challenge, and he’s full of praise for his new team.
“I am really excited to have the chance to play all three formats for Leicestershire. I have always admired the club and have had great conversations with a lot of the team over the last three seasons.”
The Uptonsteel County Ground is already one of his favorite venues, and he’s looking forward to playing in front of passionate Foxes fans.
What Does This Mean for Leicestershire?
Shan Masood joins club captain Peter Handscomb and Netherlands all-rounder Logan van Beek as Leicestershire’s overseas signings for the season.
Director of Cricket Claude Henderson couldn’t be happier with the addition:
“We are delighted to welcome someone of Shan’s calibre to Leicestershire. He is a proven talent both internationally and in county cricket, and someone who can win matches in all three formats.”
With his leadership, experience, and match-winning abilities, Masood is set to be a key player across all formats.
For now, it looks like Masood will be available throughout the summer since Pakistan has no scheduled Test matches in England. However, things could change if the PCB calls him up for the limited-overs tour of the Caribbean in July.
That said, his last white-ball appearance for Pakistan was in May 2023, so for now, Leicestershire fans can expect to see plenty of him in action.
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Researchers in Brazil identified a new coronavirus in bats, raising doubts regarding its possible threat to humans. The virus, highly similar to the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV), was identified after thorough research carried out by São Paulo and Ceará teams in conjunction with Hong Kong University.
Genetic Similarity to MERS-CoV
The research, which has been published in the Journal of Medical Virology, points out that this new virus has approximately 72% of its genetic makeup identical to MERS-CoV. Even more alarmingly is the similarity of its spike protein — the most important component of the virus about adhering to host cells — that is 71.74% similar to that of MERS-CoV. This similarity suggests the potential for the new virus to interact with the same receptors that MERS-CoV utilises to infect humans.
Is Another Pandemic on Horizon? New Corona Virus Discovered in Brazilian Bats
MERS-CoV, which was discovered in 2012, is a viral respiratory infection that has the potential to bring about mild to severe symptoms such as fever, cough and shortness of breath. It has the potential to result in pneumonia among some patients and has been at the centre of major outbreaks in the past. Despite this, scientists are not yet certain regarding the infectious potential of this newly identified virus.
Future Research and Concerns
Bruna Stefanie Silvério, the author of the study, said that scientists are going to conduct additional experiments in Hong Kong this year to see if the new virus can infect humans. The experiments will be important in assessing the possible risk it presents and coming up with early intervention measures if necessary.
Ricardo Durães-Carvalho, co-author of the study, stressed the need for ongoing monitoring. “Bats are viral reservoirs of importance and should thus be subjected to ongoing epidemiological surveillance. Such monitoring allows us to detect circulating viruses and transmission risks to other animals, and even to humans,” he said.
Source: The New York Post
Call for Enhanced Monitoring
In their research, the scientists took 423 oral and rectal swabs from 16 bat species in Fortaleza, northeastern Brazil. Seven coronaviruses were isolated, and the new one was found to be highly similar to coronaviruses related to MERS previously isolated from humans and camels.
Experts now advocate for increased systematic and integrated examination of viruses from wildlife. Greater surveillance and information-sharing platforms might assist health systems in tracing and anticipating potential outbreaks earlier, preventing their spread. There is as yet no proof of human infection, but researchers remain alert to the fact that the early warning is essential in order to avert the next global health threat.
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Schedule For Pakistan-Bangladesh T20I Series Revealed
Pakistan cricket fans have something exciting to look forward to in May as the Bangladesh men’s team is all set to tour the country for a limited-overs series, featuring three ODIs and three T20Is.
This will be Bangladesh’s second tour in two years, and if history is any indication, they’ll be feeling confident. The last time they visited, they stunned Pakistan with a 2-0 Test series victory—a result that’s still fresh in the minds of cricket fans.
The series is expected to take place right after the PSL 2025, which is scheduled to run from April 11 to May 18. While the exact dates haven’t been announced yet, media reports suggest that Faisalabad, Multan, and Lahore will host the matches.
Originally, this series was part of the Future Tours Programme (FTP) but got postponed due to scheduling conflicts.
However, things took a positive turn after Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) Chairman Faruque Ahmed visited Pakistan for the Champions Trophy 2025 discussions.
Following his meetings with PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, both boards agreed to reschedule the series for May.
Ahmed expressed his gratitude, saying: “I would like to thank PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi for inviting me. There has been a discussion between the two boards to hold a white-ball series apart from the FTP. The boards are in talks to schedule the series.”
Naqvi, in return, appreciated Bangladesh’s support for the Champions Trophy 2025 and confirmed that discussions had been ongoing for weeks.
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Cricket fans were recently buzzing about a potential Saudi-backed global T20 league, but the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has shut down the idea completely.
With a jam-packed international schedule and growing concerns over player workload, the ECB made it clear—they’re not on board.
What Was the Plan?
The proposed league, called the ‘Grand Slam of Cricket,’ was designed to mirror tennis Grand Slams, featuring eight teams playing in four different locations worldwide. Saudi Arabia’s sovereign wealth fund was set to bankroll the tournament, promising big money and global appeal.
ECB chief executive Richard Gould didn’t mince words.
“With the busy international calendar, a host of established franchise leagues around the world, and existing concerns about player workloads, there is no scope or demand for such an idea,” he told the Sydney Morning Herald.
Simply put, there are already too many T20 leagues. Between the IPL, BBL, PSL, CPL, SA20, ILT20, and The Hundred, players barely get time to breathe.
The ECB has its own investment to protect too—The Hundred, England’s 100-ball competition, recently secured $1.27 billion in private franchise funding. Naturally, they don’t want another tournament competing for attention.
Interestingly, the Australian Cricketers’ Association (ACA) is open to the idea of a Saudi-backed global T20 league.
According to the ACA, such a league could actually benefit players, especially in areas like collective bargaining and gender-equity pay for male and female cricketers.
So while the ECB is saying “no chance,” some cricketers might welcome the opportunity for better pay and more financial security.
Is There Room for Another T20 League?
With so many T20 leagues already in play, the big question is: Do we really need another one? On one hand, a globally recognized league with top-tier financial backing could shake things up.
On the other, player burnout is already a huge concern, and adding another competition to the mix could push things over the edge. For now, the ECB has put its foot down. But with Saudi Arabia’s deep pockets, don’t be surprised if the idea resurfaces in the future.
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The ceasefire signed between Israel and Hamas has been shaky since the day it was signed on January 19. However, on Tuesday, 18 March, Israel fully resumed its war on Gaza, launching airstrikes, killing over 400 Palestinians and injuring several more.
Israel has also issued evacuation orders for parts of northern and central Gaza near the perimeter, indicating that some form of attack involving ground troops is near. Hundreds, possibly thousands, of Palestinians in the area who have only recently returned to their homes, often in ruins, are on the move once more.
Among those killed include high-ranking Hamas officials and many civilians, including women and children.
Israel’s defense minister Israel Katz said that the attacks were “due to Hamas’ refusal to release the hostages and threats to harm IDF soldiers and Israeli communities.” Does that sound like the same reason Israel has been giving since the very beginning?
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu believes that military pressure is the most effective means of securing the release of hostages. According to an Israeli official, Israel’s airstrikes in Gaza are the first stage of a series of escalating military actions intended to pressure Hamas into releasing more hostages.
What Does this Mean for the Palestinians?
March 18, Tuesday, was the single deadliest day for Palestinians since November 7, 2023, when 548 Palestinians were killed by the IDF.
Israel has Resumed War in Gaza: Why Now?
“Don’t the Israelis have any promises they are committed to? It was a terrifying night,” Ahmad Al Shaafi, who has been sheltering in Deir el Balah, said. “Only God is merciful. There are still two children under the rubble – one 26 years old and the other 5. We cannot retrieve them.”
Since January 19, Israel has made several claims that missiles were launched from Gaza, but they have always been far inside the area. However, they haven’t offered proof of such, and during the two months of the truce, Hamas hasn’t fired rockets into Israel.
What Does the Future Hold?
The harsh truth is that the two-month break in the Israel-Hamas fighting is already over. A compromise to stop these new Israeli attacks is unlikely to be reached anytime soon.
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza was only partly eased by a massive influx of aid during the ceasefire, however, the resumed war will make distribution of aid harder than ever.
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After an extended stay of nine months, NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams are back on Earth. Their landing was splashy and smooth as their SpaceX capsule deployed four parachutes, splashing down off the coast of Florida. A pod of dolphins was also seen circulating the aircraft when it landed; a deserved warm welcome!
After the recovery ship reached the aircraft, they lifted it from the water to finally get the astronauts out. The astronauts beamed and waved as they were helped out of the hatch and were put on a stretcher.
This saga originally began in June 2024 when the crew, including Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams, was sent on a mission that was originally meant to last for eight days. The astronauts, at first, were supposedly taking part in the first crewed test flight of the Starliner spacecraft, developed by aerospace company Boeing.
However, in an unfortunate turn of events, the capsule suffered several technical problems during its journey to the space station, and it was deemed too risky to take the astronauts home. So, it was decided that the Starliner should return safely to Earth, empty in early September. This meant that the pair needed a new ride for their return. An alternative one.
Then, NASA opted for the next scheduled flight: a SpaceX capsule that arrived at the ISS in late September. This flight was originally set to carry four astronauts but was modified to fly with only two, leaving room for Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams to join the return trip. However, this meant they had to wait another six months for the planned return, further prolonging their stay in orbit.
“It is awesome to have crew 9 home, just a beautiful landing,” said Joel Montalbano, deputy associate administrator, Nasa’s Space Operations Mission Directorate. Thanking the astronauts for their resilience and flexibility, he said SpaceX had been a “great partner.”
Journey Back to Earth
The astronauts’ return back home in a total of 17 hours, culminating in their parachute-assisted landing. Once back on solid ground, they were assisted onto stretchers, a standard procedure for astronauts after long-term space missions due to the effects of weightlessness on the body. They will now undergo medical evaluations before reuniting with their families.
NASA astronauts Suni Williams, left, and Butch Wilmore stand together for a photo.
The Need For Rehabilitation
Following their return, Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams will be transferred to NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas, for medical evaluations and will be undergoing 45 days rehabilitation programme to allow them to adjust after months in microgravity.
This is really crucial because extended time in microgravity can have significant effects on the human body, which might affect a person’s bone density, muscle atrophy, blood circulation and fluid shift. This disrupts the body’s functioning to a great extent.
Hence, now NASA will design a specialised exercise regimen to help them re-adapt to Earth’s gravity.
“Your body feels great in space – like a holiday. Your heart, muscles, and bones are having an easy time because you’re floating. But when you return, those first two or three days can be really punishing. You must keep up the exercise regime in space, not for space itself, but for when you come back to Earth’s punishing gravity“ said a British astronaut regarding the adjustment process.
Hopefully, now both the astronauts will be able to catch up on all the important life events that they originally planned to be a part of. The nine months can never be returned to the astronauts but maybe that is what makes their return back home even much more memorable. The little setbacks that makes us appreciate life!
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On the eve of Eid-ul-Fitr 2025, the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) released a statement on issuing new currency notes.
In a statement released, the central bank has strongly disputed reports that new currency notes won’t be printed. On the occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr 2025, the SBP made it clear that it would ensure the continuance of its “long-standing tradition” of issuing new notes to commercial banks.
“To ensure easy access to new currency notes for the public, the SBP is utilising the extensive branch network of banks nationwide,” stated the SBP, and added, “During Ramadan this year, the SBP has already provided new currency notes worth Rs 27 billion to over 17,000 commercial bank branches.”
To facilitate the smooth distribution of new currency notes, the SBP said it made provisions to deliver cash through the ATM networks of banks during Eid. To ensure that new notes are available at every commercial bank branch, cash monitoring teams have also been put in place.
Eid-ul-Fitr 2025 is anticipated to take place on March 31, 2025, according to prediction of Pakistan Metrological Department. However, the final decision on t will be made by the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee on the sighting of the moon.
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Britain’s leading newspaper, The Telegraph, has issued unprecedented apologies and paid damages to Pakistani-American technology entrepreneur Zia Chishti. But why the apology? Why are the whites suddenly being so kind?
Pseudo Sexual Harassment Allegations
Zia Chishti had sued the Telegraph Media Group (publisher of the Daily Telegraph and the Telegraph online) in the UK High Court over 13 articles published by The Telegraph between November 2021 to February 2023 that republished allegations that Mr. Chishti had harassed and assaulted Tatiana Spottiswoode, a former employee of Afiniti.
Mr. Chisti’s Fight to Clear His Name
In response to these allegations Mr. Chisti initiated libel proceedings against The Telegraph. He fought a tough legal battle with the paper in London for over two years, which involved disclosure and review of thousands of documents between Mr. Chishti and Ms. Spottiswoode.
The subsequent high court proceedings drew on extensive personal communications between Mr. Chishti and Ms. Spottiswoode, as well as hundreds of documents The Telegraph obtained through a subpoena of Ms. Spottiswoode’s attorneys in the United States.
The documents contained intimate conversations which showed that Ms. Spottiswoode repeatedly pursued Mr. Chishti with romantic interest during the periods in which she was claiming she was harassed and assaulted – and made her allegations public after Mr. Chishti had moved on to a different relationship and married his now-wife. It was soon discovered that these allegations made on Mr. Chishti were all along a revenge game.
UK’s ‘The Telegraph’ Apologises to Zia Chishti Over Allegations, P
The Official Apology From Telegraph
The UK’s oldest newspaper has now conceded the allegations it published were false, misleading and defamatory. They have also issued an apology.
This apology will also be published separately both in The Telegraph’s print and online editions.
“The Telegraph apologises to Mr Chishti and his family for the harm they have been caused. Finally, The Telegraph has agreed to pay Mr Chishti a substantial sum by way of damages and a contribution to his legal costs. With these steps, The Telegraph and Mr Chishti have agreed to end the litigation between them.” Read the official apology of Telegraph.
Mr. Chishti Accepts the Apology
Speaking to media outside the court after winning the case, Zia Chishti said The Telegraph apology and settlement is a step in the right direction. He also told the media that despite the 3 year ordeal this controversy has done in his life, he didn’t discuss it openly. The outcome of this case makes Mr. Chishti believe in the justice system again.
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Pakistan’s digital payment landscape takes a major leap forward with the launch of Google Wallet. This milestone marks a significant advancement in digital transactions, financial inclusion, and economic opportunities for millions of Pakistanis. As a global technology leader, Google has played a vital role in shaping Pakistan’s digital ecosystem, and the introduction of Google Wallet further strengthens its impact by enabling seamless, secure, and efficient financial transactions.
Google Wallet provides a safer, simpler way for users to store and access essentials such as payment cards, loyalty cards, and boarding passes directly from their Android devices. With digital payments becoming the preferred choice for seamless transactions, this launch aligns with the evolving landscape of Pakistan’s financial sector.
Starting last week, cardholders of Bank AlFalah, Bank of Punjab, Faysal Bank Noor, HBL, JazzCash, Meezan Bank, and UBL have been able to add their Visa and Mastercard debit and credit cards to Google Wallet. This enables users to make contactless payments via their Android phones or Wear OS devices wherever tap-and-pay services are accepted.
Additionally, cardholders from Allied Bank, easypaisa Digital Bank, JS Bank, and Zindigi will soon gain access to Google Wallet’s payment capabilities. By integrating with multiple banks and digital wallets, Google Wallet has the potential to bring more people into the formal financial system, especially those previously hesitant about digital payments.
This expansion is expected to revolutionize the way Pakistanis shop and make transactions, offering a seamless payment experience for both online and in-store purchases. Merchants like Onic, Gul Ahmed, Sana Safinaz, J., and KE will soon integrate Google Pay via PayFast, making it easier for customers to complete transactions securely and efficiently.
Beyond payments, Google Wallet simplifies travel and loyalty rewards management. Travelers can now add boarding passes from Batik Air and Thai Airways directly to their Google Wallets, allowing for real-time notifications on departure times and gate changes. Online ticketing platforms such as Bookme.pk and Sastaticket.pk also support integration, enabling users to store bus, train, and event tickets within the app for easy access. Customers of Naheed Supermarket can now add their loyalty cards to Google Wallet, streamlining access to rewards and benefits through a digital-first approach.
One of the key features of Google Wallet is its industry-standard security measures. It uses tokenization to protect transactions by generating an alternate card number linked to a dynamic security code for each purchase. Additionally, users must complete a verification process before adding a payment card, and device screen locks ensure that only the owner can access their digital wallet. If a user’s phone is lost or stolen, the Find My Device feature allows them to remotely lock their phone, update security settings, or erase personal data, ensuring that sensitive financial information remains protected.
The introduction of Google Wallet in Pakistan is a game-changer, offering an innovative, secure, and user-friendly solution for managing digital payments and essential documents. As more banks, merchants, and service providers integrate Google Wallet, it is set to play a crucial role in accelerating Pakistan’s transition to a cashless economy while further strengthening Google’s contribution to the country’s digital transformation.
OPPO, the global leader in smart devices, has officially launched the highly anticipated Reno13 Series across Pakistan, delivering an exceptional blend of powerful AI capabilities, industry first luminous design, and ultimate durability. Following an overwhelming response during the pre-order phase, the Reno13 Series is now available for purchase nationwide at authorized OPPO stores offline & online at official OPPO store on Daraz.
Available in three variants—Reno13, Reno 13F and Reno13 Pro—the series is built to capture every moment in stunning clarity, featuring photography enhancements like AI Livephoto, IP69 Water & Dust Resistance & AI Editor.
Continuing OPPO’s legacy of AI-powered imaging, the Reno13 Series redefines smartphone photography with AI Livephoto, allowing users to capture a three-second zinda moment and delivering AI-enhanced clarity in every frame.
Taking the camera experience to even new heights and depths, the Reno 13 series comes equipped with IP69 water and dust resistance. Whether trekking through rugged landscapes or capturing underwater moments, the Reno13 Series is built to withstand extreme conditions, allowing users to experience underwater photography and AI Livephoto for the first time in this range.
“The Reno13 Series ushers in a new era of smartphone capabilities in Pakistan,” said CEO of OPPO Pakistan, George Long, “With revolutionary imaging powered by AI, underwater photography experience, and stunning design, these devices empower users to capture and live every moment like never before.”
Designed to turn heads, the Reno13 Series introduces Pakistan’s first Luminous Blue color, wrapped in a sleek, premium glass finish that reflects sophistication and style. It’s a device made for those who are born to shine effortlessly in any setting.
Continuing the legacy of OPPO’s AI phone, the Reno 13 series has taken creativity to the next level with its AI Editor, including AI Clarity Enhancer to boost resolution, AI Unblur to sharpen blurred objects, AI Reflection Remover to eliminate unwanted glare, and AI Eraser to remove distractions effortlessly. Providing imaging excellence, the Reno13 series boasts an Ultra-Clear Camera System, including a 50MP main and front camera for capturing stunning pictures effortlessly.
For those who demand high performance, the Reno13 Series combines cutting-edge AI and hardware enhancements to elevate gaming and entertainment. The Reno 13 series is powered by a massive 5,600mAh & 5800mAh battery and 80W SUPERVOOC™ Flash Charge that delivers hours of usage with just minutes of charging.
Additionally, the Reno13 series enhances productivity with features like Documents, an AI-powered app that summarizes and edits text, making everyday tasks seamless.
With an exceptional pre-order response, the Reno13 Series is now officially available nationwide. Step into the future of AI-powered photography with the Reno13 Series and experience your Har Pal Zinda moment!
Once a prominent name and a trendsetter in the world of fashion, Forever 21 has now filed for bankruptcy for the second time. The brand was so big it was once the trademark for cheap and trendy teen fashion clothes. Then what exactly caused it to go bankrupt? Well, the world of retail is a cruel place, even for the pioneers.
What is Forever 21? Brief Overview
Anyone who is not living under a rock must have heard about Forever 21 at least once in their life. Founded in 1984 by Korean immigrants Jin Sook Chang and Do Won Chang, Forever 21 captured consumer attention with trend-sensitive apparel at highly competitive almost “rock bottom” prices. Their main strategy was about holding limited inventory, so that their customer’s know that the price they are getting now, they will never get it in the future.
At their peak, the company had more than 800 physical stores and over $4 billion in sales. It employed 43,000 people, operated 800 stores globally and recorded over $4 billion in annual sales, according to court documents.
The Downfall of Forever 21
This king in fashion industry, no longer reigns the fashion game due to toppling competition in the same industry and weak mall traffic. Currently, Forever 21 entered bankruptcy with $1.58 billion in debt, after losing more than $400 million over the last three years. This resulted in many outlets of the brand shutting down and thousands of employees getting laid off due to financial limitations.
Forever No More: Fashion Retailer’s Bankruptcy Highlights Changing Shopping Behaviour
It is projected to lose approximately $180 million in 2025, according to documents filed in a Wilmington, Delaware bankruptcy court.
What Went Wrong?
The company blames rising fast fashion brands like Temu and Shein being the main reason. These companies take advantage of duty-free treatment of low-cost packages from China to undermine its pricing power and hence provide the same fashion pieces at even lower rates.
Asian ecommerce powerhouses like Shein and Temu utilise thousands of factories in China to pump out trendy products. Hence, they end up undermining brands like Forever 21 by doing it all much more faster and cheaper.
However, this isn’t the only reason Forever 21 is facing such a massive fallout. It initially started when the strategic misalignment started in the business operations. Due to the massive success of the brand, it started tapping into new sectors too, like cosmetics and menswear. This resulted in opening larger stores and keeping deeper inventory than the original business plan. Having more inventory available in stores removed the urgency and excitement that initially captivated customers. Once this USP was gone, the mall traffic and the hype behind the brand started slowly disappearing too. This, in addition to the financial strain due to the burden of high inventories, only made the losses worse.
This bankruptcy of one of the biggest brands is an important lesson for retailers. A brand must always adapt to competition and must not abandon its core values; otherwise, it must know that nothing is forever.
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We just got wind of some exciting news—Infinix is gearing up to launch a brand-new NOTE Series smartphone on March 27th! The brand has announced that the One-Tap Infinix AI∞ will be a standout feature, but that’s not all we’ve learned. The design is where things get even more exciting. Rumor has it that this could be the first smartphone under $500 to feature a full-metal body, debuting an innovative unibody metal casting process. Inspired by the manufacturing of new energy vehicles (NEVs), Infinix is embracing lightweight structures, integrated molding, and efficient production—setting the stage for smartphones that are lighter, more durable, efficient, and eco-friendly.
From Car Manufacturing to Smartphone Innovation
Tesla was one of the pioneers of using integrated steel-aluminum casting technology for electric vehicles. By consolidating over 80 parts into a single cast structure, they managed to cut costs by 40%, reduce manufacturing time from 1-2 hours down to just 45 seconds to 2 minutes, and decrease vehicle weight by 30%, all while making the structure even more durable. It seems Infinix has drawn serious inspiration from this, exploring how these high-efficiency manufacturing techniques could be applied to smartphones—potentially revolutionizing the entire industry.
Real Metal ArmorAlloy™—The NOTE is Going Full Metal
While most smartphones under $500 still rely on plastic or glass backs, we’re hearing that the upcoming NOTE Series is taking things to the next level with real metal ArmorAlloy™! This next-gen material is said to be a hot-rolled fusion of Damascus steel and aluminum alloy—which means it combines the incredible toughness and signature wave patterns of Damascus steel with aluminum’s lightweight durability, corrosion resistance, and processability. The result? A phone that’s more scratch-resistant, deformation-proof, and capable of withstanding humid environments. And the best part? It’s made with recyclable metal, making it an eco-friendly choice.
Infinix’s Secret Weapon: The HyperCasting Tech
Rumors are swirling that Infinix has been working on a new manufacturing process, possibly codenamed HyperCasting. It sounds futuristic, but here’s what we’ve heard: they’re melting aluminum alloy at 700°C and injecting it into a mold with 600 tons of clamping force, allowing multiple phone components to be formed in a single shot. The real game-changer? This process eliminates up to 22 welding points, making the core structure about 3g lighter while increasing durability. On top of that, it’s said that this technique optimizes heat dissipation, keeping the phone running smoothly even under heavy loads—a potential win for mobile gamers.
The Design Philosophy of the Octagonal Camera Module of Infinix NOTE 50 Series
The design of the octagonal camera module on the Infinix NOTE 50 series is nothing short of striking. Inspired by the power and precision of high-end car air intakes, the intricate light play of diamond cutting, and the luxury of Harry Winston jewelry, the design team has created something truly unique. Every angle and line of the octagonal module has been thoughtfully crafted with the user in mind. The goal? To offer multiple interpretations that cater to various aesthetics and needs, seamlessly blending technology with style, and meeting the personalized preferences of every user.
If This is Real, Smartphone Manufacturing May Never Be the Same
If these reports turn out to be true, this could be a true game-changer for the entire industry:
Lighter, thinner smartphones without sacrificing durability or aesthetics.
Stronger, more precise metal frames—no more weak spots caused by assembled parts, making the phone more resistant to drops.
A major shift in smartphone manufacturing—bringing high-efficiency automotive production techniques into mobile tech could set the stage for more efficient, sustainable, and cutting-edge device production.
We’re expecting more details to surface soon. If this is just the beginning, things are about to get very interesting… Stay tuned!
Naseer Soomro, Pakistan’s tallest man, passed away in Shikarpur after a long illness at 55. His funeral prayers will be offered in Shikarpur on Tuesday (today).
According to media reports, he was 7 feet 9 inches tall, making him one of the tallest people in the world. He was at least three feet taller than ordinary people. His extraordinary height earned him national and international recognition, bringing fame to Pakistan on a global stage.
In recognition of his unique status, the government offered him a job with Pakistan International Airlines (PIA). His height made him a well-known figure both in Pakistan and abroad. Many people admired him for his remarkable appearance and contributions to the country’s reputation.
Meanwhile, Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah expressed deep sorrow over Naseer Soomro’s passing. He extended his condolences to the family and prayed for the departed soul.
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Ayeza's post was not only reacting to the scandal; it was a love and appreciation message to their fans.
“Mujhey Ijazat Hai Chaar Shadiyon Ki” are the words of a veteran Pakistani actor Danish Taimoor in a recent Ramadan Transmission alongside Rabia Anam. Ever since the airing of this episode, Danish has gone viral due to severe backlash on the internet.
However, the discussion of polygamy is quite common in our country, so why the backlash now? What has offended the masses is that men seem to always bring up the topic of “four marriages” in every religious argument that is not even remotely linked.
What Went Down on the Show?
Danish Taimoor and Ayeza Khan, a very beloved celebrity couple, recently made a TV appearance in a Ramadan transmission named “Mehfil e Ramazan” that aired on 16th March 2025. Danish was the host of the show while his wife, Ayeza Khan was a celebrity guest. Their conversation was ‘couple goals’ until the topic of Polygamy and its permission in Islam came.
The controversy began when Danish made a comment about polygamy and said, “Mujhe Allah ne ijazat di hai 4 shadioun ki, main kar nahi raha hun woh alag baat hai, lekin yeh ijazat mujhe Allah ne di hui hai, woh mujhse koi cheen nahi sakta hai” (Translation: Allah has given me the permission to marry four times, it is another thing I am not marrying but Allah has given me the permission that nobody can snatch it from me).
The Public Reaction: The “Filhal” Backlash
He also mentioned, “Filhal jo hai inhi ke saath guzaar raha hun” (as of now, I wish to spend my life with her), in an attempt to clarify his intentions. However, this statement only added fuel to the fire. It made many viewers feel awkward. To the public, it looked like he was boasting the bare minimum- that too, on his wife’s face in a condensing tone, publicly! The audience considered this statement unacceptable, particularly in light of his ten-year marriage to Ayeza.
“Filhal” also made people believe that he is just stating that he don’t wish to marry anyone as of now; but he can do in the near future.
People are mad that Pakistani men usually don’t follow other religious practices but yet always seem to be the first to bring up the fact that “Polygamy” is a “sunnah.”
Facebook Comments on the Matter
A small portion of people also seem to support Danish’s ideology and are saying that he only highlighted what is permitted and still wants to spend his entire life with Ayeza Khan.
Which Side to Pick?
The nation is divided- some against Danish while others in favour of him. There is no doubt that “four Marriages” are allowed in Islam, but under what circumstances? Shouldn’t that be a topic of discussion too?
Also, is Danish entirely wrong or just a small clip is being used for engagement purposes. As there is apparently no context being disclosed about the conversation before or after the 1 minute or so in which he shared his views. Should this small clip allow the people to decide how big of a “red flag” Danish is? And most importantly should this topic be a discussion in a Ramadan transmission? Too many questions and differing perspectives clearly surround this topic. To each their own side.
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The Indian Premier League (IPL) is known for its glitz, glamour, and intense competition, but it also comes with strict rules. England’s Harry Brook is now facing the consequences of one such rule.
After pulling out of the IPL for the second year in a row, Brook is reportedly staring at a two-year ban from the tournament. The decision has sparked debate, but fellow England all-rounder Moeen Ali believes it’s fair.
Why Was Harry Brook Banned?
Harry Brook was snapped up by Delhi Capitals for INR 6.25 crore in the IPL 2024 auction. However, he later withdrew from the tournament, just like he did last season. This didn’t sit well with the IPL authorities.
According to reports, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) officially informed both Brook and the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) about the two-year ban. A spokesperson explained that all players were made aware of this policy before registering for the auction, making Brook’s situation clear-cut.
“It’s a policy set by the board, and each player has to oblige to it,” the spokesperson stated.
Moeen Ali Backs the Decision
While some may see the two-year ban as harsh, Moeen Ali believes it’s a necessary rule to maintain fairness in the league.
“It’s not [harsh] though, I kinda agree with it,” Moeen said during a podcast when asked about the decision.
The Chennai Super Kings all-rounder pointed out that late withdrawals cause chaos for teams, forcing them to make last-minute changes.
“A lot of people do that [withdraw]. People have done it in the past, and then they come back in and end up getting a better financial package or whatever it is,” he explained.
Moeen emphasized that Delhi Capitals had to scramble to find a replacement, which isn’t ideal for any team.
“It’s messed his team up. Any team that loses Harry Brook is messed up a bit, and they’ve got to now rejig everything,” he added.
He also clarified that the IPL rule does allow exceptions for injuries or personal reasons, but if a player pulls out without a valid excuse, they must face the consequences.
Is the Ban Fair?
From the IPL’s perspective, the ban makes sense. Teams invest heavily in players, and last-minute withdrawals leave them in a tough spot. The rule was introduced to maintain stability, and Brook’s case is an example of its enforcement.
For Brook, though, this is a major setback. The young English batter is highly rated, and missing two IPL seasons could impact his T20 career and market value. As of now, Brook hasn’t responded to reports of his ban.
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Another match, another disappointing result for Pakistan in the ongoing T20I series against New Zealand. But this time, there were glimpses of fight. The Men in Green showed improvement from their previous game, yet New Zealand comfortably chased down 135 in a rain-affected 15-over contest in Dunedin, winning by five wickets with 11 balls to spare.
A Better Performance, But Still Not Enough
Pakistan’s batting woes continued, as early wickets put them under pressure once again after they were invited to bat first.
Captain Salman Ali Agha and Irfan Khan tried to rebuild, but New Zealand’s Ish Sodhi turned the game with a double strike in the seventh over, dismissing both Irfan (11) and Khushdil Shah (2) in quick succession.
Despite the setbacks, Agha played a responsible knock, scoring 46 off 28 balls to anchor the innings. Shadab Khan chipped in with 24, while a late 22-run cameo from Shaheen Afridi gave Pakistan something to defend.
But was 135 ever going to be enough? Not against a power-packed New Zealand batting lineup.
New Zealand Dismantle Pakistan
Pakistan needed early wickets, but the Kiwis had other plans. Tim Seifert and Finn Allen exploded out of the blocks, smashing 66 runs for the first wicket.
Seifert’s 45 off 22 balls set the tone before he fell to Mohammad Ali, who claimed his maiden T20I wicket. Allen, however, kept going, hammering a 16-ball 38 before Jahandad Khan got the breakthrough.
Pakistan fought back in the middle overs. Haris Rauf dismissed Jimmy Neesham (14), while Khushdil Shah removed Mark Chapman for just one.
At 97-4, Pakistan sniffed a comeback, but Daryl Mitchell and Mitchell Hay calmly guided New Zealand home. Haris struck again to remove Mitchell (14), but by then, it was too little, too late.
Skipper Michael Bracewell and Hay ensured New Zealand crossed the finish line with ease.
Salman Ali Agha’s Honest Assessment
After the game, Salman Ali Agha acknowledged the team’s improvement but stressed the need for better execution.
“It was freezing. But it was a better game than the last one. Our batting improved, and fielding was outstanding. Bowling was good in patches, but we need to adapt to the different bounce here,” Agha said in the post-match conference.
He pointed out Pakistan’s struggles in the powerplay—both with the bat and ball. “After the powerplay, we bowled well, and Haris bowled brilliantly. But we need to improve in the powerplay as a bowling unit and as a batting unit,” he added.
Pakistan showed signs of progress, but the same issues persist—a fragile batting order, inconsistent bowling, and an inability to seize key moments.
With the series slipping away, can Pakistan bounce back in the next game? Or will New Zealand continue to dominate? Pakistan fans will be hoping for a turnaround before it’s too late.
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Mohammad Hafeez has found himself at the center of controversy after his recent comments on Pakistan’s cricketing legacy from the 1990s sparked backlash.
However, the former all-rounder has now come forward to clarify his stance, insisting that his remarks were misrepresented by the media and never intended as an attack on any individual player.
Hafeez’s comments surfaced in the wake of Pakistan’s disastrous 2025 ICC Champions Trophy campaign, where the team failed to win a single game and crashed out in the group stage.
The criticism directed at him intensified when he pointed out that Pakistan’s legendary cricketers from the 1990s failed to deliver an ICC trophy despite their undeniable talent.
What Did Mohammad Hafeez Actually Say?
Mohammad Hafeez acknowledged the greatness of the cricketers from the ‘90s but emphasized that their legacy was incomplete because they didn’t win a major ICC event after the 1992 World Cup victory.
“I am a big admirer of the cricketers from the 1990s, but when we talk about legacy, it’s clear they didn’t bring home an ICC trophy,” Hafeez explained.
“They played in the 1996, 1999, and 2003 World Cups, and despite strong performances, we couldn’t cross the finish line. The 1999 final was the closest we came, but that loss was a big one.”
Hafeez also highlighted how Pakistan’s title-winning campaign in the 2009 T20 World Cup under Younis Khan’s captaincy finally provided a breakthrough moment, inspiring future generations.
Media Misrepresentation? Hafeez Hits Back
Following the backlash, Mohammad Hafeez took to social media to set the record straight, saying his comments were about Pakistan’s inability to win ICC tournaments during that period—not a personal attack on any player.
“Some media houses are fabricating the actual content. The context of the discussion was all about teams winning ICC events to inspire future generations,” Hafeez tweeted.
“I explained how the greats of Pakistan cricket, despite all their talent, couldn’t win ICC events post-‘92 in 1996, 1999, and 2003. It was never meant as personal criticism of any individual player,” he added.
Hafeez’s remarks have sparked a broader debate on legacy and success in cricket. While individual brilliance is celebrated, trophies define eras. The 1990s saw some of Pakistan’s greatest cricketers, but the team couldn’t translate their dominance into silverware on the world stage.
The question now is: Should legacy be judged solely by ICC trophies, or is consistent excellence enough? As always, in Pakistan cricket, opinions are divided.
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Suspect Armaghan’s father, Kamran Qureshi, was thrown out of the courtroom after a heated argument with his son during the hearing of the Mustafa Amir murder case at the Anti-Terrorism Court. The argument started when Armaghan’s lawyer, Advocate Abid Zaman Khan, refused to represent him, stating he had no understanding with Kamran Qureshi. Armaghan distanced himself from his father, saying, “I don’t want to meet my father; I won’t talk to him.”
The situation escalated as Kamran Qureshi caused a disturbance, telling his son to leave him if he did not consider him his father. As the argument intensified, the court ordered police officers to remove Kamran from the premises. The court then extended Armaghan’s physical remand until March 24 in both the Mustafa Amir murder case and the journalist firing case. A progress report has been summoned at the next hearing.
Earlier, in a major development, the court included Armaghan’s confessional statement in the prosecution file. He admitted to living alone in a rented bungalow in Defence for two years, running a call centre with 30 to 40 male and female staff members. Armaghan also revealed that customs authorities arrested him at the airport in 2019 for attempting to smuggle weed from Canada. He also admitted to facing multiple cases in Karachi’s Gizri, Clifton, Darakhshan and Boat Basin police stations.
The Mustafa Amir murder case has now taken a new turn. The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) is probing financial links related to the accused, while the Anti-Narcotics Force (ASF) is investigating his involvement in the illegal drug trade. Mustafa Amir was kidnapped and allegedly murdered by his friends in Karachi’s Defence Housing Authority (DHA) on January 6. Police state that his friends stuffed his body in the trunk of his car and set it on fire in the Hub area of Balochistan. The case has drawn significant public attention, with authorities expanding their investigation.
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